Misl is a term which originated in the eighteenth-century history of the Sikhs to describe a unit or brigade of Sikh warriors and the territory acquired by it during its campaign.

At  the tender age of 12, Ranjit Singh was thrust into the role of leader of the Sukerchakia Misl following the death of his father, Maha Singh in 1792. Having survived many attempts on his life by rival Misl leaders through luck, bravery and, most all cunningness, he was able to unify all 12 Misls before his 21st birthday,  Pivotal to this unification was the capture of Lahore in 1799; an event that marked the foundational moment for the establishment of the Sikh Empire. It was from this victory that Ranjit Singh embarked on a series of military campaigns that expanded his dominion across Punjab and beyond.

One of Ranjit Singh’s most significant achievements was the unification of Punjab.  His vision of a consolidated and strong state resonated with the aspirations of his people, no matter what their faith.  He successfully negotiated alliances with other kingdoms, and engaged in strategic warfare against both British and Afghan forces; with each victory solidifying his rule.

In this artwork 12 Misl leaders from 1797 pose proudly in their regal attire and high battle standards:

The Sukerchakia Misl led by Ranjit Singh himself, Tara Singh (Dallewalia), Jassa Singh (Ramgarhia), Baghel Singh (Karor Singhia), Sada Kaur (Kanhaiya), Lehna Singh (Bhangi), Bagh Singh (Ahluwalia), Budh Singh (Singhpuria), Sahib Singh (Patiala), Gulab Singh (Shaheed), Gian Singh (Nakai) and Daya Kaur (Nishanwalia) are all present, each symbolising a part of the once-fractured Sikh Confederacy.