In the early 18th century, a powerful movement for Afghan independence began to take shape under the leadership of Mirwais Khan Hotak, an influential tribal leader from Kandahar. His rebellion against the Safavid Empire not only challenged Persian dominance but also gave rise to the short-lived yet impactful Hotak dynasty. Mirwais Hotak’s resistance is celebrated as one of the earliest and most significant uprisings in Afghanistan’s history, setting the stage for future struggles for sovereignty.
Who Was Mirwais Hotak?
Mirwais Khan Hotak (1673–1715) belonged to the Ghilji tribe of Pashtuns in Kandahar. Known as Mirwais Nika or Mirwais Baba—terms of deep respect in Pashto—he was a wealthy, wise, and respected tribal leader. His charisma and political acumen allowed him to unite various tribes under a common cause: freedom from Safavid rule.
The Safavid Occupation of Kandahar
During this period, Kandahar was under Safavid control, with George XI of Kartli, also known as Gurgin Khan, appointed as the Persian governor. Although initially trusted, George’s harsh governance—marked by oppression, forced allegiance, and mistreatment of local Afghan leaders—ignited resentment among the population.
Despite the Ghilji tribe’s loyalty, George’s policies alienated them. The final spark came when he demanded Mirwais’s daughter as a concubine, a blatant act of humiliation. Mirwais, recognizing the urgent need for liberation, began to secretly orchestrate a rebellion.
Strategic Maneuvering at the Safavid Court
Mirwais’s journey to power was as much political as it was military. Arrested and sent to Isfahan on charges of conspiracy, Mirwais skillfully cleared his name and gained influence at the Safavid court. He obtained permission for a pilgrimage to Mecca, where he sought religious justification for rebellion. He asked:
- “Is it lawful for Muslims to rise against oppression?”
- “Can allegiance to a heretic ruler be nullified if he breaks his covenant?”
Both questions received affirmative answers from religious scholars, bolstering his cause upon return.
The Kandahar Rebellion of 1709
Upon returning to Kandahar, Mirwais Hotak laid the foundation for a well-coordinated uprising:
Key Events:
- Deception and Planning: To distract George, Mirwais sent a decoy disguised as his daughter.
- Elimination of George XI: He invited the Georgian leader to a banquet and assassinated him.
- Seizure of Kandahar: Wearing the armor of slain Georgians, Mirwais and his forces entered Kandahar, killed the guards, and opened the gates for the Afghan fighters.
Mobilizing the Afghan People
Mirwais addressed the people of Kandahar with a powerful call to freedom:
“If there are any amongst you who have not the courage to enjoy this precious gift of liberty… let him go in search of some new tyrant.”
This speech galvanized the population. Tribal leaders unanimously granted Mirwais executive powers to lead their new independent state.
Consolidation of Power and Defense
Within days, Mirwais faced retaliation from 600 Georgian troops returning from a campaign. Using superior tactics, he ambushed them near Kandahar, inflicting heavy casualties and further solidifying his control.
The Persian court, fearing an extended rebellion and potential Mughal alliance, attempted diplomacy. However, Mirwais refused all proposals to reinstate Persian control, including imprisoning the emissary Jani Khan and rejecting the advances of Muhammad Khan, signaling that Afghanistan would no longer bow to foreign rule.
Legacy of the Hotak Dynasty
Although Mirwais Hotak died in 1715, his legacy lived on through the Hotak dynasty, which continued the fight for independence. The dynasty eventually extended its influence into Persia, even capturing Isfahan at one point, though it was short-lived.
Mirwais Baba remains a national hero in Afghanistan. His strategic foresight, leadership, and unwavering stand against oppression serve as a timeless example of patriotism and courage.
Conclusion
The rebellion of Mirwais Hotak against the Safavid Empire was more than a local uprising—it was a revolutionary movement that reshaped Afghan history. His defiance against tyranny, coupled with strategic intelligence and grassroots mobilization, not only liberated Kandahar but also inspired future generations of Afghans to fight for sovereignty. Today, Mirwais Hotak is remembered as a symbol of national pride and the father of Afghan independence.