Today marks the 254th anniversary of the passing of Ahmad Shah Durrani, the founder of modern Afghanistan
Exactly 254 years ago today, Ahmad Shah Durrani, widely known as Ahmad Shah Baba, passed away. He is regarded as the founder of modern Afghanistan and the first Afghan ruler to establish a vast empire extending from Khorasan to northern India.
Ahmad Shah Durrani came to power in 1747 following the death of Nader Shah Afshar. Through his leadership, wisdom, and political skill, he united various Afghan tribes and expanded his rule far beyond the borders of present-day Afghanistan.
At its height, the Durrani Empire included all of present-day Afghanistan, large parts of present-day Pakistan and Kashmir, the Punjab region of India, and territories in eastern Iran, including Mashhad and Khorasan. His victory over the Marathas in the historic Third Battle of Panipat further strengthened his influence in the region.
After approximately 25 years of rule, Ahmad Shah Durrani passed away in June 1772 following an illness and was buried in his native city of Kandahar.
Today, the Mausoleum of Ahmad Shah Baba in Kandahar remains one of Afghanistan’s most significant historical landmarks, attracting visitors from across the country and abroad.