Ala Singh

Ala Singh (1691 – 7 August 1765) was the founder and first ruler of Patiala from 1763 until his death in 1765. Born into the Sikh Phulkian dynasty, Singh rose to power through key battles in his early life and expanded his territory in Punjab. As an adult, Singh was constantly engaged in battles and war. Through warfare and diplomacy, Singh began to acquire territory that would form the foundations of Patiala State. In 1763, he established the city of Patiala and founded Patiala State. Singh, at various times, had both adversarial and allied relations with the Afghan Durrani Empire. Ahmed Shah Durrani, the King of the Durrani Empire, granted Singh the title of Raja and other royal powers. After being granted the title of Raja, Singh became the first Sikh monarch in history. Much of his personal success has been attributed to the influence and connections of his wife, Mai Fatto.

Singh was praised and criticised, both by his contemporaries and historians, for his shrewd and cunning policies and strategies. Many in the Dal Khalsa recognized his strength and pragmatism; however, they found him to be an unworthy Sikh, and clashes with the Dal Khalsa persisted throughout Singh's adult life. Singh's reign ended with his death in 1765, and he was succeeded by his grandson, Amar Singh.