Jaichand, also known as Jayachandra, was a king of Kannauj, a city in present-day Uttar Pradesh, India. He ruled from around 1170 to 1194 CE. Jaichand is known for his role in the defeat of the famous Indian king Prithviraj Chauhan.
According to historical accounts, Jaichand was ambitious and sought to expand his kingdom. He allied with the Muslim invader Muhammad Ghori and hoped to use him to defeat his rivals, including Prithviraj Chauhan.
In 1191 CE, Prithviraj Chauhan and Muhammad Ghori clashed in the Battle of Tarain. Prithviraj emerged victorious, but Muhammad Ghori managed to escape. Jaichand, who had promised to support Prithviraj in the battle, did not send his army to help him. Some accounts suggest that Jaichand may have even secretly supported Muhammad Ghori.
In 1192 CE, Muhammad Ghori returned and defeated Prithviraj Chauhan in the Second Battle of Tarain. Jaichand's role in the battle is unclear, but some accounts suggest that he may have provided Muhammad Ghori with information about Prithviraj's army.
After Prithviraj's defeat, Jaichand became a vassal of Muhammad Ghori. However, he soon rebelled against the Muslim ruler and was defeated in battle. Jaichand was captured and executed by Muhammad Ghori in 1194 CE.
Jaichand's actions are still a subject of debate among historians. Some consider him a traitor who betrayed his fellow Indian king, while others argue that he was simply a strategic ruler who sought to expand his power.