Yaqut Khan
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Yaqut Khan | |
|---|---|
| Died | January 1775 |
| Employer | Durrani Empire |
| Known for | Afghan eunuch |
Yaqut Khan (died 1775) was an Afghan eunuch to Afghan Emperor Ahmad Shah Durrani during the 18th century. He is known for supporting Timur Shah Durrani during his conflict with his elder brother, Sulaiman. He later attempted in a conspiracy to assassinate Timur Shah, which failed, resulting in his own execution.
Upon the death of Ahmad Shah Durrani, his declared heir, Timur Shah Durrani, was not favored by Shah Wali Khan, who instead preferred Timur's elder brother, Sulaiman. Sulaiman ascended the throne despite opposition from other Durrani nobles. To prevent word of Ahmad Shah's death getting out, Ahmad Shah's lifeless body was placed on a litter with tall thick curtains. Shah Wali then stated to nobles after arriving at Kandahar, that Ahmad Shah was ill, and that nobody should disturb him. Yaqut Khan, the chief eunuch, brought food for the king to keep up a facade.[1]
However, Yaqut Khan, secretly holding loyalties to Timur Shah Durrani, sent a confidential letter that informed him of Sulaiman's usurpation of the throne. Timur Shah was enraged and immediately assembled an army, marching onwards to Kandahar. Upon reaching Farah, support for Sulaiman's faction quickly dissipated. Shah Wali Khan, alongside Sadar Jahan Khan, arrived at Timur's camp pleading for mercy. Timur Shah, who was incensed that they did not allow him to see his father's deathbed, executed them. As a result, Sulaiman fled to India, while Timur Shah entered Kandahar, being crowned.[2]