Tis Hazari is a historic neighbourhood in Old Delhi, India, that is renowned for its significant role in the country's past. The area is home to the Tis Hazari Courts Complex, one of the six District Courts that function under the Delhi High Court. The name Tis Hazari, which translates to thirty thousand, is derived from the historic Battle of Delhi in 1783, and the story behind the name is a fascinating one.

The Story Behind the Name 

In 1783, military general Baghel Singh led a force of 30,000 Sikhs who encamped in Tis Hazari, just south of the Northern Ridge. The Sikhs were preparing for the Battle of Delhi against the Mughals, which took place shortly after. The Sikhs defeated the Mughals in the Battle of Delhi and went on to capture the Red Fort. This victory was a significant moment in the country's history and led to the establishment of Sikh rule in Delhi.

After the Battle of Delhi, Baghel Singh and his troops moved on to capture Saharanpur, which Najib ud-Daulah, the Ruhila chief, ruled. They overran Najib ud-Daulah's territory, acquiring from him a tribute of eleven lakhs of rupees (INR 1,100,000). Baghel Singh and his troops then crossed the Yamuna to occupy the country, which was then ruled by Zabita Khan, the son and successor of Najib ud-Daulah.

Zabita Khan, in desperation, offered Baghel Singh a large sum of money and proposed an alliance to jointly plunder the crown lands. Baghel Singh declined the proposal and chose to establish an octroi-post near Sabzi Mandi for the purpose of collecting taxes on imported goods instead. He used the tax collected to finance the search and construction of Sikh Temples, and he did not want to use the cash received from the government treasury for. Most of the government funds were distributed to the needy and poor. Baghel Singh often distributed sweetmeats bought out of this government gift to the Congregationalists at the place now known as the Pul Mithai.

The Inauguration of Tis Hazari Courts Complex 

On March 19, 1958, Chief Justice Mr. A.N. Bhandari of the then Punjab High Court inaugurated the Tis Hazari Courts Complex. At that time, Delhi was under the jurisdiction of the High Court of Punjab, and Tis Hazari was the principal court complex in Delhi since the city only consisted of one district. However, with time, courts were shifted out to other complexes. Presently, the Tis Hazari Courts Complex houses courts having jurisdiction over Central Delhi and West Delhi.

Tis Hazari is a historically significant neighbourhood in Delhi, India, with a fascinating story behind its name. The Battle of Delhi in 1783, led by Baghel Singh and his 30,000 Sikh troops, played a vital role in the establishment of Sikh rule in the city. The Tis Hazari Courts Complex was inaugurated in 1958, and it continues to be one of the principal court buildings in Delhi. The area is a testament to India's rich cultural and historical heritage, and its story serves as a reminder of the bravery and courage of its people.