History of Junagadh begins with its foundation in 1654 by the founder of Babi dynasty, Muhammad Sher Khan Babai. Usman Khan Babi was directly related to Usmankhel’s clan. Sher Khan Babi was Usman Khan’s son as well as the Mughal governor of Gujarat Subah. The state went on to become a part of the Kathiawar Political Agency during British Raj surrounded by Barda, Halar, Gohelwar and Arabian Sea. The Babai pashtuns of Junagadh were responsible for extending the kingdom in southern parts of Saurashtra. The capital town Junagadh was known for Girnar Mountain, Jain temples, Veraval port and Somnath temple. Rivers like Bhadar and Saraswati ran across this province, providing a rich source of water for irrigation.

Decline of Mughal Empire

After the Mughal Empire started losing its power, Junagadh state was being ruled by the local Mohammad Mahabat Khanji I. During this time, the Gaekwad dynasty of the Maratha Empire also wanted to reign over the territories in Gujarat. Mohammad Khan Bahadur Khanji I fought against the Mughal governor of Gujarat subah which allowed the Babi to retain control over Junagadh.

Marathas and British Raj

Junagadh rulers continued reigning over this territory for the next 200 years by paying tributes to the Maratha Empire. Finally, in 1807, Junagadh princely state became a British Protectorate after the 2^nd Anglo Maratha War. Mohammad Hamid Khanji I was the ruler of Junagadh state during this time. In 1818, the state became a part of the Kathiawar Agency of British India. Junagadh Princely state received a 13 gun salute from the British.

Post Independence

There was a big turning point in the History of Junagadh after India’s Independence. Muhammad Mahabat Khanji III was the last ruler of the state who wanted to be a part of Pakistan. Shah Nawaz Bhutto was appointed as the state’s prime minister in May 1947. On 13^th September 1947, the Government of Pakistan accepted the accession. But, the state was home to several Hindu families who revolted against the king’s decision. The state government fell which resulted in a plebiscite and Junagadh State, finally became a part of India. Nawab Muhammad Mahabat Khan III of Junagadh decided to live in Sindh, Pakistan.