Medieval Indian Mercenaries: Roles, Impact, and Influence Across Foreign Lands
Medieval Indian mercenaries significantly shaped warfare beyond the subcontinent, serving in the Islamic Caliphates, Central Asia, Southeast Asia, and even Europe. From their vital roles in the Ghaznavid and Timurid empires to their impact on Southeast Asian and Byzantine military strategies, these Indian soldiers brought unique skills and innovations to foreign armies. This exploration highlights their contributions, the economic and political motivations behind their service, and the lasting legacy they left in global military history.