MAHARAJA RANJIT SINGH AND RETURN OF THE KOH-I-NOOR DIAMOND (ANIMATED)

The Koh-I-Noor, once the largest diamond in the world, has a storied 5,000-year journey intertwined with the fates of empires. Mined in ancient India, the legendary gem was looted by Iranian-Afghani ruler Nadir Shah in the 14th century, passing to Afghan royalty. Maharaja Ranjit Singh, ruler of the wealthy Sikh Empire, ingeniously retrieved the diamond for India by rescuing Afghan prince Shah Shuja under the promise of the stone. But Shuja deceitfully claimed Koh-I-Noor lost. Through clever diplomacy and spies, Ranjit Singh ultimately succeeded in reclaiming India’s crown jewel in the 19th century. Yet this was not the end of Koh-I-Noor’s epic travels, as it later passed to the British during colonial rule. Today, the mythic diamond remains a prize possession of Queen Elizabeth II, a reminder of bygone eras of conquest and cunning on the global stage.

THE STONE THAT HIT MAHARAJA RANJIT SINGH (ANIMATED)

This 3D animated tale illuminates a defining moment in the life of 19th century Punjab emperor Maharaja Ranjit Singh, showcasing his wisdom and generosity of spirit.

While riding atop an elephant through the capital city of Lahore after a victory celebration, Ranjit Singh was struck on the forehead by a stone thrown from behind a wall. Though he sustained an injury, the Maharaja demonstrated immense grace. Rather than punish the culprits, he pensioned the family who occupied the home near the wall, recognizing they acted out of poverty. His merciful response exemplified true leadership.