The
Battle of Karnal (February 24, 1739), was a decisive victory for
Nader Shah, the
Shah of the Iranian
Afsharid dynasty during his invasion of Mughal
India. The Shah's forces defeated the army of
Muhammad Shah within three hours, despite being heavily outnumbered (six-to-one), paving the way for the Persian
sack of Delhi. The enormous plunder gained in Delhi caused Nader to issue an imperial decree removing all taxes for a total of three years. The engagement is considered the crowning jewel in Nader's military career as well as a tactical masterpiece. The battle took place near
Karnal, north of
Delhi, India.