Horseman right, holding standard, Nagari legend: Cha Sri Samanta Deva / Bull facing left, trident on the bull, Nagari legend above: Sri Ananga Devah. 17mm, 3.10 grams. Mint of Delhi, Tye #44.2.

The Chauhans (Chahamanas) were a powerful Rajput dynasty who ruled parts of Rajasthan and Haryana and rose to prominence in Delhi and Ajmer during the 12th century. Their most famous ruler was Prithviraj Chauhan (r. c. 1177–1192), known for consolidating power around Delhi, resisting raids by neighboring kingdoms, and expanding Chauhan influence in northern India. The dynasty is best remembered for its conflicts with the Ghurid Empire, culminating in the battles of Tarain (1191 and 1192). After Prithviraj’s defeat in 1192, Ghurid control expanded into Delhi, but minor Chauhan branches continued to rule smaller territories for centuries afterward.