Umar Shaikh Mirza II

Umar Shaikh Mirza II, born in the year one thousand four hundred fifty-six, was a prominent Timurid ruler of the Fergana Valley. As the fourth son of Abu Sa'id Mirza, he belonged to a lineage that governed vast territories encompassing present-day Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and eastern Iran.

His marital life was marked by his union with Qutlugh Nigar Khanum, a princess from the Chagatai Khanate and daughter of Yunus Khan of Moghulistan, who served as his chief consort. Umar Shaikh's family expanded with two additional wives, resulting in three sons and five daughters. His eldest son, Babur Mirza, would go on to establish the Mughal Empire in one thousand five hundred twenty-six, becoming the first Mughal Emperor of India.

Tragically, Umar Shaikh's life was cut short in a freak accident at Aksi fort in Fergana on the tenth of June, one thousand four hundred ninety-four. The incident occurred when the dovecote he was in collapsed, leading to the unexpected ascension of his eleven-year-old son, Babur, as the ruler of Fergana.

Babur later reflected on his father's devout nature, noting that Umar Shaikh was a dedicated Muslim who consistently observed the five daily prayers, embodying the spiritual values of his time.