Reign 1178 - 1225 Religion Islam Parents Otyak | Father Otak Died 1225 | |
Ghabdula Chelbir (or only Chelbir) was ruler of Volga Bulgaria from 1178 to 1225. He was the son of Otak. During the reign of Chelbir, Volga Bulgaria strengthened its economy and military. Over his reign, the state extended from the Caspian Sea to the Arctic Ocean and the capital moved from Bolghar to Bilär.
War with the Mongols
The Battle of Samara Bend was the first battle between Volga Bulgaria and the Mongols, probably one of the first large battles the Mongols lost. It took place in autumn 1223, at the southern border of Volga Bulgaria. The Bulgars retreated and the Mongols pursued them. Then the main Bulgar forces ambushed the Mongols.
References
Ghabdula Chelbir Wikipedia(Text) CC BY-SA