Ghabdula Chelbir

Ghabdula Chelbir Mustansir (or only Chelbir; Persian: عبدالله چلبير ^{[citation needed]}, romanized: Abdullah Chalbir, Tatar: Ğabdulla Çəlber) was the ruler of Volga Bulgaria from 1178 to 1225.^[1] He was the son of Otak. During the reign of Chelbir, Volga Bulgaria strengthened its economy and military. Over his reign, the capital moved from Bolghar to Bilär.

Ghabdula Chelbir عبدالله چلبير
Khan of Volga Bulgaria Emir of the Bulgars
Reign	1178 - 1225
Died	1225
Father	Otak
Religion	Sunni Islam

War with the Mongols

Main article: Battle of Samara Bend

Further information: Mongol invasion of Volga Bulgaria

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.

See also

• List of rulers of Volga Bulgaria