The correct option is (a).
Explanation
Sher Shah Suri (1540–1545) was the founder of the Suri Empire in North India. His rise to power marked a temporary interruption in the Mughal rule, achieved through military successes against the second Mughal Emperor, Humayun.
Statement 1 is Correct:
Sher Shah Suri, originally named Farid, was the son of a petty jagirdar (Hasan Khan) of Sasaram in Bihar. He began his administrative career by managing his father's small territory (jagir) in Bihar. His effective management and administrative reforms at the local level laid the foundation for his later governance of the empire.
Statement 2 is Incorrect:
In the Battle of Kannauj (also known as the Battle of Bilgram) in 1540, Sher Shah Suri decisively defeated the Mughal Emperor Humayun. This defeat forced Humayun to flee India and live in exile for 15 years. Prior to this, Sher Shah had also defeated Humayun in the Battle of Chausa (1539).
Key Takeaway:
Sher Shah Suri defeated Humayun in two major battles: Chausa (1539) and Kannauj (1540), leading to the establishment of the Suri Dynasty.