The Akbarī Generations 33.4

33.4

When the Emperor arrived at Thánesar, there was an assemblage of Jogís and Sannyásís on the banks of a lake called Kurkhet. This is a sacred place of the brahmans, and on occasion of eclipses the people of Hindústán flock thither from all parts to bathe. There was a great assemblage there on this occasion, and the people were bestowing their gifts of gold and silver, and jewels and stuffs, upon the brahmans. Many of them threw themselves into the water, and the Jogís and Sannyásís were gathering a rich harvest from their charity. In consequence of a feud which existed between these two sects, they came to the Emperor, seeking permission to settle it by fighting. The Sannyásís were between two and three hundred in number, and the Jogís, who wear only rags, were over five hundred. When the adversaries stood ready to begin the fray, by the Emperor's order, some soldiers smeared their persons with ashes, and went to support the Sannyásís, who were the weaker party. A fierce fight ensued, and many were killed. The Emperor greatly enjoyed the sight. At length the Jogís were defeated, and the Sannyásís were the victors.