[Pramāṇa](https://indike.org/pramana/) › [Indian literature](https://indike.org/pramana/in) › [Dark Ages](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages) › [General histories](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general) › [Tārīkh-i Firishta](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta) › [History of the Rise of the Mahomedan Power in India (Briggs)](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs) › 35 # Firishta's History (Gulshan-i Ibrāhīmī) 35: JULAL-OOD-DEEN FEROZE KHILJY. History of the Rise of the Mahomedan Power in India (Briggs) 35 - **Language:** English ## Contents - [35.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.1) — 8 parts - [35.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.2) — 9 parts - [35.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.3) — 9 parts - [35.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.4) — 7 parts - [35.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.5) — 9 parts ### JULAL-OOD-DEEN FEROZE KHILJY. ### [35.1.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.1.1) Origin of the tribe of Khiljy — Julal-ood-Deen puts to death the Prince Keiomoors. — Measures taken to form a new ministry. — The King affects remorse for his conduct, and respect for the late dynasty. — Manners of the court. — Encouragement to men of letters. — A relative of the late King sets up claims to the throne — is defeated, but pardoned, and an estate conferred on him. — The King's lenity reprobated by his clansmen — its ill effects. — Arrival of one Siddy Mowla, a religious fanatic — engages in a conspiracy against the King — Trial and execution of Siddy Mowla. — Public and domestic calamities of this period ascribed, by the writers of the times, to arise out of the death of Siddy Mowla. — Revolt at Runtunbhore. — The King marches against it — relinquishes the siege — is reproached by his minister. — 100,000 Moguls invade Hindoostan — are defeated by the King in person. — The Moguls suffered to retreat without molestation. — Oghloo Khan and 3000 Moguls enter the King's service, and embrace the faith of Islam. — Quarters in the city of Dehly assigned to them. — Mogulpoora built. — Mullik Alla-ood-Deen, the King's nephew, takes Bhilsa in Malwa — receives great honours, and addition to his estates — leads the first Mahomedan army into the Dekkan. — Dewgur besieged. — The Raja pays tribute. — Return of Alla-ood-Deen — good conduct of his army in its retreat. ### [35.1.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.1.2) — The King is led to suspect that Alla-ood-Deen has designs on the throne — is warned both by his Queen and his minister against him. — The King marches to Gualiar to meet his nephew, and to ascertain his real views — is deceived by Alla-ood-Deen — retires to Dehly. — Alla-ood-Deen leads his army to his estate of Kurra. — Almas Beg, the brother of Alla-ood-Deen, employed by him to effect a reconciliation, and to bring the King to Kurra. — Julal-ood-Deen proceeds to meet his nephew — is assassinated. Nizam-ood-Deen Ahmud relates, that he has seen, in some respectable work, that the tribe of Khulich or Kalij, is descended from Khulich Khan, a son-in-law of Chungiz Khan, and that his history is this. Kalij Khan and his wife constantly disagreed, but he was afraid of throwing her off on account of the power of his father-in-law. At length, when Chungiz, having pursued Julal-ood-Deen Khwaruzm Shah to the banks of the Indus, was on his return towards Eeran and Tooran, Kalij Khan, being well acquainted with the mountainous country of Ghoor and Joorjistan, watched his opportunity to throw off his allegiance to Chungiz Khan, and remained with his tribe, amounting to 30,000 families, in those hills. Upon the death of Chungiz Khan, none of his descendants thought fit to persecute Kalij Khan, who remained ever since in those hills; and, as the race of Ghoor was now seated on the throne of India, the Khiljies, on account of their vicinity, went to Dehly in parties, and remained there. ### [35.1.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.1.3) Julal-ood-Deen Khiljy of Dehly, and Sooltan Mahmood Khiljy of Mando, are both descended from Kalij Khan, vulgarly called Khalij Khan, and from him the tribe is called Khiljy. But, according to the author of the Suljook-nama, Toork, the son of Japhet, the son of Noah, had eleven children, one of whom was called Khulich; and from him are descended the Khilchies or Khiljies. I conceive this account the most probable of the two, because the Khiljies are often mentioned in the histories of the kings of Ghizny, particularly in the reigns of Subooktugeen and Sooltan Mahmood; and it is certain, that they existed anterior to the time of Chungiz Khan; but it is possible that Kalij Khan might be of the tribe of Khiljy, and that the father of Julal-ood-Deen, and the ancestor of Sooltan Mahmood of Malwa, may have both been descended in a direct line from him. ### [35.1.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.1.4) Julal-ood-Deen Feroze, at first, preserved, for some months, the young Prince Keiomoors alive, as a cloak to his usurpation; but having established himself firmly in his government, he caused him to be put to death. He was himself seventy years of age when he ascended the throne. He changed the colour of the royal umbrella from red to white, and was guilty of no further acts of cruelty, after the death of the young Prince, but became distinguished for his humanity and benevolence. He had no great confidence in the loyalty of the people of Dehly, and therefore resided at Kelookery, which he strengthened with fortifications, and beautified with fine gardens and terraced walks by the side of the river. The omras, following the King's example, built palaces around, so that Kelookery became known by the name of the new city. Yooghrish Khan, the King's brother, was appointed Aariz-ool-Moomalik: the King's eldest son, Yekhtyar-ood-Deen, received the title of Khan Khanan, and the second son that of Urkully Khan; on each of whom estates were conferred, and they maintained separate establishments. ### [35.1.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.1.5) In like manner the King took under his especial protection his two nephews, Alla-ood-Deen and Almas Beg, the sons of his brother, Shahab-ood-Deen Musaood. He raised the former to high rank in the army, and the latter, who is known under the title of Alugh Khan, was made Master of the Horse (Akhoor Beg). He also appointed his nephew, Mullik Ahmud Hubeeb (his sister's son), to the office of Barbik. Mullik Khoorum was nominated Ameer-i-Dur, Khwaja Khuteer was made Prime Minister, and Fukhr-ood-Deen Mullik-ool-Omra retained his office of Kotwal. The chiefs and nobles of Dehly, who had for sixty years paid obeisance to the throne of the Toorks, and had always revolted at the idea of subjection to the Khiljies, forgot for the moment their wonted animosity to this race, and were so well pleased with the commencement of the reign of Feroze Khiljy, that they resorted to the new city of Dehly, and ranged themselves around his throne. After being well satisfied of the disposition of all classes towards him, the King left Kelookery, and entered old Dehly in great pomp at the head of a splendid retinue. On arriving at the palace, he prostrated himself twice before the threshold, and then having ascended the throne, raised his eyes and hands to heaven, in the sight of the court, and exclaimed with a loud voice, "How shall I ever be able to acquit myself of the gratitude I owe to my God for these great benefits; ### [35.1.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.1.6) who hath raised me to that throne, before which I have been accustomed all my life to bow down, and who hath preferred me to this dignity, while "my compeers, many of whom are equally, and even more deserving, stand around with their arms folded, in token of obedience." From thence he went towards the "Ruby Palace," where he dismounted, as usual, at the outer gate. His nephew, Ahmud Hubeeb, observed, "Now that this palace belongs to your Majesty, why do you dismount at the outer gate." He replied, "Under every circumstance, respect is due to my former Prince and patron Gheias-ood-Deen Bulbun, who inhabited this palace." His nephew Ahmud Hubeeb said, "Your Majesty will, at all events, of course, make it your dwelling." The King answered by saying, "This palace was built by Gheias-ood-Deen Bulbun, when he was only a noble of the state, it is therefore the private property of his family, and I have no right to occupy it." His nephew observing, that "he would find such minute distinctions inconsistent with the great duties of a throne," the King said, "It might be so; but that considering his age, and the few years which, in the course of nature, were allotted to him, he could invade no man's property without compunction of conscience." He accordingly continued to proceed on foot through the several court-yards, and even when he entered the hall of audience, he took a seat on the spot where he was accustomed to stand among the nobles. ### [35.1.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.1.7) He then said, "May God confound the house of Atmeer Kuchun, and Atmeer Soorkha, who, by aiming at my life, compelled me, from motives of self-preservation, to adopt these measures. Had this not been the case, I had still been in my "former station, and God knows how far that removed from the throne of Dehly. I was content to have passed my life with the title of Mullik or Khan, but having attained this elevation, I am now astounded to think how I shall fill it. For since, in spite of the munificence and talents of Gheias-ood-Deen Bulbun and his posterity, they were unable to retain the reins of government in their hands, how shall I be able to support the office to which I am raised. God only knows, how it may fare either with me or my descendants." Some of the nobles of the court, famed for their experience and wisdom, held down their heads, and seemed lost in deep reflection, while others, young and bold, said to each other, "This is a strange sort of a king, who has hardly placed his foot on the throne, but he begins to think on the chance of losing it again. How will he ever bring himself to assume that bold and prompt line of conduct which dares to punish, and seeks to remunerate, when circumstances require him to do so?" In the evening of the same day, the King returned to the new city, where, for the present, he resided; ### [35.1.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.1.8) and shortly after, he bestowed in marriage his two daughters (both remarkable for their beauty) on his nephews, whom he had taken under his protection, viz. Alla-ood-Deen, and Almas Beg, (the latter) entitled Alugh Khan. ### [35.2.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.2.1) Julal-ood-Deen Feroze Khiljy was celebrated during his reign for many amiable qualities, and particularly for his mercy and benevolence. He hardly ever punished a fault among his dependents. and was never known to lay violent hands on the property of his wealthy subjects, as is too often the case with despotic monarchs. He was in the habit of associating familiarly, even after his accession, with his former acquaintances, and joining their parties, and drinking wine in moderation with them, the same as before. The following persons are those whom he honoured with his personal friendship, and who were among his principal private associates:— Mullik-Taj-ood-Deen Koochy. Mullik-Fukhr-ood-Deen Koochy. Mullik-Eiz-ood-Deen Ghoory. Mullik Kurra Beg. Mullik-Noosrut Subbah. Mullik-Ahmud Hubeeb. Mullik-Kumal-ood-Deen, Abool Maaly. Mullik-Nusseer-ood-Deen Kohramy. Mullik-Saad-ood-Deen Muntuky. These persons were distinguished as well for their courage and sense as for their wit and good humour. The following learned men were also frequently admitted to the King's private parties: — Taj-ood-Deen Keraky. Ameer Khoosrow. Khwaja-Hussun. Moveiud Deewana. Ameer Arslan Kulamy. Yekhtyar-ood-Deen Yaghy. Baky Khuteer. All these were distinguished for their erudition, and were authors of works of poetry, of history, or of science. ### [35.2.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.2.2) These parties were usually enlivened by the best singers, such as Ameer Khassa, and Humeed Raja; and the best instrumental performers, such as Mahomed Shah Hutky. Futtoo Shah. Nusseer Khan. Behroze. Ameer Khoosrow hardly allowed a party to take place, without having prepared some new poetry or song for the occasion, for which he was usually rewarded on the spot. During the time Julal-ood-Deen Khiljy held the office of Aariz-ool-Moomalik, in the reign of the late King (Keikobad), he settled a pension on Ameer Khoosrow; but now having appointed him librarian, he was raised to the rank of an ameer, and was permitted to wear white garments, a distinction confined to the blood-royal, and to the nobles of the court. In the second year of his reign, Mullik Jujhoo, the nephew of Gheias-ood-Deen Bulbun, at the instigation of Ameer Ally the master of the robes, who held the government of Oude under the new title of Hatim Khan, assumed royal privileges in his government of Kurra, caused new coin to be struck, and a white canopy to be placed over his head, and proclaimed himself King, under the title of Sooltan Moogheis-ood-Deen. He was joined by most of the nobles of the house of Bulbun, as well as by several rajas of consequence in that quarter. With these reinforcements, he had the boldness to march towards Dehly. ### [35.2.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.2.3) Julal-ood-Deen Feroze, hearing of these events, appointed his son the Prince Arkully Khan, with a select body of Khiljian cavalry, to proceed in advance, himself following with the main army, against the rebels. Arkully Khan encountered the enemy about twenty-five miles from the city, and repulsed them after an obstinate engagement. Several omras were made prisoners during the pursuit, among whom was Ameer Ally, the governor of Oude. These were placed on camels, with boughs of trees hung round their necks, and in that condition sent to his father. When Julal-ood-Deen Feroze saw them, he instantly ordered them to be unbound, to have a change of linen given them, and an entertainment to be provided; and having called them before him, repeated a verse to this purpose: "Evil for evil is easily returned, but he only is great who returns good for evil." They were then commanded to retire, in full assurance of his forgiveness. Jujhoo, some days after, being taken by the zemindars, was sent prisoner to the King, who instead of condemning him to death, as was expected, gave him a free pardon, and sent him to Mooltan, where he had a handsome establishment for life. ### [35.2.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.2.4) The King's lenity was universally condemned by the Khiljy chiefs, who strongly recommended him to adopt the policy of Gheias-ood-Deen Bulbun, never to pardon a traitor. They said, at all events, the rebels should be deprived of sight to deter them from further mischief, and as an example to others. If this were not done, they asserted, that treason would soon raise its head in every quarter of the empire; and, should the Moguls once gain the superiority, they would erase the very name of Khiljy out of Hindoostan. The King answered, that what they said was certainly according to the ordinary rules of policy; but, my friends, said he, "I am now old, and I wish to go down to the grave without shedding more blood." The King's mistaken lenity seems to have soon produced the effect which these chiefs foresaw. Clemency is a virtue which descends from God; but the degenerate children of India of that age did not deserve it. The King's sentiments having become public, no security was any longer found. The streets and highways were infested by thieves and banditti. Housebreaking, robbery, murder, and every other species of crime, was committed by many who adopted them as a means of subsistence. Insurrections prevailed in every province; numerous gangs of freebooters interrupted commerce, and even common intercourse. Add to which, the King's governors neglected to render any account, either of their revenues or of their administration. ### [35.2.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.2.5) The Khiljy chieftains, deeply affected by these proceedings, did not hesitate to refer the whole blame to their sovereign. They even began to consult about deposing him, and raising to the throne Mullik Taj-ood-Deen Koochy, a man of some influence, and of great promptness and resolution. For this purpose they met one day at his house, and, in their cups, began openly to talk of assassinating the King, and even went so far as to dispute which of them should have the glory of striking the blow. While in this situation, one of the company privately withdrew, and, running to Julal-ood-Deen Feroze, repeated circumstantially every particular of what had passed. The King immediately sent a guard to surround the house, which seized the conspirators, and brought them before the King. He upbraided them with their treason, and having drawn his sword, threw it on the ground, and challenged the boldest of them to wield it against him; but they fell on their faces, and remained silent and confounded. One of them, however, Mullik Noosrut, who had more assurance and presence of mind than the rest, told the King, that words uttered by men in a state of intoxication were but as the empty air. "Where shall we ever find," said he, "so good and gracious a sovereign; ### [35.2.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.2.6) or where can the King hope to obtain such faithful servants, should he condemn us for a little unguarded sally?" The King, pleased with this mode of treating the affair, smiling, called for wine, and after giving him a cup with his own hand, dismissed the whole, not without severely reproaching them with their conduct. The execution of the Dervish Siddy Mowla is one of the most remarkable events in this reign. This event has been thus transmitted to us through the histories of Zeea Burny and Sudr Jehan, of Guzerat. ### [35.2.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.2.7) Mullik Fukhr-ood-Deen Kotwal, of Dehly, died about this time. His death reduced to poverty many of the ancient families of the time of Gheias-ood-Deen Bulbun, which he had long supported at his own private expense. Among others, were 10,000 readers of the Koran, and some thousand domestic dependents. All these looked to Siddy Mowla for their maintenance. According to Sheikh Ein-ood-Deen Beejapoory, this holy man, in the character of a religious mendicant, had travelled from Jooijan, in Persia, to the west, where he visited various countries, and had kept company with men famous for piety and learning. He then returned, and eventually came to Hindoostan to visit Sheikh Fureed-ood-Deen, Shukr-Gunj, with whom he resided for some time. In the reign of Gheias-ood-Deen Bulbun, having an inclination to see Dehly, he took leave of his friend, who strenuously advised him to cultivate no intimacy with the great men of the court, telling him, such connection would, in the end, prove fatal to him. Siddy Mowla arrived at Dehly, and instituted an academy, and a house of entertainment for travellers, fakeers, and the poor of all denominations, turning none away from his door. Though very religious, and brought up in the Mahomedan faith, yet he adopted some particular doctrines of his own, which caused him to neglect attendance at public worship. He kept no women, nor slaves, and lived upon rice only; ### [35.2.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.2.8) yet his expences, in charity, were so great, that, as he never accepted of any presents, men were astonished whence his finances were supplied, and actually believed that he understood the science of alchemy. After the death of Gheias-ood-Deen Bulbun, he became still more extravagant, not only bestowing larger sums in charity, but expending more profusely in his entertainments, which were now frequented by all the great men of the city. He made nothing of bestowing 2000 or 3000 pieces of gold to relieve the wants of any noble family in distress. In short, he displayed more magnificence in his feasts than the princes themselves. Some idea may be formed of his charities when we find it asserted, that he expended daily upon the poor, about 1000 maunds of flour, 500 maunds of meat, 200 maunds of sugar, besides rice, oil, butter, and other necessaries in proportion. The populace usually crowded his gates daily in such numbers that it was scarcely possible to pass; besides which, the King's sons, and other princes of the court, resorted to him with their retinues, and spent whole days and nights either in festivity or in philosophical conversation. To these expences (after the death of Fukhr-ood-Deen Kotwal) the Dervish Siddy Mowla added the maintenance of the numerous dependents of the Kotwal. ### [35.2.9](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.2.9) At this time, also, Kazy Jullal-ood-Deen Kashany, a man of intriguing disposition, having obtained the entire confidence of Siddy Mowla, began to inspire the philosopher with views of ambition. He told him, that the people looked on him as sent from God to deliver the kingdom from the tyranny and oppression of the Khiljies, and to bless Hindoostan with a wise and just government. ### [35.3.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.3.1) Siddy Mowla suffered himself to be deluded, and privately began to bestow titles and offices upon his disciples, and to assume a tone and manner sufficiently indicative of his design on the throne. He engaged Meer Mohsun Kotwal and Nutty Pyhlwan, two of his followers, to join in the King's retinue on Friday, as he went to the public mosque, and to assassinate him; while he himself prepared about 10,000 of his adherents to support his usurpation. One of his followers, however, dissatisfied with the part assigned to him in the approaching revolution, went privately to the King, and disclosed the plot. ### [35.3.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.3.2) The King caused both Siddy Mowla and Kazy Julal-ood-Deen Kashany to be apprehended, and brought before him for examination. They persisted in their innocence, and as no other witness appeared against them, the accusation was rendered doubtful. The King, therefore, caused a fire to be prepared in the plain of Bahadurpoor, in order that they might be submitted to the fiery ordeal to purge themselves of their guilt; and having left the city to see the ceremony, he ordered a circle to be railed off round the pile. Siddy Mowla, and the others accused, were then brought, in order that they might walk through the flames to prove their innocence. Having said their prayers, they were just about to plunge into the fire, when the King stopped them, and turning to his ministers, asked, if it was lawful to try Mussulmans by the fiery ordeal? They unanimously declared, that it was the nature of fire to consume, paying no respect to the righteous more than to the wicked; and they also pronounced the practice to be heathenish, and contrary to the Mahomedan law, as well as to reason. ### [35.3.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.3.3) The King now directed Kazy Julal-ood-Deen Kashany to be sent prisoner to Budaoon, and Siddy Mowla to be confined in a vault under the palace, and two other men, who had engaged to perpetrate the King's assassination, to be publicly executed. At the same time, he banished a number of those who were suspected of being accessories. While the police were carrying Siddy Mowla through the court to his prison, the King pointed him out to some Kalendars who stood near the throne, and said, "Behold the man who was projecting such an evil against us. I leave him to be judged by you, according to his deserts." At these words a Kalendar, whose name was Sunjurry, started forth, and running towards the prisoner, began to cut him with a razor. ### [35.3.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.3.4) Siddy Mowla, without offering resistance, entreated him to be more expeditious in sending him to God. He then addressed himself to the King, who was looking over the balcony, and said, "I am rejoiced that you have thought of putting a period to my life at once; yet it is sinful to distress the pious and the innocent; and be assured that my curse will lie heavy upon you and your unfortunate posterity." The King, hearing these words, became pensive and perplexed. His son, the Prince Arkully Khan, who hated Siddy Mowla for the great intimacy which existed between him and his elder brother, Khan Khanan, seeing the Emperor's irresolution, beckoned to an elephant rider, who was in the court ready mounted, to advance, and tread Siddy Mowla to death. Zeea Burny, the author of the history of Julal-ood-Deen Feroze, informs us that he himself was then in Dehly, and that immediately after the death of Siddy Mowla, a black whirlwind arose, which, for the space of half an hour, changed day into night, and drove the people in the streets against one another, so that they could scarce grope their way to their own habitations. The same author relates, that no rain fell in these provinces during that year, A.H. 690; and a famine ensued, by which thousands of Hindoos daily died in the streets and highways, while whole families drowned themselves in the river. ### [35.3.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.3.5) The prosperity of the King began visibly to decline; for every day new factions and disputes arose, which greatly disturbed his administration. Domestic calamities also pressed hard upon him, among which was the illness of his eldest son Khan Khanan. Medicines were of no avail; and the distemper gaining ground, that Prince fell a victim to the disease in a few days. ### [35.3.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.3.6) The King, after the decease of his son, marched his army towards Runtunbhore, to quell an insurrection in those parts, leaving his son Arkully Khan in Dehly, to manage affairs in his absence. The enemy retired into the fort of Runtunbhore, and the King reconnoitred the place, but, despairing of reducing it, marched towards Oojein, which he sacked. At the same time, also, he broke down many of the temples of Malwa, and after plundering them of much wealth, returned to Runtunbhore. He summoned the fort a second time; but finding the Raja paid no attention to his threats, he gave orders to undermine the walls. But again wavering in his resolution, he decamped, saying, that he found the place could not be taken without the loss of many lives, and therefore he would lay aside the design. Mullik Ahmud Hubeeb, his nephew and minister, replied, that kings, in the time of war, should make no account of such things, when compelled to exertion by justice, and the necessity of supporting their authority, as was in this instance plainly the case. The King, becoming angry, observed, "These even may be my own sentiments; but I have often told you," said he, "that being now on the brink of the grave, I am unwilling to entail the curse of widows and orphans upon me in a reign of a few days." He accordingly continued his march to Dehly. ### [35.3.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.3.7) In the year 691, one of the kinsmen of Hoolakoo Khan, grandson of the great Chungiz Khan, invaded Hindoostan with ten tomans of Moguls (a toman signifying 10,000 horse). Julal-ood-Deen Feroze, having received advices of the approach of the enemy, collected his army and moved forward to oppose them. On reaching the frontiers of Beiram, the Moguls were perceived in front beyond a small river. Both armies encamped for the space of five days upon either side of this stream, during which time their advanced posts skirmished frequently, with some losses on either side. At length, as if by mutual consent, they selected an extensive plain on which on the sixth morning they drew up in order of battle, and fought a general action. The Moguls, after an obstinate contest, were defeated, many of their chiefs slain, and about a thousand prisoners taken. Among the latter were two omras, and several officers of distinction. The King, however, did not avail himself of the victory, but granted peace to the invaders, with permission to withdraw from his dominions. The Moguls having gladly accepted these terms, presents were interchanged as tokens of amity. When the Moguls retreated, Oghloo Khan, a grandson of Chungiz Khan, perceiving that he had little chance of power or distinction among the many blood relations of that warrior who were still alive, induced 3000 of his countrymen to join Julal-ood-Deen Feroze, whose daughter was given to him in marriage. ### [35.3.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.3.8) These Moguls all became Mahomedans. The King, about this time, having appointed his son, Arkully Khan, viceroy of Lahore, Mooltan, and Sind, and having left a strong force with him, returned himself to his capital. To Oghloo Khan, and the rest of the Moguls, was allotted a spot near Gheiaspoor, the burial-place of Sheikh Nizam-ood-Deen Owlia, where they settled, and which is called Mogulpoora to this day. In the year 692, the King marched against the Hindoos in the neighbourhood of Mando, and having devastated the country in that vicinity, returned to Dehly. In the mean time, Mullik Alla-ood-Deen, the King's nephew, governor of Kurra, requested permission to attack the Hindoos of Bhilsa, who infested his province. Having obtained leave, he marched in the same year to that place, which he subdued, and having pillaged the country, returned with much spoil, part of which was sent to the King, Among other things there were two brazen idols, which were thrown down before the Budaoon gate of Dehly, to be trodden under foot. Julal-ood-Deen Feroze was much pleased with the success and conduct of his nephew on this expedition, for which he rewarded him with princely presents, and annexed the province of Oude to his former government of Kurra. ### [35.3.9](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.3.9) Alla-ood-Deen, upon this preferment, acquainted the King that there were some princes of great wealth towards Chundery, whom (if the King would give permission) he would reduce. The King was induced to consent to this measure from the account he had learnt of the riches of those rajas; but the object of Alla-ood-Deen appears to have been to establish an independent power. He was narrowly watched, however, by Mullika Jehan, the King's favourite wife, who suspected him of being too ambitious, and warned the King that Alla-ood-Deen aimed eventually at fixing himself in an independent sovereignty in some remote part of India. Accordingly, in the year 695, after taking leave of the King at Dehly, Alla-ood-Deen proceeded towards Kurra, where he enlisted many chiefs of distinction, who had formerly been dependents of the Bulbun family. He then marched with 8000 chosen horse, by the nearest road, against Ram Dew, Raja of the Deccan, who possessed the wealth of a long line of kings. ### [35.4.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.4.1) Alla-ood-Deen arriving on the Deccan frontier, pressed forward towards the capital. The first place of any consequence which he reached was Elichpoor, where having made a short halt to refresh his army, he moved by forced marches to Dewgur, the lower town of which was not entirely fortified, the outer wall being then incomplete. When the news of Alla-ood-Deen's progress reached the Raja, he, together with his son Shunkul Dew, was absent in a distant part of his dominions: the Raja hastened his return, and endeavoured to intercept the enemy with a numerous army. For this purpose, he threw himself between Alla-ood-Deen and the city, and opposed him with great gallantry, but was eventually defeated with severe loss. This expedition is otherwise related in the Moolhikat, and in the Tubkat Nasiry, by contemporary authors. Alla-ood-Deen (say these writers) left Kurra Manukpoor on pretence of hunting, and having passed quietly through the territories of many petty rajas, purposely avoided all hostilities; giving out that he had left his uncle, the King, in disgust, and was going to offer his services to the Raja of Rajmundry, one of the rajas of Tulingana. Accordingly, after a march of two months, he arrived without any remarkable opposition at Elichpoor, from whence he suddenly marched, in the direction of Dewgur, the capital of Ram Dew. On his reaching that place, he found the Raja himself in the city, but his wife and eldest son were at worship at a temple at some distance. ### [35.4.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.4.2) On the approach of Alla-ood-Deen, Ram Dew was in the greatest consternation. Having, however, collected three or four thousand citizens and domestics, he opposed the Mahomedans at the distance of two coss (four miles) from the city, but being defeated, retired into the fort which had at that time no ditch. It happened that some of Ram Dew's subjects, who had brought salt for sale from the Concan, had left their bags close to the fort walls, and fled on the approach of the enemy. The garrison, supposing the bags to contain grain, carried them into the fort as a supply for a siege. Alla-ood-Deen so effectually surrounded the place that the inhabitants had no opportunity to escape, which enabled him to levy large sums on the merchants by way of contribution. He also captured forty elephants and several thousand horses, belonging to Ram Dew, in the town. In the mean time he gave out that his force was only the advance-guard of the King of Dehly's army, consisting of twenty thousand horse, which was in full march to the place. This information excited general apprehension throughout the Deccan; and the rajas, instead of uniting for their common safety, each endeavoured to secure himself against attack. Alla-ood-Deen pillaged the city, seized on the merchants, brahmins, and principal inhabitants, and tortured them to make discovery of their property, while at the same time he conducted the siege of the fort. ### [35.4.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.4.3) Ram Dew, seeing that he must soon be obliged to yield, and apprehending that the King of Dehly intended to make an entire conquest of the Deccan, was anxious to secure peace before any other forces arrived. He, therefore, addressed the following letter to Alla-ood-Deen : "Your invasion of this country was imprudent and rash; but fortunately for you, you found the city unguarded, and you have been permitted to range at large. It is, however, possible, that the rajas of the Deccan, who command innumerable armies, may yet surround you, and not permit one of your people to return from our dominions alive. Supposing, even, that you should be able to retreat from hence undisturbed, are not the princes of Malwa, Kandeish, and Gondwara, in your route, who have each armies of 40,000 or 50,000 men? Can you hope they will permit you to escape unmolested? It is advisable, therefore, for you to retire in time, by accepting a moderate sum, which, with the spoil you have already got, will indemnify you for the expense of your expedition." Alla-ood-Deen, according to these proposals, accepted of 50 maunds of gold, and a large quantity of pearls and jewels, and retained the elephants which he had taken in the Raja's stables. He released his prisoners, and promised to quit the town on the morning of the fifteenth day from his first entrance. ### [35.4.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.4.4) But while he was preparing to retreat, Ram Dew's eldest son, Shunkul Dew, who had retired with his mother on the first appearance of the Mahomedan troops, to collect succours, advanced with a numerous army within a few miles of the city. Ram Dew sent a message to his son, informing him, that peace was concluded; and enjoined him to allow what had been settled to be quietly carried into effect, and required him to abstain from molesting the Mahomedans, whom he declared to be an enterprising and warlike race, with whom peace was better than war. The young prince, however, aware that his army amounted to thrice the number of the enemy, and hourly expecting to be joined by other princes, neglected the commands of his father, and wrote to Alla-ood-Deen in these terms: — "If you have any love for life, and desire safety, restore what you have plundered, and proceed quietly homeward, rejoicing at your happy escape." Alla-ood-Deen, on perusal of this letter, fired with indignation, ordered, that the messengers should have their faces blackened with soot, and be hooted out of his camp. He left Mullik Noosrut to invest the fort with a thousand horse, in order to prevent a sally, and marched with the rest of his army to attack the Raja's son. ### [35.4.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.4.5) The Hindoos by no means declined the contest; and an action ensued, in which the Mahomedan troops, overpowered by numbers, fell back on all sides. Meanwhile, Mullik Noosrut, on learning the situation of affairs, left his post without orders, and galloping up to the field of battle with his thousand horse, changed the fortune of the day. The dust preventing the enemy from discovering the amount of Mullik Noosrut's force, it was supposed, by the Hindoos, that the King's army, of which they had heard, was arrived. In an instant a panic spread through their ranks, and they broke and fled in every direction. Alla-ood-Deen did not think it prudent to pursue them, but immediately returned, and having again encamped around the fort, exhibited to the garrison several of the Raja's kindred, in chains, who had been taken prisoners in the action. ### [35.4.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.4.6) Ram Dew, now in a state of the utmost perplexity, sent expresses to hasten the succours which he expected from the rajas of Koolburga, Tulingana, Malwa, and Kandeish. But the greatest cause of distress (of which till then he was unaware) was his want of provisions ; for it was only now discovered, that the bags formerly brought into the fort, and supposed to contain grain, were filled with salt. Ram Dew, with much presence of mind, commanded the circumstance to be kept secret from the troops, and opened a second negotiation with Alla-ood-Deen. "It must be known to you," said the Prince, "that I had no hand in the late quarrel. If my son, owing to the folly and petulance of youth, has broken the conditions between us, that event ought not to render me responsible for his rashness." Ram Dew, moreover, authorised his ambassador privately to accede to any terms rather than protract the siege. Alla-ood-Deen, from the conduct of Ram Dew, suspected the true cause of his anxiety, and, therefore, proposed every day some new difficulty to retard the treaty. The garrison, being in the very last stage of distress, another treaty was concluded by the Raja upon the following terms:— viz. ### [35.4.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.4.7) "That Alla-ood-Deen should receive, on evacuating the country, 600 maunds of pearls, two maunds of diamonds, rubies, emeralds and sapphires, 1000 maunds of silver, 4000 pieces of silk," besides a long list of other precious commodities to which reason forbids us to give credit. This ransom was not the only one required, but the cession of Elichpoor, and its dependencies, was also demanded, where Alla-ood-Deen might leave a garrison, which should remain there unmolested, for the collection of the revenues to be remitted to him at Kurra Manukpoor. Alla-ood-Deen having released all his prisoners, marched in triumph out of the city with his plunder, and proceeded on his return, on the 25th day from his first arrival before Dewgur. He conducted his retreat with such address, that he opened his way through extensive and powerful kingdoms; viz. Malwa, Gondwara, and Kandeish. In this retreat, though surrounded by hostile armies, yet owing to the great order and regularity, as well as courage, displayed by his troops, they made little impression; and these attacks served only to add to the splendour of his enterprise. We may here justly remark, that, in the long volumes of history, there is scarcely any thing to be compared with this exploit, whether we regard the resolution in forming the plan, the boldness of its execution, or the great good fortune which attended its accomplishment. ### [35.5.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.5.1) When Alla-ood-Deen marched to Dewgur, all communication with Kurra was stopt, and no news heard of him for some months. The person whom he left as his deputy had orders to write to court, that he was engaged in the conquest of Chundery; but as the King, for the space of six months, had received no letters from under his own hand, he began to suspect treason. In the year 695, under the pretence of hunting, the King ordered out his retinue, and proceeded towards Gualiar, where he encamped, and built a large and lofty dome, with a verse to this purpose inscribed over the door:— "What fame can I, whose footsteps press the throne of empire, acquire from raising this rude mass of masonry? No! I have united these broken stones together, in order that, under their shade, the weary traveller, or broken-hearted pilgrim, may find repose, and offer up his blessing." In the mean time, private intelligence arrived, that Alla-ood-Deen, having conquered Dewgur, had acquired such wealth as was never before possessed, even by a king of Dehly, with which he was now on his return towards Kurra. The King, delighted with this news, reckoned upon the spoil as if already in his own treasury; but men of more reflection thought otherwise, and justly concluded, that it was not to fill the royal coffers, that Alla-ood-Deen, without the King's authority, had undertaken so bold and hazardous an expedition. They, however, waited to see the issue, without communicating their suspicions. ### [35.5.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.5.2) The King having one day assembled his council, told them, that Alla-ood-Deen was now on his return to Kurra with immense booty, and requested their advice, whether it would be most prudent for him to remain where he was, and command Alla-ood-Deen to the presence, or to march towards him, or to return to Dehly? Mullik Ahmud Hubeeb, at once sagacious and remarkable for his open and candid mode of addressing the King on all occasions, ventured to express his suspicions of the ultimate designs of his nephew. He advised the King to advance with his army towards Chundery, and encamp on the road along which lay Alla-ood-Deen's route to Kurra. "This," said he, "will enable you to discover the Prince's intentions before he has time to augment his army." He added, further, that, upon the appearance of the imperial army, it was highly probable that the troops of Alla-ood-Deen, laden with spoil, and within their own country, would not hazard the loss of it by an action; but would rather endeavour to secure their wealth, and disperse among the mountains. That by these means, Alla-ood-Deen, if he meditated revolt, would be deserted by the greatest part of his small army, which would oblige him to abandon whatever plans he might have formed for establishing his independence, and induce him to lay his wealth at the foot of the throne. ### [35.5.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.5.3) He proceeded to observe, that the King in this case might take the gold, jewels, and elephants, which, according to custom, appertained to the crown, and permit Alla-ood-Deen to retain the remainder for himself. It would then be a point for consideration, whether he should be allowed to continue in his government, or be directed to accompany the court to Dehly. Mullik Fukhr-ood-Deen Koochy, kotwal of Dehly, though sensible of the propriety of this advice, yet, on looking towards the King, and perceiving he did not approve of it, spoke to the following effect: "The accounts of Alla-ood-Deen's return, the amount of his plunder, and the truth of his conquest, have not yet been publicly confirmed. We have them only from flying reports, which, we all know, are often vague and extravagant. Supposing, even, that what we hear is true, is it not natural to imagine, that when he shall hear of the approach of the King's army, that the fear of false accusation, or evil designs against him, will induce him to retreat to the mountains, from whence, as the rainy season is approaching, it will be impossible to dislodge him? Let us not, therefore, cast off our shoes before we reach the river, but wait till Alla-ood-Deen shall arrive at Kurra. If it shall then appear that he cherishes treasonable views, one assault of the King's forces will put an end to his ambition." ### [35.5.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.5.4) Ahmud Hubeeb, having heard this, observed, with indignation, "The time passes. As soon as Alla-ood-Deen shall have escaped us, will he not proceed by the way of Oude to Bengal? where, by securing his treasure, he will soon be enabled to raise such an army as neither you nor I will be able to oppose. Oh, shame! that men who know better should not have the courage to give honest counsel when required to do so." The King, displeased with these words, addressing the officers who stood near him, said, "Ahmud Hubeeb never fails to do ill offices to our nephew, against whom he endeavours to excite our suspicion and resentment; but such private rancour shall have no weight with us. We are so well assured of the loyalty of Alla-ood-Deen, whom we have nursed in our bosom, that we would sooner believe treason of our own son than of him." Upon this, Ahmud Hubeeb rose with some emotion, and striking one hand upon the other, walked out, repeating the following verse: "When the sun of prosperity is eclipsed, advice ceases to enlighten the mind." The King adopted the opinion of Mullik Fukhr-ood-Deen, and marched back with his army to Dehly. ### [35.5.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.5.5) Not many days after his arrival at the capital, a letter came from Alla-ood-Deen, in which he styled himself the King's slave, and stated, that all his wealth was at the King's disposal; but that, being wearied with the tedious march, he begged for some repose at Kurra. He observed, that he had intended to kiss the foot of the throne; but knowing he had enemies at court, who might, in his absence, defame his character, and deprive him of his Majesty's favour, he and the chiefs who accompanied him in the expedition (in which he was sensible he had acted without orders) were apprehensive of punishment. He, therefore, requested to have a letter of grace, assuring him and his followers of their safety, and of the royal protection. The King was deceived, and credited all the assertions of his nephew, who, on his part, made preparations for going off to Luknowty; for which purpose he despatched Zuffur Khan towards Oude, to secure the boats on the Surjoo, so that in case the King should come to Kurra Manukpoor, he might be able to cross the river, and proceed at once to Bengal, where he resolved to establish an independent sovereignty. The King, unsuspicious of his designs, wrote kind letters to Alla-ood-Deen, which he sent by two trusty messengers. These messengers, on their arrival at Kurra, perceiving how matters stood, endeavoured to return, but they were seized, and had no opportunity of writing the true state of affairs to court. ### [35.5.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.5.6) The King, concluding the apprehensions of Alla-ood-Deen were still unremoved, endeavoured to satisfy his mind through Almas Beg, the brother of the latter. Alla-ood-Deen, meanwhile, wrote to Almas Beg, that it was now a matter of notoriety at Kurra, that the King intended certainly to take his life for proceeding to Dewgur without orders. That he sincerely repented of what he had done, and had taken his Majesty's displeasure, which to him was worse than death, so much to heart, that he was afraid excess of sorrow would put an end to his melancholy life. He, therefore, begged of his brother to inform him of the King's real design, in order that he might either take poison, or look out for a place of security. Letters to this effect were day after day received by Almas Beg, who, being in the plot to deceive the King, showed them to him, and professed at the same time to be apprehensive lest his brother should lay violent hands on himself, or fly his country. He used a thousand delusive arts to inveigle the King to Kurra, who conceived, that the final possession of the treasure depended on the preservation of his nephew's life. The old man at last embarked with a thousand horse and a small retinue, on the Ganges, ordering Ahmud Hubeeb to follow with the army by land. Alla-ood-Deen, hearing of the King's departure from Dehly, crossed the Ganges, and encamped near Manikpoor, upon the opposite bank. On the 17th of Rumzan, the royal canopy appeared in sight. ### [35.5.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.5.7) Alla-ood-Deen drew out his troops on pretence of doing honour to the King, deputing his brother, Almas Beg, who had come on before, to concert measures for his reception. This artful traitor represented to the King, that if he should take so large a retinue as a thousand horse with him, Alla-ood-Deen might be alarmed; for that some bad people had confirmed him so strongly in his fears, that all he could say was insufficient entirely to allay his suspicions. The King, still unsuspicious of treachery from so near a relative, whom he had cherished from his infancy, acceded to the proposal, and having ordered a few only of his select attendants to follow him into his barge, caused the fleet to remain at some distance behind. When the royal party came near the camp, Almas Beg again told the King, that his brother, seeing so many men in armour, might possibly be alarmed; that, therefore, as he had taken such ridiculous notions into his head, which no one could remove, it were better to avoid the least appearance of state. The King, consequently, directed his attendants to unbuckle their armour, and lay their weapons aside. Mullik Khoorum, the chief secretary, opposed this step with great vehemence, for he now began to suspect treachery; but the traitor Almas Beg, had such a winning and plausible tongue, that he, too, at last yielded, though with great reluctance. ### [35.5.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.5.8) The King reached the landing-place, and Alla-ood-Deen appeared upon the bank with his attendants, whom he ordered to halt. He advanced alone, met his uncle, and fell prostrate at his feet. The old man, in a familiar manner, tapped him on the cheek, and raising him up, embraced him, saying, "How could you be suspicious of me, who have brought you up from your childhood, and cherished you with a fatherly affection, holding you dearer in my sight, if possible, than my own offspring?" Then taking him by the hand, he was leading him back into the royal barge, when Alla-ood-Deen made a signal to his guards, who were behind. Mahmood Bin Salim, rushing forward, wounded the King with his sword over the shoulder. The unfortunate monarch ran forward to gain the barge, crying, "Ah! thou villain, Alla-ood-Deen;" but before he had reached the boat, another of the guards, Yekhtyar-ood-Deen, coming up, seized the feeble old man, and throwing him on the ground, cut off his head. The rebels then fixed the venerable head of their sovereign on the point of a spear, and carried it through the camp and city. ### [35.5.9](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35.5.9) The day before this event took place, Alla-ood-Deen visited a reverend sage, named Sheikh Karrik, who is buried at Kurra, and whose tomb is still held sacred. That holy man, rising from his pillow, repeated the following extempore verse: "He who cometh against thee shall lose his head in the boat, and his body shall be thrown into the Ganges." Which, they say, was explained a few hours after, by the death of the unfortunate King, whose head fell into the boat upon this occasion. Mahmood Bin Salim, one of the assassins, about a year after, died of a horrid leprosy, which dissolved the flesh, piece-meal, from his bones. Yekhtyar-ood-Deen, the other assassin, fared no better; for he became mad, crying out incessantly, that Julal-ood-Deen Feroze was cutting off his head. Thus this wretch also suffered a thousand deaths, in imagination, before he expired. Almas Beg, the brother of Alla-ood-Deen, and the others concerned in this horrid tragedy, fell into such a course of misfortunes, that in the space of four years no traces of them remained on the face of the earth, though the recollection of their crimes long survived the event. And even Alla-ood-Deen himself, though fortune smiled on him at first, yet in the end he suffered great distress of mind, being obliged to imprison his own children, and to put to death, one after another, the friends whom he loved most, and in whom he most confided. Julal-ood-Deen Feroze Khiljy reigned for a period of seven years and some months. --- Source: [https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.35) · Pramāṇa