[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) › 50 # Firishta's History (Gulshan-i Ibrāhīmī) 50: SIKUNDUR LODY AFGHAN. History of the Rise of the Mahomedan Power in India (Briggs) 50 - **Language:** English ## Contents - [50.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.1) — 8 parts - [50.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.2) — 7 parts - [50.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.3) — 8 parts - [50.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.4) — 2 parts ### SIKUNDUR LODY AFGHAN. ### [50.1.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.1.1) The Afghan chiefs raise Nizam Khan to the throne, under the title of Sikundur. — Eesa Khan refuses at first to acknowledge Sikundur, but does so in the end — he revolts, and is killed in battle. — Barbik Khan refuses obedience — he is defeated — is reinstated in his government of Joonpoor — his bad administration — is eventually removed. — Efforts made by Hoossein Shah Shurqy to recover Joonpoor defeated. — Sikundur pursues Hoossein Shah to Bengal — invades Punna and Banda — proceeds to Dholpoor and Gualiar — receives submission from the rajas of both places — subsequently takes Dholpoor. — An earthquake in Agra. — Gives encouragement to the son of the King of Malwa to make over Chundery to him — obtains possession of Chundery. — Endeavours to lay hold on Runtunbhore, but fails. — Summons an army to collect at Agra for the siege of Gualiar. — The King is taken ill, and dies — his character — his zeal for the Mahomedan religion. Immediately on the death of Bheilole, the nobles met together, and consulted whom they should elevate to the throne. Some were disposed towards Azim Hoomayoon, the grandson, and others, towards Barbik Khan, the eldest surviving son of the late king. While they were debating on this point, the mother of Sikundur Khan (whose name was Zeina, the daughter of a goldsmith, but raised to the King's bed owing to her beauty) addressed the assembly from behind a curtain in favour of her son. ### [50.1.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.1.2) Upon which, Eesa Khan, the nephew of Bheilole, tauntingly observed, "What business have goldsmiths' sons with the reins of government, since it is proverbial that 'monkeys make but bad carpenters.'" Khan Khanan Lohany, one of the officers present, took him up sharply, saying, "The King is yet scarcely cold in his grave, and it ill becomes us at such a time to cast reflections on any of his progeny." Eesa Khan desired him to hold his tongue; observing, he was nothing but a servant, and had no right to interfere in family affairs. Khan Khanan now rising, instantly declared himself a servant of Sikundur Lody, and said that he would maintain his right against all who durst oppose it; when, having left the council, and being followed by all his party, he carried the body of the deceased King to the town of Jellaly, where, being met by Sikundur, the latter ascended his father's throne at that place. Sikundur now sent the corpse of his father to Dehly, and instantly marched against Eesa Khan. Having defeated this chief, he afterwards forgave him, and, returning to the capital, followed the example of his father, by conferring favours on all his kindred. At the time of his accession, Sikundur Lody had six sons; viz. Ibrahim, Julal, Ismael, Hoosein, Mahmood, and Azim Hoomayoon, besides whom were 14 officers of distinction; such as Khan Jehan Lody, Ahmud Khan, grandson of Khan Khanan Firmully, Sheikzada Firmully, Khan Khanan Lohany. Azim Hoomayoon Sheerwany. Duria Khan Lody. ### [50.1.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.1.3) Julal Khan Lody, Naib of Kalpy. Sheer Khan Lody. Moobarik Khan Mowjy. Khuleel Khan Lody. Ahmud Khan Lody, Naib of Etawa. Ibrahim Khan Sheerwany. Mahomed Shah Lody. Baboo Khan Sheerwany. Hoossein Khan Firmully, Naib of Saharun. Sooliman Khan Firmully. Syeed Khan Lody. Ismael Khan Lohany. Tartar Khan Firmully. Sheikh Khan Lody. Sheikzada Mahomed Firmully (called also Kala Pahar). Sheik Jumal Firmully. Sheikh Othman Firmully. Sheikh Ahmud Firmully. Adam Khan Lody. Hoossein Khan Lody. Kubeer Khan Lody. Nuseer Khan Lohany. Ghazv Khan Lody. Tartar Khan, governor of Tijara. Khwaja Nusr-oolla. Mobarik Khan. Yekbal Khan, Naib of Bary. Asghur, the son of Kowam-ool-Moolk. Sheer Khan Lohany. Imail-ool-Moolk Kumboh. Alum Khan Lody. Kubeer Khan Lody. Bhikun Khan Lody. Zahiyr Khan Lody. Oomr Khan Sheerwany. Jubbar Khan Sheerwany. Alum Khan Jidwany. Suddur Khan Jidwany. Meean Jooman Kumboh, Mujd-ood-Deen, Sheikh Ibrahim, Sheikh Oothman, Sheikh Oomr, Sheikh Siddeek, Kazy Abdool, Wahab of Kabul, Meean Bhoory, Lords of the bed-chamber. ### [50.1.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.1.4) Some time after his accession, Sikundur Lody marched towards Rabery, and thence to the fort of Chundwar, in which place his brother, the Prince Alum Khan, had declared his independence. On the King's approach, Alum Khan, abandoning the town, fled to Eesa Khan Lody at Pattialy. Sikundur having conferred the district of Rabery on Khan Khanan Firmully, proceeded to Etawa, where he received the submission of his brother Alum Khan, and pardoned him; he also conferred Etawa upon him as his estate. Thence the King proceeded to Pattialy, where Eesa Khan being attacked was wounded and threw himself on the King's mercy. He was pardoned, but soon after died of his wounds. Sikundur Lody now deputed a mission to wait on the Prince Barbik, his brother, who assumed the title of King of Joonpoor, requiring him to do homage, and to cause the name of Sikundur to be read first in the Khootba. Barbik, however, rejecting this proposal, Sikundur Lody marched against him. Barbik, and his general Kala Pahar, drew out in order of battle to meet his brother; and an action ensued, in which Kala Pahar was taken prisoner. Sikundur Lody, on seeing him, alighted from his horse, and embracing him, said he esteemed him as his father, and begged he would look on him as his son. ### [50.1.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.1.5) Kala Pahar, overcome by this unexpected honour, replied, that except his life, he had nothing to offer in return, and trusted that he might be employed, and have an opportunity of evincing his gratitude: he was accordingly mounted on one of the King's own horses, and instantly led a charge of cavalry against the party whose cause he had before espoused, which in a great measure led to the King's success. The troops of Barbik seeing Kala Pahar charging them, and imagining that all his division had also gone over to the enemy, took to flight. The Prince Barbik behaved with great bravery, but being deserted by his troops fled to Budaoon. His son, Moobarik Khan, however, was made prisoner in the action. Sikundur Lody pursued his brother to Budaoon, and laid siege to it; but Barbik soon after capitulating, he was received with great kindness, and treated with respect. The King now returned to Joonpoor, and finding that Hoossein Shah Shurky, the exiled king of the Shurky provinces, was still in force in Behar, he thought it advisable to permit his brother Barbik to retain the government of Joonpoor in order to check Hoossein Shah Shurky in any attempt he might make on Dehly. At the same time, also, he left some trusty friends of his own with the Prince, on whom he bestowed estates in order to retain them steady to his interest. Sikundur Lody, now proceeding to Kalpy, resumed the government from Azim Hoomayoon, and conferred it on Mahomed Khan Lody. ### [50.1.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.1.6) From thence he marched to Bhurayee, where Tartar Khan the governor, after doing homage, was confirmed in his estate. The King thence marched in the direction of Gualiar, whither he sent one of his officers, Khwaja Mahomed Firmully, with an honorary dress to Raja Man Sing, who despatched his nephew with presents to meet the King at Byana. Sooltan Shurf, the governor of Byana, also paid his respects to the King, who removed him from that district, but nominated him governor of Jalesur, Chundwara, Marhera, and Sukeet. Sooltan Shurf was accompanied by Oomr Khan Sheerwany, to whom he was directed to make over the fort of Byana; but when he had got within the walls, Sooltan Shurf shut the gates, and prepared to defend himself. The King, however, choosing to overlook the circumstances went to Agra, where Heibut Khan Julwany, who held that fort under Sooltan Shurf, also shut the gates. This insult so enraged Sikundur Lody, that leaving part of his army to besiege Agra, he returned in person towards Byana, to which he laid siege. Sooltan Shurf, in the end, was obliged to capitulate, and in the year 897, the government was given to Khan Khanan Firmully, and he was banished for the present to Gualiar. ### [50.1.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.1.7) The fort of Agra falling about the same time, Sikundur returned to Dehly, where in a few days after he received advices of an insurrection at Joonpoor among the zemindars, who had raised an army, consisting of 100,000 horse and foot, and had slain Sheer Khan, the brother of Moobarik Khan Lohany, governor of Kurra. Moobarik Khan himself was driven from Kurra, and taken prisoner, while in the act of crossing the Ganges, by Saha Dew Raja of Kutnu. The Prince Barbik had also been obliged to fly to Byrautch to solicit the assistance of Kala P'har, so that the King, after only 24 days' rest at Dehly, was under the necessity of returning towards Joonpoor. When he arrived at Dulmow he was joined by the Prince Barbik; and Raja Saha Dew, hearing of his approach, released Moobarik Khan Lohany. The King proceeded to Katgur, where the zemindars had assembled in force; but they were defeated, and much property fell into the hands of the Moslems. The King, having marched to Joonpoor and reinstated the Prince Barbik, himself remained a month in that vicinity. Here he received intelligence that the zemindars, having been again driven to excesses, had besieged Barbik in Joonpoor; on which Sikundur ordered Kala Pahar, Hoomayoon Khan Sheerwany, and Khan Khanan Lohany, from Oude, and Moobarik Khan from Kurra, to unite and march against them. ### [50.1.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.1.8) He also directed them to send the Prince Barbik to the presence, where he was made over, as a state-prisoner, to the charge of Heibut Khan and Oomur Khan Sheerwany. ### [50.2.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.2.1) After these events the King marched towards Chunar, then in possession of Hoossein Shah Shurky. On his approach, the garrison made a sally, but were repulsed. On reconnoitring the place, however, and being unwilling to incur the risk of failure, he proceeded to Kootumba, a place dependent on Patna. Kulbhudur Ray, Raja of Kootumba, came forth to meet the King, and submitted to his authority. From thence the King marched to Arele, accompanied by Kulbhudur Ray. But the Raja suspecting treachery, left his retinue, and fled one night from the camp to Patna. Sikundur Lody permitted the Raja's followers to quit the camp, next day, with his private property, but he allowed his own troops to plunder the country on their route to Arele. On crossing the Ganges at Kurra, the King went to Dulmow, where he married the widow of Sheer Khan, the late governor of that place. From Dulmow, Sikundur marched to Shumsabad, where, having halted for six months, he proceeded to Sumbhul; but returning from thence in a few days to Shumsabad, he plundered the town of Dewnary, where a banditti had taken post. The King spent the rainy season at Shumsabad, and in the year 900, again marched in the direction of Patna. He was there opposed by Nursing Ray, the son of Bulbhudur Ray, at the Hundia Ghaut; who being defeated, retired within the walls of Patna. On the King's approach, Bulbhudur Ray fled, taking the route of Surgooja, and died on the journey. After this event the King proceeded to Sahsdewar; ### [50.2.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.2.2) but provisions becoming scarce in his camp, he was obliged to return to Joonpoor, having in this march lost most of his cavalry, owing to the bad roads and want of forage. Nursing Ray, the son of Bulbhudur Ray, and other zemindars, taking advantage of this circumstance, wrote to Hoossein Shah Shurky, then in possession of the province of Behar, that the cavalry of Sikundur Lody was now in so wretched a condition, that a favourable opportunity presented itself for him to take revenge. Hoossein Shah Shurky accordingly put his army in motion, and marched against the King. Sikundur, on hearing of his intentions, crossed the Ganges to meet him; and the two armies came in sight of each other at a spot distant 18 coss miles) from Benares. An obstinate battle ensued, in which Hoossein Shah Shurky was defeated, and fled to Patna. Sikundur Lody, according to the most authentic accounts, pursued the fugitives for several days with 100,000 horse; but hearing that his enemy had fled to Behar, he halted on the ninth day, till the whole of his army joined, with which he marched towards Behar. Hoossein Shah left Mullik Kundoo to protect Behar, and fled himself to Koolgam, in the district of Luknowty. Alla-ood-Deen Shah Poorby, King of Bengal, received the fugitive at his court with the utmost courtesy. Here he passed the remainder of his days in obscurity; and the royal race of Joonpoor became extinct in his person. ### [50.2.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.2.3) Sikundur Lody, having returned to Dewnary, detached a division of his army against Mullik Kundoo, who fled, leaving the country open to the King of Dehly, who appointed Heibut Khan to remain with a force in Behar. The King now proceeded towards Tirhoot, the raja of which country consented to pay an annual tribute. Moobarik Khan Lohany was directed to receive it, while the King went to Dervishpoor, and visited the tomb of Sheikh Shurf Munery; on which occasion he distributed presents to the holy persons who resided at that shrine. It was at this time, also, that Khan Jehan, the son of Khan Khanan Fermully, died, and his son, Ahmud Khan, received the title of Azim Hoomayoon. The King now marched his army towards Bengal, and reaching Kootlooghpoor, Alla-ood-Deen Shah Poorby sent his son Daniel to oppose him. On the part of the King of Dehly, Mahmood Khan Lody and Moobarik Khan Mowjy were detached to meet Daniel. The opposing armies encamped close to each other at the village of Bar; but instead of fighting, a peace was concluded; when it was agreed that both parties should cease to molest each other, or to afford protection to their mutual enemies. On the return of the army towards Dehly, Moobarik Khan Mowjy died in Patna, and at Dervishpoor, Moobarik Khan Lohany also died suddenly. The duty of collecting the tribute of Tirhoot was now intrusted to Azim Hoomayoon, the son of Khan Jehan; ### [50.2.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.2.4) while the government of Behar was conferred upon Duria Khan, the son of the late Moobarik Khan Lohany. There happened, at this time, a great dearth in the country; but the transit customs on grain being relinquished, that calamity was in some measure averted, nor were the duties again imposed during that reign. Sikundur, meanwhile, reducing the districts of Saharun, then in the hands of the zemindars, gave the lands in jageers to several of his officers. He then returned to Joonpoor, where he resided six months. Sometime previously to this event, the King having asked the daughter of Salivahn, Raja of Punna, in marriage, the Raja refused to comply with his request; in consequence of which, the King put his army in motion, and in the year 898, marched to Punna, and sacked the country as far as Banda, after which he returned to Joonpoor, where he spent some time. At this period the accounts of Moobarik Khan Lody being inspected, for the period of his administration in Joonpoor, and great defalcation being discovered, the King ordered the balances to be realised from him. This circumstance gave umbrage to many Afghan officers, which evinced itself in the factions that arose in favour of the defaulter. One day, while the King and his court were playing at chowgan, the bat of Heibut Khan Sheerwany, by accident, came in contact with the head of Sooliman, the son of Duria Khan Lody, who received a severe blow. ### [50.2.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.2.5) This was resented on the spot by Khizr Khan, the brother of Sooliman, who galloping up to Hybut Khan, struck him violently over the skull. In a few minutes both sides joined in the quarrel, and the field was in uproar and confusion. Mahmood Khan Lody and Khan Khanan Lody interposing, endeavoured to pacify Heibut Khan, and succeeded in persuading him to go quietly home with them. The King, apprehensive of conspiracy, retired immediately to the palace, but nothing more transpiring, he made another party at the same game a few days after. On the road to the play-ground, Shums Khan, a relation of Heibut Khan Sheerwany, perceiving Khizr Khan, the brother of Sooliman Khan Lody, instantly attacked him with his bat, and knocked him off his horse. The King abused Shums Khan grossly, and returned to his palace; and could not be persuaded but that there was some plot in agitation. He accordingly ordered his guards to be selected, and to be more than usually vigilant. The King's jealousies were not groundless; for at that time Heibut Khan Sheerwany and two other chiefs had proposed to the Prince Futteh Khan, the King's brother, to cut him off, declaring that he was now universally disliked, and they offered to place Futteh Khan on the throne. The Prince, desiring some time to consider of the project, consulted Sheikh Tahir Kabully and his mother, who both strongly dissuaded him from lending himself to the conspiracy; ### [50.2.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.2.6) and lest the affair should by any other means transpire, they recommended him to acquaint the King instantly of what had been proposed to him. On this, the conspirators being detached on different services, to a distance, were cut off in detail. In the year 905, the King marched to Sumbhul, where he spent four years, partly in pleasure, and partly in transacting civil affairs. While thus employed, he heard heavy complaints from the Afghans against Asghur Khan, the governor of Dehly. On this he ordered Khuvas Khan, governor of Machiwara, to proceed to Dehly, and to send Asghur Khan prisoner to court. Asghur Khan, receiving advice of this intention, quitted the capital, and threw himself at the King's feet; but not being able to frame sufficient excuse for his conduct, he was ordered into confinement. It is mentioned that about this period a bramin, whose name was Boodhun, an inhabitant of Kataen, near Luknow, being upbraided by some Mahomedans on account of his faith, maintained "that the religions both of the Moslems and "Hindoos, if acted on with sincerity, were equally "acceptable to God." ### [50.2.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.2.7) As this opinion had been supported with some ingenuity, and much argument, by the brahmin, the subject came to be discussed publicly before the kazies of Luknow, and the brahmin was ordered to appear. On this occasion, Kazy Peeala and Sheikh Budr, both residing at Luknow, had different opinions; and the arguments of the brahmin having made some stir in the city, Azim Hoomayoon, the governor, thought fit to send all the parties to the court at Sumbhul, where the King, who was fond of hearing disputations on religious subjects, directed the most learned men in his empire to assemble and argue the point of faith with the brahmin. The following persons were accordingly brought together:— ### [50.3.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.3.1) Meean Kadir bin Sheikh Rajoo, Meean Abdool Khas, and Meean Allahdad of Toolumba. Syud Mahomed, bin Syud Khan of Delhy. Moolla Kootb-ood-Deen, and Moolla Allahdad Saleh from Surhind. Syud Aman, Syud Boorhan, and Syud Ahsun from Kanooj. Besides which were the learned men who usually attended the court; such as, Syud Sudur-ood-Deen of Kunowj. Meean Abdool Rahman of Seekry. Meean Azeez-oolla of Sumbhul. All these persons were present at this disputation. After many arguments, the learned men were of opinion, that unless the infidel, who had maintained the Hindoo worship to be equally acceptable to God as that of the true faith, should renounce his error, and adopt the Mahomedan religion, he ought to suffer death. The Hindoo refused to apostatise, and was accordingly executed, while the Mussulmen doctors were rewarded with gifts, and returned to their respective homes. When Khuvas Khan, whom we have already mentioned, entered Dehly, he found an order from the King to proceed to court. Syud Khan Lody was also recalled from Lahore, and being suspected of disaffection, he, together with Tartar Khan Firmully, and Mahomed Shah Lody, were banished to Guzerat. In the same year (A. H. 907) Man-Sing Ray of Gualiar sent one of his eunuchs, named Nehal, to the King, with rich presents, as ambassador; but this person having given offence at court, was ordered to quit it suddenly, without obtaining an audience. ### [50.3.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.3.2) At this time, information was received of the death of Khan Khanan Firmully, governor of Byana. The management of Byana devolved on his sons; but as the government fell into disorder in their hands, the King conferred the office of governor on Khuvas Khan, while Ahmud and Sooliman, the sons of the late Khan Khanan, received the estates of Shumsabad, Jalesur, Kampila, and Shahabad. Sadr Khan was deputed at the same time with a force to reduce Agra, then dependent on Byana, and which had revolted. Another detachment also went to besiege Dholpoor, which was in possession of Raja Vinaik Dew, who had begun to make warlike preparations. Khwaja Rubuni the officer employed on this latter duty, being killed, the King was so vexed, that he marched from Sumbhul towards Dholpoor on Friday the sixth of Jumad-ool-Awul of the same year. On his approach, Vinaik Dew, leaving a deputy in the fort, fled towards Gualiar; and the garrison on the next night evacuated the place, and enabled the King to take possession. He remained there about a month, and having laid waste the country, proceeded to Gualiar. The Raja of Gualiar sued for terms, and delivered up Syeed Khan Sheerwany, Babookhan Sheerwany, and Ray Runesh, who had, at different times, fled from the court, and found protection with him. At the same time, he deputed the Raja's own son Vikramajeet, with costly offerings, to propitiate the King's favour. ### [50.3.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.3.3) Sikundur Lody, having returned to Dholpoor, reinstated the Raja Vinaik Dew, and then marching to Agra, he resolved to make that city his capital. He stayed in Agra during the rains, but in the year 910, marched towards Mundril. Having taken that place, he destroyed the Hindoo temples, and caused mosques to be built in their stead. From thence returning to Dholpoor, he took the fort from the Raja Vinaik Dew, and conferred the command of it on Sheikh Kumr-ood-Deen. Thence returning to Agra, the King permitted his officers to return to their respective estates. ### [50.3.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.3.4) In the following year, on Sunday, the 3d of Suffur, a violent earthquake occurred in Agra, so that the mountains shook to their broad bases, and lofty buildings were levelled with the ground. Several thousand inhabitants were buried under the ruins. No such earthquake has ever been experienced in India, either before or since. In the same year, the King proceeded towards Gualiar. He remained some months at Dholpoor, where having left his family and heavy baggage, he proceeded, with an unincumbered army of horse, to the hills, to plunder some Hindoo rajas, from whom he took great spoils. Finding the supplies in his camp fail suddenly, owing to the free intercourse with the Bunjaras being cut off, he detached Azim Hoomayoon, Ahmud Khan, and Mujahid Khan, with their divisions, to afford these merchants convoy, which they effected at great risk, owing to the vigorous efforts of the inhabitants in the vicinity of Gualiar. Shortly after, while the army was halting near the town of Chinoor, a dependency of Gualiar, it was attacked in an ambuscade, and saved only by the bravery of Dawood Khan, and by Ahmud Khan, the son of Khan Jehan, grandson of Khan Khanan Firmully: the Hindoos were at length repulsed, and a number of Rajpoots fell by the sword. ### [50.3.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.3.5) Having returned to Agra, the King proceeded in the year 912 towards the fort of Hunwuntgur, despairing of reducing Gualiar. Hunwuntgur fell in a short time, and the Rajpoot garrison was put to the sword, the temples were destroyed, and mosques ordered to be built in their stead. Bhikun Khan, the son of Mujahid Khan, was left in charge; but the King, having afterwards received information that Mujahid Khan had taken a bribe from the Raja of Hunwuntgur, in order to divert the King from attacking that place, Mujahid Khan was imprisoned at Dholpoor, and the King returned towards Agra. On the road, the army halted one day on a spot where there was little water. The distress in consequence was so severe, that, independently of the loss of baggage cattle, no fewer than 800 human beings perished, before they could obtain relief; and till evening, a small cup of water sold for fifteen tunkas throughout the camp. ### [50.3.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.3.6) In the following year, the King marched against Nurwur, a strong fort in the district of Malwa, then in possession of the Hindoos. The Prince Julal Khan, governor of Kalpy, was directed to advance and invest the place; and should the Hindoos resist, he was required to inform the King. On the King's arrival before Nurwur, Julal Khan drew up his army, out of respect, to receive him; but this circumstance creating distrust in the mind of Sikundur, he determined on his ruin. Nurwur, which was eight coss in circumference, was invested; but the operations were protracted for eight months; when it appearing that a clandestine correspondence was maintained with the garrison, and suspicions falling on the Prince Julal Khan Lody, and Sheer Khan Lohany, they were both imprisoned in the fort of Hunwuntgur. The garrison soon after capitulated, being in want both of water and provisions. The King remained for the space of six months at Nurwur, breaking down temples, and building mosques. He also established a college there, and placed therein many holy and learned men. It was at this period, that Shahab-ood-Deen, the son of Sooltan Nasir-ood-Deen, King of Malwa, being discontented with his father, proposed a conference with the King of Dehly. A meeting took place on the Seepry, where Sikundur Lody promised him his support, if he would make over Chundery to him. In the month of Shaban, A. H. 914, the King marched from Nurwur; ### [50.3.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.3.7) but proceeding some distance along the Sind river, he resolved to surround Nurwur with another wall, which was ordered to be immediately commenced. The King now marched to the town of Yehar, where he halted during a whole month. At this place, Niamut Khatoon, the wife of Kootub Khan Lody, and the wet nurse of the young Prince Julal Khan, paid her respects to the King, and the district of Kalpy was made over in jageer to the Prince. The King now returned towards the capital. On arriving at Huthkant, he sent a detachment against some rebels in that neighbourhood, and destroyed all their habitations, small posts being established at proper distances to overawe them. About this time, advices were received, that Ahmud Khan, the son of Moobarik Khan Lody, governor of Luknow, had become a convert to the Hindoo doctrines; on which, orders were despatched to his brother, Mahomed Khan, to send him prisoner to court, and his second brother, Syud Khan, was directed to take the administration of affairs into his hands. In the same year, also, Mahomed Khan, the grandson of Sooltan Nasir-ood-Deen of Malwa, having fled from the wrath of his grandfather, sought an asylum at the Dehly court. The King desired him to remain quietly in his jageer of Chundery, and directed that the Prince Julal Khan of Kalpy should take care to protect him from the power of the King of Malwa. At this time, the King having marched to Mundsoor, ordered caravansaras to be built at every stage. ### [50.3.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.3.8) It was in this year, also, Mahomed Khan Nagoory defeated Alee Khan and Aba Bukr, who had conspired against him, and they fled to Sikundur Lody for protection. Mahomed Khan, dreading the King's resentment, sent presents to propitiate his good-will, and, moreover, caused the Khootba of Nagoor to be read in the name of the King of Dehly. The King, on his part, pleased with this mark of voluntary submission, returned him a dress, and confirmed his authority. ### [50.4.923](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.4.923) While the King was encamped at Dholpoor, he ordered Sooliman Khan, the son of Khan Jehan Firmully, to march to the aid of Hoossein Khan of Hunwuntgur. Sooliman Khan having excused himself, by saying he preferred being about the King's person, the latter became incensed, and forthwith dismissed him from his service, directing him to quit the camp by next morning at daylight; at the same time, he conferred the revenue of Birun on him for his future maintenance. At this time, Bohjut Khan, governor of Chundery, on the part of the King of Malwa, perceiving the imbecility of his master, Sooltan Mahmood, made overtures to place himself under the Dehly government. Sikundur Lody accordingly deputed Imad-ool-Moolk to assist Bhojut Khan in his revolt; soon after which, the King issued a proclamation, announcing the acquisition of Chundery to his dominions. Deeming it desirable, also, to make some alterations among the public officers of that province, the King deputed Syud Khan Lody, Sheikh Jumal Firmully, and Ray Oogur-Sein Kuchwaha, together with Khizr Khan and Khwaja Ahmud, to proceed to Chundery; and these officers succeeded in occupying effectually that district for the government of Dehly. Mahomed Khan, the Prince of Malwa, although considered ostensibly the chief of Chundery, was, in fact, dispossessed of all authority, and confined to the city, while the supremacy of Bohjut Khan, the Malwa governor, being usurped by the Dehly officers, he left his government and came to court. At this period, the King having reason to suspect the conduct of Hoossein Khan Firmully, Naib of Saharun, he deputed Hajy Sarung with some troops into that quarter, with orders to gain over the Naib's troops, and to seize his person. Hoossein Khan became acquainted with the King's intentions; and contriving his escape, sought an asylum with Alla-ood-Deen Shah Poorby, King of Bengal. In the year 922, Ally Khan Nagwory, governor of Suwanoor, entered into a plot with the Prince Dowlut Khan of Malwa, governor of Runtunbhore, who promised to deliver that fortress to the King of Dehly, if he should come in person to take possession. Sikundur Lody, overjoyed at this intelligence, proceeded towards Byana, to which place the governor of Runtunbhore came to meet him, and was honourably received; but Ally Khan Nagoory, disappointed in the attainment of some objects which he had calculated as a reward for bringing this affair to bear, resolved to prevent its accomplishment, and used his influence with the governor to retract his promise. The King, ascertaining the true cause of this change, disgraced Ally Nagoory, and deprived him of his government of Suisapoor, which he conferred on his brother, Aboo Bukr; and Sikundur Lody was obliged to return to Agra without obtaining possession of Runtunbhore. In the year 923, the King summoned all the distant nobles to Agra, with a determination to reduce Gualiar; and was in the midst of his preparations, when, being taken ill of a quinsy, he died on Sunday, the 7th of Zeekada, 923. ### [50.4.p2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50.4.p2) Nizam-ood-Deen Ahmud states in his work, that the authors who have written this reign have filled their history with copious details of the great qualities of this Prince; but he observes, that he has considerably abridged their accounts, and confined himself only to such facts as appeared to him to merit particular notice. The authors alluded to have given a description of his person, which was remarkable for its beauty and comeliness, as was his mind for the store of learning and good sense which it contained. During his reign, all the articles of life were cheap and abundant, and peace pervaded his dominions. He never omitted to devote a certain time to hear complaints in public. and he has been frequently known to sit at business the whole day long, even after his appointed time for meals and rest. He was in the habit of praying regularly five times daily. He was strictly just in his administration, and seldom known to be actuated by private feelings. He was as remarkable for his fear of God as for his benevolence towards his people. One day, while advancing against his brother Barbik, in the early part of his reign, a kullundur met him, and said, "God send you victory!" on which the King said, "Pray that the victory may be his who will best promote the good of his subjects." He had numerous pensioners among the holy men of the empire, to whom he sent their stipends twice a year, and a suit of clothes once. He ordered alms and food to be distributed on Fridays to all who chose to partake in town or camp wheresoever he might be. He encouraged charity of all descriptions; and did not fail to commend his nobles for any generous acts which reached his ears, and thus promoted a disposition to do good among his public officers; saying, "You have laid a foundation of virtue; you will never repent it." He was firmly attached to the Mahomedan religion, and made a point of destroying all Hindoo temples. In the city of Mutra he caused musjids and bazars to be built opposite the bathing-stairs leading to the river, and ordered that no Hindoos should be allowed to bathe there. He forbade the barbers to shave the beards and heads of the inhabitants, in order to prevent the Hindoos following their usual practices at such pilgrimages. He also prohibited the procession of the spear, which took place annually in commemoration of the deeds of Salar Musaood, and put a stop to the custom of females going abroad, and making offering at Mahomedan shrines. Before he ascended the throne he had once a quarrel with a holy man, who maintained that it was highly improper for a king to interfere with the religion of his subjects, or to prevent them bathing at places to which they had been accustomed to resort for ages. The Prince drew his sword, and said, "Wretch! do you maintain the propriety of the Hindoo religion?" The holy man replied, "By no means: I speak from authority: kings should not persecute their subjects on any account." This answer pacified him. He reformed and new-modelled the establishments of all the mosques throughout his dominions, and gave great encouragement to learning, so that almost all his military officers were well educated men; and even Hindoos, who had hitherto never learned Persian, commenced in this reign to study Mahomedan literature. The profession of arms assumed under his government a new character. He made a point of ascertaining the qualities of every officer who was promoted, and particularly enquired into his origin and education. He established horse-posts throughout his country, and received accounts daily from every military detachment of his army in motion. Whenever it was necessary to issue proclamations, persons were sent in all directions to read them at the time of public devotion in the mosques. Reports of the armies, of the court, and of the principal cities were drawn up by authority, and read to the King daily, which enabled him to rectify at once any deviation from his orders. He very frequently went into long and tedious enquiries on intricate cases of law, and settled them in person. There are many wonderful stories related of his quick penetration and sound judgment. Among others, is the following: — There were two brothers private soldiers, who had procured some booty at Gualiar during the siege; among other articles of plunder were two large rubies, but of different shapes. One of the brothers determined to quit the service and return to his family at Dehly, while the other resolved to continue in the army; but he made over charge of his share of the booty to his brother, telling him to give it together with his ruby to his wife. After the war, on his return to Dehly, the soldier learned from his wife that she had never seen the ruby. The brother declared he had given it to her, and the parties were brought up before the Kazy Meean Bhoory. The Judge asked the man who had quitted the service, who saw him give the ruby to his brother's wife? he replied, several persons knew she had it, and he produced some brahmins of notoriously bad characters as witnesses, who, having been instructed what to say, gave evidence against the woman, who was told to go home and give the ruby to her husband. Owing to the ill treatment she received at home, she determined to lay her case before the King in person, He listened very attentively to the whole story, and then sending for the witnesses, all the parties acknowledged that they recollected perfectly the shape and size of the ruby given to the soldier's wife : a piece of wax was accordingly given to each witness, and being separated, they were directed to make models of the gem. Those of the two brothers corresponded ; but the models of the witnesses being dissimilar, the King concluded they could never have seen it; and having thus convicted them of perjury, they were induced to tell the truth, and the woman's innocence was proved. Sikundur Lody was himself a poet, and highly appreciated literary merit. During his reign many works were composed both in prose and verse; among others, is the Furhung Sikundry, whose author informs us this Prince reigned 28 years and five months. --- Source: [https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.50) · Pramāṇa