[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) › 62 # Firishta's History (Gulshan-i Ibrāhīmī) 62: HOOMAYOON PADSHAH. (HIS SECOND REIGN.) History of the Rise of the Mahomedan Power in India (Briggs) 62 - **Language:** English ## Contents - [62.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.1) — 9 parts - [62.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.2) — 8 parts - [62.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.3) — 7 parts - [62.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.4) — 11 parts ### HOOMAYOON PADSHAH. (HIS SECOND REIGN.) ### [62.1.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.1.1) Hoomayoon is favourably received at the court of Persia — is supplied with an army to recover his dominions — takes Khorasan. — Overtures for a reconciliation with Kamran at Kabul rejected. — Kandahar defended by Askurry, but is taken. — Askurry is pardoned. — Kandahar made over to Beiram Khan Toorkoman. — Hoomayoon is joined by his brother Hindal, and by his cousin Yadgar Mirza — besieges Kabul. — Kamran evacuates Kabul, and flies. — Yadgar Mirza suffers death. — Hoomayoon proceeds to take Budukhshan. — Kabul reoccupied by Kamran — retaken by Hoomayoon. — Kamran takes the field, and is defeated by Hoomayoon. — The brothers are reconciled. — Hoomayoon is expelled from Budukhshan and Bulkh by the Oozbuks. — Kamran and Askurry go into rebellion — they are defeated. — Kamran flies to India — is seized by the Gukkurs in Punjab, and delivered over to Hoomayoon — is deprived of sight, and retires to Mecca. — Hoomayoon invades India — his general, Beiram Khan Toorkoman, defeats Sikundur Shah Soor, and advances to Dehly. — A second battle, in which Sikundur Shah is defeated, and flies to Bengal. — Hoomayoon in full possession of the kingdom of Dehly — falls from the terrace of his palace, and is killed. ### [62.1.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.1.2) We have already seen that Hoomayoon, having arrived at Kuzween in Persia, deputed Ameer Beiram Khan to the Persian court at Ispahan. That chieftain, accordingly, having waited on Shah Tamasp at the palace of Nilak, between the cities of Abhur and Sooltania, received an answer in dicating the King's wish to have an interview with Hoomayoon. The royal fugitive accepted the invitation with joy; and in the month of Jumad-ool-Awul, in the year 951, he was honourably received by Shah Tamasp, the son of Shah Ismael Sufvy, and was entertained with becoming dignity. ### [62.1.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.1.3) Shah Tamasp one day in conversation asked Hoomayoon by what means his weak enemy became so powerful? Hoomayoon replied, "By the enmity of my brothers." The Persian monarch then told him, "Your manner of treating brothers is not such as they ought to experience." This conversation occurred one day while the Kings were at dinner, and as soon as they had finished, the Prince Beiram Mirza, brother to Shah Tamasp, approached the latter with a basin and ewer for him to wash his hands. This ceremony being over, he turned to Hoomayoon, and resuming the discourse said, "This is the way you ought to have treated your brothers." Hoomayoon, out of compliment to the King, immediately assented, which so much offended the Prince Beiram Mirza, that he never forgave him while he resided at court: on the contrary, he took every opportunity to calumniate Hoomayoon, and frequently hinted that it was by no means the interest of Persia that a prince of the house of Teimoor should sit on the Indian throne. This opinion Beiram Mirza inculcated into all who had the King's ear, and it is believed by this means the prospects of Hoomayoon were so much injured, that he was at one time apprehensive of his life or of suffering imprisonment. ### [62.1.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.1.4) Meanwhile Sooltana Begum, the King's sister, and Kazy Jehan Kuzveeny, as also Noor-ood-Deen Hukeem, one of the King's privy counsellors, taking compassion on Hoomayoon's situation, united to effect a reconciliation, and to reinstate him in the favour of Shah Tamasp. The wit of the Sooltana was exerted on this occasion, who having presented the King with a copy of verses of her own composing, introduced the name of Hoomayoon, and extolled his devotion to Ally. Shah Tamasp, who was a zealous Sheea, a sect which differs from the Soonnies, in whose tenets Hoomayoon had been brought up, conceiving hopes of converting his guest, told his sister at the time, that if Hoomayoon could be brought to embrace and to enforce the Sheea doctrines in India, he would assist him to recover his empire. The Sooltana having acquainted Hoomayoon with these particulars, he assented, observing, "That he had always privately been well disposed to the Sheeas, out of which had partly originated the animosity of his brothers." ### [62.1.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.1.5) Shah Tamasp, soon after, in a private conference with Ameer Beiram Khan Toorkoman, enquired particularly as to the political condition of Hindoostan, and promised that his son Moorad Mirza (then an infant), with his general Boodagh Khan Kajar, should accompany Hoomayoon with ten thousand horse to attack and expel his brothers out of Kabul, Kandahar, and Budukhshan. Orders having been given for the requisite preparations, Hoomayoon took leave of Shah Tamasp. In the meanwhile, Hoomayoon requested to be allowed to make a tour through Tubreez and Ardbeel, to visit the tomb of Sheikh Suffy previously to proceeding on his expedition. To this the King assented, and gave orders to all governors through whose territories Hoomayoon passed to supply him with all necessaries, and to treat him in a manner becoming his rank. Hoomayoon, having performed this journey, joined the young Prince Moorad Mirza, with whom he proceeded towards Kandahar. Having, in the first instance, reduced the fort of Gurmseer, he caused the khootba to be read in his own name. Askurry Mirza, who governed the province for the Prince Kamran Mirza, on hearing of the approach of Hoomayoon, sent the young Prince Akbur to his uncle at Kabul, and prepared the fort of Kandahar to stand a siege. ### [62.1.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.1.6) Hoomayoon invested Kandahar on the 7th of Mohurrum, in the year 952. The siege lasted for six months, when he deputed Beiram Khan Toorkoman to wait on Kamran Mirza, then at Kabul. The Hazaras attacked Beiram Khan on the road; but they were defeated, and that chief obtaining an audience of Kamran, demanded the cession of Kandahar and its dependencies, at the same time requiring an unqualified resignation of all the provinces which he had usurped. Kamran refused to acknowledge the supremacy of Hoomayoon, and his messenger returned without effecting his object. The Persian troops with Hoomayoon now began to evince great impatience at the length of the siege of Kandahar, and to show discontent at being commanded by Moguls. These circumstances might have injured Hoomayoon seriously, had he not been joined at this time by several of his old officers, such as Mahomed Sooltan Mirza, Alugh Mirza, Kasim Hoossein Sooltan, Mirza Meeruk, Sheer Afkun Beg, Fuzeel Beg, and others, who, having quarrelled with Kamran Mirza, left his service. This opportune assistance did not come alone, for a part of the garrison of Kandahar at the same time also deserted, and joined him. These circumstances revived the spirits of Hoomayoon's army in proportion as they depressed those of the besieged, so that Askurry Mirza proposed to capitulate. Honourable terms were granted, the place surrendered, and Askurry Mirza received pardon for his former defection. ### [62.1.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.1.7) The fort of Kandahar, according to stipulation, was delivered over to the infant Persian prince Moorad Mirza, who, as the winter had set in, together with his generals, Boodagh Khan Afshar, Abool Futteh Sooltan Afshar, Soofy Wully, and Ahmud Sooltan Shamloo, took up their quarters in the fort, but refused admittance to the Mogul troops. This conduct created so much jealousy, that several of Hoomayoon's officers deserted him, and went to Kabul: among others, was Askurry Mirza, who, being suspected of disaffection, was pursued and brought back prisoner. ### [62.1.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.1.8) Hoomayoon, finding a state of inaction unpropitious to his affairs, marched towards Kabul; but hearing on the road of the death of the Persian prince Moorad Mirza at Kandahar, he returned, in order to obtain possession of the fort, as a place of security till he should make further conquest. The Persian generals refused to cede it, but Hoomayoon resolved if possible to secure it, and urged Beiram Khan Toorkoman, Alugh Mirza, and Hajy Mahomed to contrive some project for effecting this object. Hajy Mahomed Khan, and a few enterprising men, disguised like camel-drivers, having gained admission into the fort among some camels which were supplying it with provisions, fell upon the guards at the gates, and overpowered them, while Beiram Khan and Alugh Mirza rushing in at the same time, with a chosen body of horse, secured the fort. The Persian general, whose life was spared, returned by Hoomayoon's permission to Persia, and Beiram Khan was appointed to the government of Kandahar. ### [62.1.9](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.1.9) Hoomayoon instantly marched to Kabul, where he was joined by his brother Hindal Mirza, and by his cousin Yadgar, the son of Nasir Mirza, brother of Babur, who having fled from Shah Hoossein Arghoon in Sind, now arrived at Kabul. Hoomayoon encamped in the environs of the city, in sight of the army of his brother Kamran Mirza, and was every day joined by some deserters from him: among others was Bapous Beg, one of Kamran Mirza's principal generals, who coming over with his adherents, so much weakened the power of his master, that Kamran was compelled to retire within the town, which he shortly after evacuated without fighting, and fled to Ghizny. The King sent the prince Hindal Mirza in pursuit, and on the 10th of Rumzan, 952, entered Kabul, where he found his son Akbur, then four years old, with his mother, the Begum. Taking up his boy in his arms, he exclaimed, "Joseph by his envious brethren was cast into a well; but he was eventually exalted by Providence, as thou shalt be, to the summit of glory." ### [62.2.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.2.1) Kamran Mirza found the gates of Ghizny shut against him, and was compelled to seek refuge at Zemeen Dawur, among the Hazaras; but being ill received, he went to Bhukkur, to Shah Hoossein Arghoon, who conferred on him his daughter in marriage, and prepared to support his cause. Hoomayoon meanwhile left his son Akbur in Kabul, under the charge of Mahomed Ally Toghay, and marched in person, in the year 953, to reduce Budukhshan; while Yadgar Nasir Mirza, being convicted of an attempt to stir up a sedition in the army, suffered death. Hoomayoon, having passed the Hindoo Koosh, and encamped at Teergiran, was opposed by Sooliman Mirza with the forces of Budukhshan, who was defeated in the very first charge. The King marched from thence to Talikhan, where, having fallen sick, factions broke out in his army; but on his recovering at the end of two months, they soon subsided. ### [62.2.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.2.2) Kamran Mirza, having heard of Hoomayoon's attack on Budukhshan, made an excursion to Ghorebund, and falling in with a caravan of merchants on the road, robbed them of their camels, horses, and goods; after which, coming to Ghizny, he raised a party in his favour in that city, and cut off the governor, Zahid Beg. From Ghizny he proceeded by rapid marches to Kabul, where having arrived as the guards were opening the gates in the morning, he took the place by surprise. Mahomed Ally Toghay, the governor, was killed as he stood in his bath; and Fuzeel Beg and Mutroo, the Prince Akbur's foster brothers, were deprived of sight. Hissam-ood-Deen Ally, the son of Meer Khuleefa, was put to death, and the Prince Akbur delivered over to the charge of some eunuchs. Intelligence of these transactions reaching Hoomayoon, he intrusted the government of Budukhshan to Sooliman Mirza, and that of Koondooz to his brother Hindal Mirza: himself returning to Kabul, where having first defeated the advanced guard of Kamran Mirza, which opposed him at Ghorebund, he fell in subsequently with Sheer Afkun Beg and the main body, encamped at some distance in the rear. This army was also overthrown, and Sheer Afkun Beg fell in the action. Hoomayoon now proceeded to Kabul, and having sat down before that city, daily skirmishes ensued with the enemy. ### [62.2.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.2.3) Kamran Mirza hearing of a caravan passing, in which was a number of fine horses, he detached Sheer Ally Beg with a strong party to seize and bring it into the city. Hoomayoon gained intelligence of this design, and marched round the walls, to cut off Sheer Ally Beg's retreat, who was attacked and defeated with great loss. In this state of affairs, the Prince Sooliman Mirza from Budukhshan, Alugh Mirza, and Kasim Hoossein Sooltan, with several officers detached by Beiram Khan, the governor of Kandahar, as reinforcements, joined Hoomayoon, while Kurrachar Khan and Ooloos Beg, having deserted from the city, joined his army. Kamran Mirza, exasperated at the defection of these two officers, murdered the three sons of Ooloos Beg, and threw their mangled bodies over the walls; he also bound Kurrachar Khan's only son to a stake, and exposed him on the battlements. Hoomayoon gave his brothers to understand that if they put Kurrachar Khan's son to death, they should both suffer the same fate if taken. Kamran was in consequence deterred from his intended cruelty, and on that very night he evacuated the place, and fled towards the hills, leaving Hoomayoon a second time at liberty to take quiet possession of Kabul. On his retreat, Kamran Mirza was plundered and stripped of his very clothes by the Hazaras; but when they knew him, they conducted him in safety to Ghorebund. ### [62.2.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.2.4) Not conceiving himself safe among them, he hastened to Bulkh, where Peer Mahomed Khan, governor of that city, rendered him assistance in subduing Budukhshan, on which occasion they expelled the troops of Sooliman Mirza and his son Ibrahim. Kurrachar Khan, Ooolos Beg, and some other officers, being about this time offended with Khwaja Ghazy, Hoomayoon's vizier, insisted on his being disgraced, and on Kasim Hoossein Sooltan being appointed to his office. Hoomayoon, satisfied with the conduct of his minister, refused to accede to this demand, which induced them to desert Hoomayoon and to join Askurry Mirza, who had united with Kamran at Budukhshan. The King went in pursuit of the renegades; but being unable to overtake them, he returned to Kabul, and recalled Ibrahim Mirza and Hindal Mirza to court. On his way to join Hoomayoon, Ibrahim Mirza falling in by accident with Kumur Ally Sufvy, one of the renegade chiefs, cut him off, and brought his head to the King; and Hindal Mirza meeting with Sheer Ally, another of the same party, made him prisoner. ### [62.2.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.2.5) Meanwhile Kamran Mirza left Kurrachar Khan in Kooshoom, and went in person to Talikhan. Hoomayoon hearing of this arrangement, detached Hindal Mirza and Hajy Mahomed Koka, with a considerable force, to expel Kurrachar Khan; but he obtained intelligence of their approach, and acquainted Kamran Mirza in time to defeat their purpose; for by making rapid marches to Kooshoom, Kamran intercepted Hindal in the act of crossing the river at Talikhan. Hindal's troops being separated, he was defeated, and a great part of his division destroyed, with the loss of all his baggage. Hoomayoon, however, having in a few days advanced with his army from Kabul to support Hindal, Kamran fell back on Talikhan in such disorder as to be obliged to abandon all his booty and baggage; and on the following day found himself closely invested in Talikhan. Thus reduced to extremities, and despairing of aid from the Oozbuks, to whom he had applied, Kamran Mirza requested his brother's permission to retire from public life, and go on pilgrimage to Mecca. Hoomayoon consented; but both Kamran Mirza and Askurry Mirza proceeded only about ten parasangs on their way, when finding that Hoomayoon did not send troops to seize them, they repented of their resolution, and, trusting to his generosity, returned to their brother's camp, and threw themselves on his clemency. The King, on hearing of their approach, sent persons to meet them, and on their arrival, treated them with every respect; ### [62.2.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.2.6) after which they returned together to Kabul. In the year 956, Peer Mahomed Khan, the ruler of the Oozbuks, having made some incursions into Hoomayoon's dominions, the latter marched towards Bulkh to oppose them. On this occasion both Kamran Mirza and Askurry Mirza, who accompanied him, began to excite disaffection amongst his troops; but Hoomayoon took no effectual steps to prevent their designs. Arriving in the environs of Bulkh, Shah Mahomed Sooltan Oozbuk opposed Hoomayoon with three thousand horse, and checked his progress. On the second day the Oozbuks, being joined by Peer Mahomed Khan, Abdool Azeez Khan, the son of Abdoolla Khan Oozbuk, and the Princes of Khoozar, mustered thirty thousand horse, with which they gave battle to Hoomayoon. Sooliman Mirza, Hindal Mirza, and Hajy Mahomed Koka opposed and defeated the advanced parties of the Oozbuks, and even pressed Peer Mahomed Khan so severely, that he was compelled to retreat within the walls of Bulkh. ### [62.2.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.2.7) The King, desirous of following up the blow, wished to lay close siege to the place; but on this occasion he suffered his own judgment to be over-ruled by some of his generals, who, being suspicious of Kamran Mirza, advised him to encamp at some distance from Bulkh, which, they concluded, must surrender in the course of a few days. This fatal advice was accordingly adopted, and there being no encamping ground near, the King was obliged to fall back to a considerable distance. The troops, unable to conceive the cause of retreating, fancied there must be immediate danger; while the enemy, construing the retrograde movement into a real flight, sallied, and by this mistake led to the disaster which followed. The Oozbuks fell on the divisions of Sooliman Mirza and Hoossein Koolly Sooltan, who commanded the rear-guard, and forced them to retire on the main body, where the King commanded in person. Hoomayoon bravely opposed them hand to hand, and coming in contact with the Oozbuk officer who led the attack, dismounted him. He was gallantly supported by his brother, Hindal Mirza, Tardy Beg Khan, and Tooluk Khan Kocheen; but finding themselves deserted by the troops, they were reluctantly compelled to save themselves by flight. After this unfortunate affair Hoomayoon retreated to Kabul, on the road to which place he was deserted by Kamran Mirza, who had taken no part in the action. ### [62.2.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.2.8) Hoomayoon, justly resenting the conduct of his brother, wrote to Ally Sheer Khan, one of Kamran's officers, making him great promises to seize his master, and send him prisoner to court; at the same time, he detached Sooliman Mirza and Hindal Mirza in pursuit. Kamran laid aside his state, and intended to escape by the route of Zohak and Bamyan, through the desert of the Hazaras towards Sind; but Kurrachar Khan and Hoossein Koolly Sooltan, who remained in Hoomayoon's camp, wrote to him privately, and acquainted him with all that passed at the King's court. As the greatest part of Hoomayoon's troops were detached from his person, these officers advised Kamran to attack Hoomayoon, promising to join him in the action. Kamran, availing himself of these overtures, returned by the Kupchak pass to Kabul, where he was opposed by Hoomayoon. Kurrachar Khan and his adherents went over to Kamran Mirza in the commencement of the action, according to their promise, and attacked the division in which Hoomayoon commanded, who with a few faithful retainers fought with desperation. Peer Mohamed Akta and Ahmud, the son of Hoossein Koolly Sooltan, were killed by the side of the King, who himself received a sabre wound in the head. At this time, too, his horse failing him, he forced to quit the field, and fled to Bamyan, from whence he proceeded to Budukhshan. Kamran Mirza thus obtained possession of Kabul the third time. ### [62.3.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.3.1) Hoomayoon was now in great distress for money to pay the few troops who adhered to him, and was obliged to borrow the horses, camels, and merchandise of some great caravans, with which he mounted his cavalry, and paid his troops. He also sent privately Shah Bodagh Khan, Tooluk Khan Kocheen, Mujnoon Khan, and others, to the number of ten persons, to support his interest at Kabul, and to send him intelligence of what passed in that city. Of all these persons, Tooluk Khan alone remained true to him. Meanwhile, Sooliman Mirza, Ibrahim Mirza, and Hindal Mirza, who had gone in pursuit of Kamran, returned with their troops to join the King, who in about forty days found himself in a condition to make an attempt again to recover his kingdom; for which purpose he marched towards Kabul. Kamran Mirza opposed him on the banks of the Punjshir river; but being defeated with great slaughter, he shaved his head and beard, and escaped in the disguise of a mendicant to the mountains of Lumghan. Askurry Mirza was taken prisoner, and Kurrachar Khan fell in the battle. This victory once more enabled Hoomayoon to enter Kabul in triumph. Here he devoted himself to pleasure for one whole year, when he was roused by intelligence that Kamran Mirza was again in his vicinity, at the head of fifteen hundred horse, while some of his officers, leaving him, went to Ghizny. Hoomayoon now marched against Kamran, who fled to the Indus; and the former returned without effecting any other object. ### [62.3.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.3.2) Kamran, hearing of his brother's retreat, returned among the Meimundy Afghans, where he was shortly afterwards joined by parties of Khuleelzies and Dawoodzies from Lumghan. Hoomayoon again took the field; and wrote to Beiram Khan Toorkoman, who still held the government of Kandahar, to march and seize those officers who had retired to Ghizny; for it appears they had invited Kamran Mirza to join them, for which purpose he was now marching by the route of Pishawur, Bungush, and Goordaz. Beiram Khan, however, having reached Ghizny before Kamran, conciliated the chiefs, and brought them to Kabul; and Kamran being disappointed of his expected succours, retired to Pishawur, while Hoomayoon proceeded to Kabul. Before his arrival, Hajy Mahomed Koka, one of the disaffected chiefs, found means to escape to Ghizny, from whence he was persuaded to return. At this time Askurry Mirza preferred a petition to the King, soliciting his release from prison, and permission to perform a pilgrimage to Mecca. He was sent for the present, by way of greater security, to Sooliman Mirza, governor of Budukhshan; but his request was subsequently acceded to, and he died in the year 961 (A. D. 1554), on his way across the deserts of Arabia. He left one daughter, who was afterwards married to Yoosoof Khan, an inhabitant of Mushed. ### [62.3.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.3.3) Kamran Mirza continued to raise troops among the Afghans, and maintained a private correspondence with Hajy Mahomed Koka at Ghizny. This correspondence being detected, the Hajy suffered death. Hoomayoon again marched against Kamran Mirza; but was surprised in his camp near Khybur, in a night attack, on the 21st of Zeekaad 958, on which occasion Hindal Mirza lost his life. Kamran gained little advantage by this accident; for being subsequently defeated, he was obliged to seek shelter among the Afghans. After this success, Hoomayoon returned to Kabul, and out of affection to the memory of Hindal Mirza, who had expiated his former disobedience by his blood, he gave the daughter of that Prince, Ruzeea Sooltana, to his son Akbur in marriage. He conferred on them at the same time all the wealth of Hindal, and appointed Akbur to the command of his uncle's troops, and to the government of Ghizny. A few months after these events, the Afghans again rose in favour of Kamran Mirza; but Hoomayoon invaded their country, and laid it waste with fire and sword, till they abandoned Kamran's cause, and expelled him from their country. Kamran, now flying to Hindoostan, was induced to solicit an asylum with Sulim Shah Soor; but meeting with a cold reception there, he departed from the court of Dehly, and sought protection from the Raja of Nagrakote; being expelled thence also, he joined Sooltan Adam Gukkur in the Punjab. ### [62.3.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.3.4) At this period, one Mirza Heidur Doghlat reigned in Kashmeer, who requested the assistance of Hoomayoon in quelling some disturbances in his kingdom. Hoomayoon, accordingly, marching towards India, crossed the Indus. On this occasion, Sooltan Adam Gukkur, apprehensive of Hoomayoon's resentment in case he afforded protection to Kamran, seized that Prince, and acquainted Hoomayoon he was ready to deliver him into his hands. Moonyim Khan was deputed to Sooltan Adam for the purpose of receiving him, and Kamran was accordingly brought to the royal presence. The Mogul chiefs were all of opinion that he should suffer death, in order to prevent further disturbances in the government; but Hoomayoon, unwilling to stain his hands in his brother's blood, was content to deprive him of sight. Some days after the sentence was carried into effect, Hoomayoon went to see him. Kamran immediately arose, and walking some steps forward to meet him, said, "The glory of the King will not be diminished by visiting the unfortunate." Hoomayoon burst into tears, and wept bitterly. Kamran Mirza eventually obtained permission to proceed to Mecca, by the way of Sind, and having resided there three years, died a natural death in the year 964. (A. D. 1556.) He left three daughters and one son, Abool Kasim Mirza, who, some time after his father's decease, was put to death by order of Akbur, in the fort of Gualiar. ### [62.3.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.3.5) Hoomayoon, being now free from the restless spirit of Kamran Mirza, began to extend his dominions, and turned his thoughts towards Kashmeer. Sulim Shah Soor, the King of Dehly, hearing of this, advanced to the Indus; and Hoomayoon's officers represented to him, that, if he should enter Kashmeer, there being but one pass by which he could retreat, Sulim Shah might cut him off. Hoomayoon, deaf to their representations, persisted in his resolution; but a mutiny arose in his army, and the greater part of his officers refused to proceed, while others actually returned to Kabul. Hoomayoon was consequently compelled to give up his purpose, and recrossed the Indus. On his retreat, he caused the fort of Bikram to be built, wherein he left a garrison under Sikundur Khan Oozbuk. The King, having arrived in Kabul, sent his son Akbur to his government of Ghizny, under the charge of Julal-ood-Deen Mahomed, Vizier. In the year 961, the King had another son born to him in Kabul, whom he named Mahomed Hukeem Mirza, an account of whom will appear in the reign of Akbur. ### [62.3.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.3.6) In the course of this year, Hoomayoon became jealous of Beiram Khan, owing to the calumny of some of his courtiers. They stated that he was carrying on intrigues with the Persian government, and the King thought it necessary to march to Kandahar. Beiram Khan, conscious of his innocence, came out when he heard of his approach, with five or six attendants only, to congratulate Hoomayoon on his arrival, and to lay his offerings at his feet; and the latter, perceiving how he had been deceived, satisfied Beiram Khan for the reason of his coming, and spent two months with him. During this time, the enemies of Beiram Khan were disgraced, and himself loaded with favours. Beiram Khan, however, apprehensive that insinuations like those which had lately been thrown out, if repeated, might at last operate on his master's mind, earnestly entreated that the government might be bestowed on some other chief, and that he might be employed at court. Hoomayoon refused his consent, conceiving such a measure might injure Beiram Khan's reputation; and when they parted, the charge of the government of the district of Zumeen Dawur was made over to him, into which he removed two of his own dependents. ### [62.3.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.3.7) It was at this time that letters were received from some of the inhabitants of Dehly and Agra, acquainting Hoomayoon of the death of Sulim Shah Soor. They also stated that the Afghan tribes being engaged in a civil war, a favourable opportunity presented itself for Hoomayoon to return and take possession of his kingdom. Being in no condition to raise a sufficient army for the enterprise, Hoomayoon paid little attention to the invitation, and became extremely melancholy. Being one day on a hunting party, he told some of his nobles, that he was very uneasy in his mind regarding Hindoostan. One of those who were in favour of the enterprise, observed, that there was an old method of divination, by sending a person before, and asking the names of the three first persons he met, from which a conclusion good or bad might be drawn. The King, being naturally superstitious, humoured the fancy, and sent three horsemen in front, who were to come back and acquaint him of the answers they received. The first horseman who returned, said that he had met with a traveller whose name was Dowlut. The next said that he met a man who called himself Moorad. And the third, that he met with a villager whose name was Saadut. ### [62.4.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.4.1) The King evinced great joy upon this occasion, and though he could only collect fifteen thousand horse, determined to undertake the expedition into India. Having left Moonyim Khan in charge of the government of Kabul, and making over his youngest son, Mahomed Hukeem Mirza, to his hands, Hoomayoon, in the month of Suffur, 962, commenced his march from his capital. He was overtaken at Pishawur by Beiram Khan, with a body of veterans from Kandahar, and on the day he crossed the Indus he appointed Beiram Khan his general in chief, and ordered him to lead the advance, accompanied by Khizr Khan, Tardy Beg Khan, Sikundur Khan Oozbuk, and Ally Koolly Khan Sheebany. ### [62.4.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.4.2) On the approach of the Mogul army, Tartar Khan, the Afghan governor of Punjab, commanding the new fort of Rohtas, having evaat his feet; and the latter, perceiving how he had been deceived, satisfied Beiram Khan for the reason of his coming, and spent two months with him. During this time, the enemies of Beiram Khan were disgraced, and himself loaded with favours. Beiram Khan, however, apprehensive that insinuations like those which had lately been thrown out, if repeated, might at last operate on his master's mind, earnestly entreated that the government might be bestowed on some other chief, and that he might be employed at court. Hoomayoon refused his consent, conceiving such a measure might injure Beiram Khan's reputation, and when they parted, the charge of the government of the district of Zumeen Dawur was made over to him, into which he removed two of his own dependents. ### [62.4.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.4.3) It was at this time that letters were received from some of the inhabitants of Dehly and Agra, acquainting Hoomayoon of the death of Sulim Shah Soor. They also stated that the Afghan tribes being engaged in a civil war, a favourable opportunity presented itself for Hoomayoon to return and take possession of his kingdom. Being in no condition to raise a sufficient army for the enterprise, Hoomayoon paid little attention to the invitation, and became extremely melancholy. Being one day on a hunting party, he told some of his nobles, that he was very uneasy in his mind regarding Hindoostan. One of those who were in favour of the enterprise, observed, that there was an old method of divination, by sending a person before, and asking the names of the three first persons he met, from which a conclusion good or bad might be drawn. The King, being naturally superstitious, humoured the fancy, and sent three horsemen in front, who were to come back and acquaint him of the answers they received. The first horseman who returned, said that he had met with a traveller whose name was Dowlut. The next said that he met a man who called himself Moorad. And the third, that he met with a villager whose name was Saadut. ### [62.4.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.4.4) The King evinced great joy upon this occasion, and though he could only collect fifteen thousand horse, determined to undertake the expedition into India. Having left Moonim Khan in charge of the government of Kabul, and making over his youngest son, Mahomed Hukeem Mirza, to his hands, Hoomayoon, in the month of Suffur, commenced his march from his capital. He was overtaken at Pishawur by Beiram Khan, with a body of veterans from Kandahar, and on the day he crossed the Indus he appointed Beiram Khan his general in chief, and ordered him to lead the advance, accompanied by Khizr Khan, Tardy Beg Khan, Sikundur Khan Oozbuk, and Ally Koolly Khan Sheebany. On the approach of the Mogul army, Tartar Khan, the Afghan governor of Punjab, commanding the new fort of Rohtas, having evacuated it, was closely pursued to Lahore, which the Afghans also vacating, Hoomayoon entered it without opposition. From Lahore he despatched Beiram Khan to Surhind, who occupied all the country up to that point. Hoomayoon having received intelligence that a body of Afghans, commanded by Shahbaz Khan and Nuseer Khan, were assembled at Depalpoor, ordered Shah Abool Maaly (a Syud, and an inhabitant of Toormooz, whom he used to honour with the appellation of son,) with a strong detachment against them. Shah Abool Maaly overthrew the enemy, and returned with much booty to Lahore. ### [62.4.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.4.5) Sikundur Shah Soor in the mean time had ordered Tartar Khan and Hubeeb Khan, with an army of thirty or forty thousand horse, from Dehly against Hoomayoon. Notwithstanding the great superiority in number of this force, Beiram Khan Toorkoman resolved to hazard an action, and having advanced boldly to meet the Indian army, pitched his camp on the banks of the Sutlooj at the town of Machywara. It being cold weather, the Indian Afghans kindled great fires of wood in their camp at night, of which Beiram Khan took advantage, and crossed the river with a thousand chosen horse. He now advanced to their camp without being discovered, when he began to gall those who crowded round the fires with arrows, which threw them into disorder. The Afghans (notorious for blundering), instead of extinguishing their fires, which prevented them from seeing their enemies, who had a fair view of them, threw on more wood; and the whole of Beiram Khan's army having crossed the river, fell upon them on all sides and routed them. The Afghans on this occasion lost all their elephants, their baggage, and a number of horses. Beiram Khan sent the elephants to Hoomayoon at Lahore, and remaining encamped at Machywarra, he dispersed detachments in all directions, and occupied all the country up to the walls of Dehly. The King was greatly rejoiced when he heard of this victory, and conferred on Beiram Khan the title of Khan Khanan. ### [62.4.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.4.6) When the news of Tartar Khan's defeat reached Sikundur Shah Soor, he exacted an oath of fidelity from his officers, and marched with eighty thousand horse, a large train of artillery, and a number of elephants, towards Punjab. Beiram Khan advanced as far as the fort of Nowshera, and prepared it for a siege by laying in provisions. Sikundur Shah Soor encamped before the place, and Beiram Khan sent continual letters to Lahore, to hasten the march of Hoomayoon, who soon after joined. Beiram Khan in the interim made repeated sallies from the city, and greatly distressed the enemy in his camp. On the last day of Rujub, while the Prince Akbur was visiting the pickets of the camp, the Afghans drew up their forces and offered battle. ### [62.4.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.4.7) The challenge was not refused, and the young Prince communicated the information with joy to his father. Hoomayoon gave the command of the right wing to Beiram Khan, and the left to Sikundur Khan Oozbuk, composed of the troops of Abdoolla Khan Oozbuk, Shah Abool Maaly, Ally Koolly Khan, and Tardy Beg Khan; these troops were directed to begin the action. The left wing having charged according to the orders which it received, the enemy were broken, and never after recovered from their confusion. The battle continued to rage for some time, during which Hoomayoon and Beiram Khan displayed great good conduct, while the Prince Akbur was distinguished by feats of personal courage. The Moguls, animated by the conduct of that young hero, seemed to forget that they were mortal. The enemy was driven off the field with slaughter, and their King, Sikundur Shah Soor, fled to the mountains of Sewalik. ### [62.4.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.4.8) This victory decided the fate of the empire; and the kingdom of Dehly fell for ever from the hands of the Afghans. On the following day Sikundur Khan Oozbuk and some other chiefs were detached to take possession of Dehly and Agra, which they occupied without opposition. Hoomayoon conferred the government of Punjab on Shah Abool Maaly, and ordered him to pursue the fugitives. In the month of Rumzan, Hoomayoon re-entered Dehly in triumph, and became a second time King of Hindoostan. Beiram Khan, to whose valour and talent the King was principally indebted for his restoration, was rewarded with the first offices in the state and had princely estates assigned to him. Tirdy Beg Khan was appointed governor of Dehly; Agra was assigned to Sikundur Khan Oozbuk; and Ally Koolly Khan was sent to Meerut and Sumbhul; to which province he departed with a considerable force. Shah Abool Maaly, on account of disputes with the generals of his army in Punjab, had given time to Sikundur Soor to rally his forces; and the King accordingly permitted his son Akbur, under the direction of Beiram Khan, to proceed against him. Much about this time a man of low birth, who became famous under the name of Kumbur-e-Diwana, raised an insurrection in Sumbhul, and, collecting a large force, plundered the provinces of the Dooab. He was, however, defeated and slain on the 5th of Rubbee-ool-Awul, 963, by Ally Koolly Khan, and the revolt was totally suppressed. ### [62.4.9](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.4.9) On the evening of the 7th of Rubbee-ool-Awul, Hoomayoon, after walking on the terrace of the library at Dehly for some time, sat down to enjoy the fresh air, after which, while in the act of descending the steps to go below, the moazin or crier of the royal chapel announced the hour of prayer. The King, as is usual, stood still on the occasion, and having repeated the creed of Islam, sat down on the second step till the crier had done. When about to rise, and endeavouring to support himself on a staff he held in his hand, it slipped along the marble, and the King fell headlong over. He was taken up insensible, and laid upon his bed, and although he soon recovered his speech, the physicians administered to him in vain; till, on the 11th of the month, about sunset, his soul took its flight to Paradise. He was buried in the new city, on the banks of the river; and a splendid monument was erected over him some years after, by his son Akbur. Hoomayoon died at the age of fifty-one, after a reign of twenty-five years, both in Kabul and India. ### [62.4.10](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.4.10) The mildness and benevolence of Hoomayoon's character were excessive, if there can be excess in such noble qualities. He was a prince of great intrepidity, and possessed the virtues of charity and munificence in a very high degree. He was skilled in the science of geography, and delighted in the society of learned men. He was regular in his devotions and ablutions, and never pronounced the name of God without having performed the latter ceremony. It is said on one occasion, having cause to send for one Meer Abd-ool-Hye, whose name signifies "Slave of the Eternal," he called him only Abdool, "Slave of," leaving out the last word because he had not bathed that morning, and begged his pardon accordingly. ### [62.4.11](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62.4.11) Hoomayoon was of elegant stature, and of a bronze complexion. He professed the religion of Huneef, of the Soony persuasion. Kamran Mirza and some other Choghtay nobles believed him to be of the Sheea persuasion, because he gave such encouragement to Kuzilbashies and the inhabitants of Eerak to join his standard from his earliest years, so that many persons of eminence in Khorassan, devotees of the holy family, found favour with him. Among others was Beiram Khan, Toorkoman, his most intimate and attached friend, who professed the religion of the Imams. After the King ascended the throne, he elevated many Kuzilbashies (Persians) to high stations. It is said that Kamran Mirza was fond of talking to him on the subject of religion; so that one day, while they were riding together on their retreat from Hindoostan towards Lahore, they observed a dog lift up his leg against a tombstone: Kamran remarked, "I conclude the man who is buried there is a Rafzy" (heterodox). Hoomayoon replied, "Yes, no doubt; the dog is an orthodox brute." They were much in the habit of joking on such subjects; but the truth is, that on these occasions he merely wished to annoy Kamran, and to please Beiram Khan and those about him. There can be no doubt he was of the Hunefy persuasion, as appears from several of his poems, which, though scarce, are still extant. --- Source: [https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.62) · Pramāṇa