The Nāṣirī Generations 149.1.5

149.1.5

When the envoys returned, both armies were marshalled in ranks and made ready for the conflict. Sultan 'Ala-ud-Din called unto him two Pahlawans [champions] of his own, who were the leaders of the army, and famous warriors of the kingdom of Ghur, and both of them were named Kharmil. One was Kharmil-i-Sam, Husain, father of Nasir-ud-Din, Husain-i-Kharmil ; and the other Kharmil-i-Sam, Banji ; and both of them were famed in their day for their valour and prowess. He said unto them: — “ Bahram Shah has sent a message, saying, ‘ I bring elephants [against thee] and I have sent a reply, ' If thou bringest elephants, I bring the Kharmil.' This day it behoveth that each one of you champions should overthrow and bring an elephant to the ground.” They both kissed the ground and retired [to their posts] ; and, at a place which they call Kotah-baz, the two armies came to an encounter. When the battle commenced, both these champions dismounted, fastened up the skirts of their coats of mail, and entered the fight. When the elephants of Bahram Shah made a charge, each of those champions attacked an elephant, and got beneath the armour of the animals, and, with their poniards, ripped open the bellies of the elephants. Kharmil-i-Sam, Banji, remained under his elephant, and it fell upon him, and he and the elephant perished together. Kharmil-i-Sam, Husain, brought his elephant to the ground, and got away in safety, and mounted [his horse] again.