The Cambridge History of India, Vol. IV: The Mughul Period v4.c13.34.2

v4.c13.34.2

Before it reached its destination the rebels informed Hindāl that while they were prepared to give him support if he would stand forth as emperor they would join Kāmrān if he declined. Hindāl now decided to revolt, but was for a few days held back by the remonstrances of Shaikh Phūl,¹ whom Humāyūn sent from Gaur on first hearing of Hindāl’s departure from his post. The Shaikh, like his more celebrated brother Muhammad Ghaus, was a renowned religious teacher and was Humāyūn’s own spiritual adviser. His message of remonstrance accompanied by offers of forgiveness and affection seemed at first likely to recall Hindāl to allegiance. Orders were issued to equip and despatch forces to raise the siege of Jaunpur. Unfortunately Nūr-ud-dīn arrived while these measures were being expedited and he was able to destroy the whole effect of the Shaikh’s mission, and Hindāl was persuaded once more to accept the support of the rebel nobles, for which they demanded the sacrifice of Shaikh Phūl as he had caused Hindāl to break his former promises to them. They hoped that Hindāl, involved in such a disgraceful crime, would be irretrievably separated from Humāyūn, whom they hated and despised. A frivolous charge of conspiracy with Sher Khān² was laid and the Shaikh was executed under the orders of Nūr-ud-dīn. Such a crime revolted the ladies of the palace and all officers who still remained faithful to Humāyūn.