The Dynasties of the Kanarese Districts of the Bombay Presidency from the Earliest Historical Times to the Musalman Conquest c11.8

c11.8

One of the chief leaders in the campaign against Jalál Khán was Máhmúd Gawán, who held the office of prime minister as well as the government of Bijápur. This able man distinguished himself highly in the reigns of Alla-ud-dín II. and Humáyún Shah Bahamani, but the greatest of his exploits was reserved for the reign of Muhammad Sháh II. In the historical sketch of Kolhápur an account is given of Máhmúd Gawán’s campaign in Kolhápur and Vishálgad; after which he proceeded to attack the maritime possessions of the rája of Vijayánagar, and with such success that he took Goa in A.D. 1470. This led to the siege and capture of Belgaum; for, at the instigation of the Vijayanagar king Birkána Ray, that is Vikram Ray, rája of the fortress of Belgaum, marched or sent troops in 1472, together with the Hindu chief of Bankápur, to retake Goa. On this Muhammad Sháh collected his forces and moved against Belgaum, “a fortress of great strength, surrounded by a deep wet ditch, and near it a pass, the only approach to which was fortified by redoubts.”² According to the Musalmán historian, Birkana Ray, who commanded the fort in person, at first asked for terms, which were refused. The Hindu chief then defended himself with great vigour, and effectually prevented the enemy from filling the wet ditch, in which lay the principal strength of the fort. The besiegers on this changed their tactics and tried the effect of mining, a mode of operation not hitherto used in the Dakhan. The new plan proved successful, three mines being sprung which made practicable breaches: these were immediately stormed; and notwithstanding the gallant defence made by the garrison and the severe losses inflicted on the besiegers, the latter succeeded in gaining the ramparts. The inner citadel had yet to be carried, but Birkana Ray, despairing of being able to offer an effectual resistance, disguised himself and was admitted to the presence of the king as a messenger from the Hindu chief. He then drew the rim of his turban round his neck and discovered himself, saying that he had come with his family to kiss the foot of the throne. The king, pleased with this exhibition of confidence, admitted him into the order of nobility.