A History of the Mahrattas v1.c15.79

v1.c15.79

A.D. 1674.—In the month of February, preparations being completed, Abdool Khureem marched with a large force towards Panalla.² He had already arrived in the neighbourhood of that place, when Pertab Rao, with the principal part of the horse, at last made his appearance. Sivajee instantly sent him word that he was greatly displeased by his conduct, and desired that he would ‘never come into his presence until he had plundered the army of Beejapoor.’ This message was conveyed to Pertab Rao when about to commence the attack. Stung with the reproach, he departed from his usual method, and at once closed with the enemy.³ In a rash charge on a compact body of the Beejapoor troops, he was cut down with many of his men, and the main body of his army completely routed. Abdool Khureem pursued them with great slaughter, until the fugitives found shelter under the guns of Panalla. But, whilst this took place in the main body, one party of Mahrattas under Hussajee Mohitey, a commander of five thousand horse, had not been engaged. They came up when the Beejapoor troops were dispersed in the careless ardour of pursuit, and falling upon them unexpectedly, completely changed the issue of the contest. No troops are so soon rallied as Mahrattas on the slightest turn of fortune in their favour. The fugitives became the pursuers; victory succeeded defeat, and Abdool Khureem was again compelled to retire with disgrace to Beejapoor.⁴ In the division of Hussajee Mohitey, two officers greatly distinguished themselves; they were promoted in consequence, and their names, Suntajee Ghorepuray and Dhunnajee Jadow, afterwards became renowned in the annals of Maharashtra. Sivajee greatly extolled the conduct of Hussajee Mohitey, and appointed him Surnobut, with the title of Humbeer Rao.¹ The services of Pertab Rao Goozur were not forgotten; Sivajee mourned his loss, made handsome provision for his relations and dependants, and married his younger son, Raja Ram, to the daughter of the deceased. Pertab Rao’s death was followed by that of Abajee Sonedeo; Sivajee had declared that no office should be hereditary in a family unfit for the employment; but Ramchundur Punt, the son of Abajee, being qualified to fill the vacant situation, he was appointed Muzzimdar.