The Cambridge History of India, Vol. III: Turks and Afghans v3.c20.280

v3.c20.280

The strength of Ranthambhor, formerly an outpost of the Muslims, but long since a stronghold of the Hindus, had defied Balban’s arms and daunted Fīrūz; its ruler, Hamīr Deo, who boasted descent from Prithvī Rāj, had recently insulted ‘Alā-ud-dīn by harbouring the rebellious New Muslims, and the king resolved to punish him. Ulugh Khān and Nusrat Khān were sent against him and, having first reduced Jhāīn, encamped before Ranthambhor. The death of Nusrat Khān, who was slain by a stone from a *balista*, discouraged the army, and a sortie by Hamīr Deo drove Ulugh Khān back to Jhāīn. ‘Alā-ud-dīn marched from Delhi to his aid but halted for some days at Tilpat to enjoy his favourite recreation, the chase. After a long day’s sport he and his small escort were benighted at a distance from his camp, and when he rose in the morning he ordered his men to drive some game towards him while he awaited it, seated on a stool. His absence had caused some anxiety, and as he awaited the game his brother’s son, Ākat Khān, arrived in search of him with a hundred horse, New Muslims of his own retinue. Ākat Khān’s ambition was suddenly kindled by the sight of his uncle’s defenceless condition and he ordered his Mughul archers to draw their bows on him. The king defended himself bravely, using his stool as a shield, and a faithful slave named Mānik stood before him and intercepted the arrows, but he was wounded in the arm and fell. Some foot soldiers of his escort ran up and, drawing their swords, stood round him, crying out that he was dead. Ākat Khān, without waiting to ascertain whether they spoke the truth, galloped back to the camp, announced that he had slain ‘Alā-ud-dīn, and demanded the allegiance of the army. He held a hurried and informal court, at which some officers rashly came forward and offered him their congratulations, but when he attempted to enter the harem the more cautious guards refused to admit him until he should produce his uncle’s head.