The Aravidu Dynasty of Vijayanagara, Vol. I v1.c12.20

v1.c12.20

Ibn Batuta speaks of one of the battles that took place at Madura between Vira Ballala and Sultan Ghiath-ud-din in 1342. This was the last battle fought by the brave Hoysala Monarch. He says that Vira Ballala made an attack on the town of Cobban², which belonged to the Madura Sultan and was garrisoned with six thousand soldiers. Having defeated them, he invested the town. "This was reported to the Sultan", says Ibn Batuta, "and the town was nearly lost. He then marched out with his forces amounting to seven thousand, every man of whom took off his turban and hung it upon the neck of his horse, signifying that they were bent upon death. They then made a charge upon the infidel king, while his men were taking their midday repose; and routed them thoroughly. The greater majority were killed; not one escaping except the cavalry and some of those who concealed themselves in the woods, escaping. The Sultan (viz. King Vira Ballala) was taken prisoner, his wealth seized, himself afterwards killed, and I saw his body hanging against a wall in the town" 3.