History of the Khaljis, A.D. 1290–1320 c2.s1.6

c2.s1.6

By forced marches Arkalī Khān arrived on river Kalaibnagar, Kālī Nahar of the modern maps.¹⁶ The enemy had already reached the other bank and had seized the boats lying on the river. In spite of this initial precaution of Chhajjū Arkalī Khān managed to cross Kālī Nahar, which was then in spate, and fell upon the enemy. The "rice-eating" Hindustani foot-soldiers, who formed the advance compains of the rebel were taken by surprise and completely routed. Malik Chhajjū fled towards Chupāla.¹⁷ The imperial troops plundered his camp for two whole days and then started in his pursuit. Soon they overtook him and Chhajjū was compelled to give battle. During the engagement the centre of the army was commanded by Arkalī Khān himself. He was helped by his two cousions 'Alāūddīn and Qutlagh Tighīn,¹⁸ the latter of whom could "split a spear with an arrow." The right and left wings were put under the charge of Mīr Mubārak and Malik Muḥammad respectively.¹⁹ Malik Chhajjū rallied his scattered troops and fought a desparate battle which lasted for a whole day and "during which the sword found no rest." At night when Chhajjū heard that the sultan was himself coming to join Arkalī Khān his heart gave way. He fled away "concealing his departure by the beating of drums, as if he was preparing to renew the combat on the morrow." The remnant of his troops sought refuge in unconditional surrender. They were pardoned.