History of the Khaljis, A.D. 1290–1320 c21.13

c21.13

Now, neither of the conclusions arrived at by the European writers is convincing. No contemporary historian has specifically stated the real caste or tribe of Khusrau Khan. Barani, and following upon him some later historians repeatedly abuse Khusrau and in the course of their personal aspersions add one of low origin. On the contrary there are facts which go to prove that the Barvaris were a people of strong mettle and independent disposition. Amir Khusrau, a contemporary authority, praises the Barvaris for their gallantry and sacrifice. He says that they were men brave and courageous, and were employed by the Rajas of Hindustan for whom they were always prepared to lay down their lives.¹⁰ Barani also testifies to their readiness to lay down their lives while describing Targhi's insurrection in Gujarat in the time of Muhammad Tughlaq. He says that in the battle near Kadi Pattan about one hundred rebels attacked the sultan's body guard like the brave Baravān-i-Fidā'iyān, who carried their lives on the palm of their hands".¹¹ Hisāmuddīn, according to Barani, planned a revolt against Qutbuddin Mubarak with the help of all the renowned Barvārs of Gujarat.¹² "The renowned Barvārs" cannot belong to a low caste because a low caste cannot be renowned in Hindu society. Ferishtah at one place clearly says that Khusrau Khan belonged to the Pahalvāns of Gujarat.¹³ Ibn Battūtah also praises the Barvārs and says that "Khusrau Khan gathered a troop 'of Indians chosen from among the bravest and greatest, his brother the Khan-i-Khanān was among them".¹⁴ In these circumstances it is impossible to believe that they belonged to the low caste of Dhed and Mahār. The victories of Khusrau Khan in south India and the gallant fight he and his relations put against Ghāzi Tughlaq clearly show that he did not belong to a low caste.