History of the Khaljis, A.D. 1290–1320 c4.22

c4.22

Ram Chandra had retreated into the fort but the lower city, especially the part which was later known as Katakah,¹⁶ was left at the mercy of the invader. It was thoroughly sacked and every single house in it was put to plunder.¹⁷ Influential Brahmans and chief merchants of the city were taken prisoner. 'Alāūddīn also captured thirty to forty elephants and a thousand horse from the stables of the Maratha king.¹⁸ In the meantime the crafty Turk circulated yet another rumour. He declared that his army was only a vanguard of the twenty thousand Imperial horsemen who were following behind. Ill-equipped with men, weapons and provision, Ram chandra could not have stood a siege for long in any case; now he gave up all hope of success. At last he sent messengers with terms for a treaty, accompanied with a few threats. He remained the reckless adventurer that Sing-hana might return any time and it was prudent on his part to leave the city before the latter came. He also pointed out to 'Alāuddīn that his retreat would lie through many Hindu kingdoms and could certainly be cut off. 'Alāuddīn also thought it prudent to accept whatever was offered and make haste for Kara. He patched up a truce, levied a war indemnity, and promised to leave the capital within a fortnight after releasing all the prisoners of war. But the terms of the treaty were yet to be fulfilled when events took a different turn.