History of the Khaljis, A.D. 1290–1320 c5.6

c5.6

In short, it was at Gwalior that Jalāluddīn first learnt that ‘Alāúddīn had marched to Devagiri, had sacked it, and was returning to Kara with a rich booty. The sultan was immensely pleased at the news of his nephew’s victory and to share his joy with his boon companions he held drink parties. Meanwhile news about the vast treasures ‘Alāúddīn was bringing from the Deccan was confirmed by successive reports. It was remoured that the treasures far exceeded those possessed by any monarch of Delhi in the past. The very idea of the immensity of the captured wealth made Jalāluddīn a little thoughtful. The prince had acted in an independent manner. He had not obtained the king's permission to invade Devagiri. Jalāluddīn held secret consultations with his most intimate barons like Malik Ahmad Chap, Malik Fakhruddīn Kūchī, Malik Kamāluddīn Abul Ma‘ālī and Malik Naṣīruddīn Kuhramī. He asked them to opine on the course of action to be adopted in such circumstances. Should he stay where he was and wait for ‘Alāuddīn to come to him, or march out to meet him on his way to Kara, or should he go back to Delhi?