History of the Qaraunah Turks in India c11.103

c11.103

As has already been said, after the successful revolt of the Hindus of the far South, Gujarat and Devagiri alone were left in possession of Muhammad Tughluq. The principality of Madura continued to enjoy its independence, although it appears from the break in the coinage from 1345 to 1357 A.D. that it had to wage frequent wars against its Hindu neighbours. Muhammad Tughluq was exasperated at his own failures; he was unable to eradicate the ubiquitous spirit of revolt that pervaded his empire, nor could he bring to book his former vassal, the Sultan of Madura. Indeed, the task of bringing him to obedience had been rendered difficult, if not impossible, by the powerful Hindu kingdoms which were interposed between Dihli and Madura. Disappointment soured his temper and he began to think that his nobles and subjects were the source of all his misfortunes. It is really strange that a talented ruler like Muhammad should persevere in a policy of mistrust and fail to receive the warning which experience furnished in an unmistakable manner. He employed in his service men of low birth unfit to guide him in matters of state-policy.⁴⁷ Like all despotic rulers he desired to