History of the Qaraunah Turks in India c11.222.1

c11.222.1

It was during these disorders in the Deccan that the foundation of the Bahmani kingdom was laid. The small principality created out of the fief of Daulatabad developed formidable strength in course of time, challenged the neighbouring Hindu power and aspired to bring the whole of the Deccan under its rule. The origin of Hasan Kāngū, the founder of the dynasty, is a matter of considerable interest, and it will not be out of place to discuss the various views expressed on the subject by writers on Indian History. The story of Hasan’s origin related by Firishta savours of romance. According to him Hasan in his early years was employed in the service of Gangū, a Brahman astrologer of Dihli who enjoyed the patronage of Prince Muhammad Tughluq. Pressed hard by adverse circumstances, Hasan begged of Gangū to give him some work, whereupon the latter gave him a pair of oxen, two labourers and a plot of waste land near Dihli. Hasan took to agriculture, and one day while his labourer was ploughing the land, the plough stuck up into a chain which was tied to a vessel full of gold and silver coins. Hasan, with perfect honesty, carried the vessel, wrapped in a piece of cloth, to Gangū’s house at night and related to him the story. Gangū, pleased with his honesty, recommended him to Muhammad Tughluq who called him into his presence and rewarded him for his honesty.