The Dynastic History of Northern India (Early Mediaeval Period) v1.c13.237

v1.c13.237

The next seven years, which formed the duration of the reign of the restored Sussala (A.D. 1121-28), were darkened by constant struggles between Sussala and Bhikṣācāra. The latter had taken up a convenient position at the village of Puṣyāṇanāḍa (mod. Puṣiāna), at the southern foot of Pīr Pantsāl. From this refuge which was situated in Somapāla's territory, he repeatedly swooped down upon the Valley with his Ḍāmara allies. These feudal barons, whom Kalhaṇa during this period rightly designates as *dasyus*, soon found out that their real interest lay in the continuance of this civil strife. In the course of one of these raids Pṛthvīhara and Bhikṣācāra entered Maḍavarājya, and after defeating the royal troops at Vijayeśvara burnt the famous shrine of Viṣṇu Cakradhara at that place. In these constant struggles Bhikṣācāra gradually gained experience and developed into a brave and dashing soldier. But as the Ḍāmaras on the other hand grew apprehensive on account of his 'extraordinary prowess' and became lukewarm in his cause he failed to gain any decisive success. By exploiting these dissensions in the Pretender's ranks, Sussala soon succeeded in driving him back to Puṣyāṇanāḍa. The respite thus gained by the king was utilised by him in completely overhauling his entourage. Kalhaṇa tells us that 'Henceforth his confidants and ministers were only foreigners, excepting a few of his countrymen who had loyally followed him to Lohara. Among the new officers appointed at this time was Sujji, who was placed by the king in the post of a *Rājasthāna* (chief justice?). Though this new policy was no doubt necessitated by the persistent treachery and unfaithfulness of the Kashmirian officers and generals, it nevertheless aroused considerable apprehension, and Kalhaṇa tells us that there was a general movement amongst most of the citizens to go over to the enemy. 'Only one in a hundred,' says he, 'remained after this by the king's side.'¹