The Dynastic History of Northern India (Early Mediaeval Period) v2.c31.179

v2.c31.179

According to Firishta, the struggle for the fortified temple went on for 3 days. “The labours of the second day proved even more unsuccessful than those of the first... ..As fast as the besiegers scaled the walls, so fast were they hurled down headlong by the besieged who now seemed resolved to defend the place to the last. On the third day an army of idolators having arrived to reinforce the garrison, presented itself in order of battle in sight of the Ghizny camp. Mahmood determined to prevent this attempt to raise the siege and having ordered a party to keep the garrison in check, himself engaged the enemy in the field. The battle raged with great fury; victory was long doubtful, till two Indian princes, Brahma Dew and Dabishleem, with other reinforcements joined their countrymen during the action, and inspired them with fresh courage. Mahmood at this moment perceiving his troops to waver, leaped from his horse, and, prostrating himself before God, implored his assistance. Then mounting again, he took Abool Hussun, the Circassian² by the hand, by way of encouragement, and advanced on the enemy. At the same time he cheered his troops with such energy, that ashamed to abandon their king with whom they had so often fought and bled, they, with one accord gave a loud shout and rushed forward. In this charge the Moslems broke through the enemy's line and laid 5,000 Hindus dead at their feet. The rout became general. The garrison of Sūmnāt, beholding this defeat, abandoned the defence of the place, and issuing out at a gate towards the sea, to the number of 4,000, embarked in boats, intending to proceed to the island of Serendeep or Ceylon.''¹