New History of the Marathas v1.c14.22

v1.c14.22

3. Grand Visit to Bhaganagar.—From Raigad Shivaji proceeded to Vingorla probably to meet Mauni Bowā, and after receiving his benediction and accompanied by an army of 25 thousand well-equipped troops, made his way towards Bhāgānagar. Netāji Pālkar, Hambir Rāo Mohite, Ānand Rāo Makāji, Mānāji More, Suryāji Mālusre, Yesāji Kank, Dattāji Wāqenavis, the Pingle brothers, Nila Prabhu Parasnis, Bālāji Āvji, Shivaji Naik Punde, these and other trusted and competent associates are mentioned as having accompanied him. Strict instructions were issued to all the Maratha troops and rigidly enforced, that no injury or oppression was to be committed upon the Kutbshahi lands and their people. Shivaji exacted severe discipline in this respect and made some examples of drastic punishment. On arrival near Haidarabad, he was received by Madan Pant at the outskirts of the capital and was taken into the town in a grand procession. His troops and officials were gorgeously dressed. The town of Bhāgānagar was specially decorated. The citizens turned out in immense crowds to have a view of Shivaji and his men.