New History of the Marathas v1.c15.41

v1.c15.41

After all, Sambhājī’s desertion did not benefit the Khan much. During their march towards Panhālā Dilir committed fearful atrocities upon the innocent populace of the various places on the way. At Tikota a large number of bankers and rich gentry had taken shelter with their hoarded wealth. Dilir Khan’s cupidity was excited; he wantonly plundered the gentry and inflicted untold miseries upon innocent women and children, both Hindu and Muslim, many of whom killed themselves by jumping into wells to save their honour. Several thousand of these hapless people were taken prisoners and heavy ransoms demanded from them. This barbarous procedure chilled Sambhājī’s ardour for Dilir Khan to such a degree that he strongly protested against it. From Tikota they proceeded to Athni, another wealthy mart, where the Khan expected to collect a rich booty. Here he laid violent hands only on the Hindus, who made piteous appeals to Sambhājī in the name of his father to intercede with the Khan for their safety and honour. And now Sambhājī’s conscience was so keenly awakened that a complete estrangement took place between them. Dilir Khan taunted Sambhājī saying, “I am my own master: you have no business to teach me lessons in good conduct.”