History of Aurangzib, Based on Original Sources v3.c37.s2.3

v3.c37.s2.3

About 1670, Mir Khan, the then governor of Allahabad, is said to have "entered into the interests of Prince Muhammad Azam Shah and instigated futile plans [of independence]. The Emperor, hearing of it, cried out, 'This lowly sparrow has not the strength of a high-soaring falcon,' but fearing lest he should stir up even a slight disturbance, His Majesty removed Mir Khan from his rank and attached all his property." (Ishwardas, 61b; Mirat, 300.) The official record is silent about the incident; it only tells us that the faujdari of Sambhal which the prince had been holding by deputy was taken away from him in October 1670, but we do not know whether this was done by way of punishment or in the course of ordinary official transfers.* Manucci's story (ii. 394), that Azam "was arrested and locked up in the palace and there he remained for a whole year, getting no wine to drink" is incredible; at all events even if true it was not in punishment of any intended rebellion, as the confinement is said to have taken place before his marriage with Dara's daughter, which was celebrated in January, 1669.