History of Aurangzib, Based on Original Sources v3.c37.s2.8

v3.c37.s2.8

“As the eldest son of the Emperor always sits on the right hand of His Majesty, and during Shah Alam’s retreat (i.e., disgrace) Azam had been given that seat of honour, the former asked the Emperor, ‘What are your Majesty’s orders about my rightful claim on the day of *Id*?’ Aurangzib replied, ‘Go to the *Idgah* before my cortege and you will sit on my right hand.’ He did so. When the imperial party reached the steps, Shah Alam advanced, interviewed, and kissed the Emperor’s toes. His Majesty, after shaking hands with him, took his left hand in his own right hand, and entered the mosque. Thus it happened that the eldest prince sat on the right close to the Emperor. Shah-i-Alijah (i.e., Azam) who came behind, placed his sword on the ground before the Emperor and touched the arm of his elder brother wishing him to move away and make room for him to sit on the Emperor’s right. His Majesty’s glance fell on that side; with his right hand he grasped the skirt of Alijah and dragged him to the left side... When the prayers were said and the *khatib* ascended the pulpit (to proclaim the Emperor’s titles), His Majesty rose from his seat, holding the hand of Alijah, and went out by the second gate, making a sign to the eldest prince to go out by the third gate with his sons.” This precaution was taken to prevent an armed encounter between the retainers of the two rival brothers. (M.A. 372.)