History of Aurangzib, Based on Original Sources v3.c44.s9.2

v3.c44.s9.2

Early in that year many of the clans sent deputations to Peshawar and swore friendship to the Mughals. Shujaet Khan,[*] without waiting for the others to submit, and in disregard of Jaswant's counsel, tried to push on to Kabul. After crossing the Gandab, he ascended the saddle (kotal) of the Karapa Pass (21st February). That night there was a heavy fall of rain and snow; and every one in the Indian camp was brought to death's door by the extreme cold and wet. The Afghans from the heights on the two sides began to harass the suffering army. "The night was so very dark that the planets missed their way in the wide plain of the sky, and, therefore, all men were frightened and troubled,—unable either to advance or retreat. The Khan, proud of his bravery, began to fight with bows and muskets. The Afghans showered stones, arrows, and bullets. But what the imperialists discharged missed the mark, while the missiles of the Afghans all took effect." The imperialists, perplexed and shaken, retreated to a safer position for the rest of the night. But many of them were benumbed to death in the Pass and many others paralysed by the cold. At dawn the Afghans charged the miserable army from all sides. Shujaet Khan, forgetful of his duty as general, sought and found a soldier's death in the front rank. His leaderless troops were hemmed round; but a band of 500 Rathors, wisely sent by Jaswant, arrived with guns, broke the enemy's cordon, and brought the remnant of the army back to camp after a long and desperate fight at close quarters. Three hundred of the Rajputs sacrificed themselves in this heroic exploit. Of Shujaet's followers thousands had fallen before.