History of Aurangzib, Based on Original Sources v4.c61.s3.20

v4.c61.s3.20

Jai Singh at once recognized that the chance of taking Bijapur by a coup de main was gone. And he was not prepared for a regular siege, as, in his eagerness "to grasp the golden chance [of attacking Bijapur while undefended and torn by domestic factions], he had not summoned big artillery and siege material from Parenda fort but had arrived near Mangalvide by rapid marches." And now his position was critical. Twenty thousand Bijapuris faced him in the open, while they could easily draw reinforcements from their capital. There was also a rumour, which soon proved to be true, that a large army was coming from Golkonda to the help of Adil Shah. "On account of the devastation of the environs of the fort, Jai Singh's army was faced not only with thirst, but also with starvation, as the pack-oxen of the grain-carriers (*banjaras*) accompanying the army could not get enough fodder and drink on the way." His council of war advised a retreat.