History of Aurangzib, Based on Original Sources v4.c62.s4.12

v4.c62.s4.12

Sure of Mughal support, the regent formed plans for overthrowing Bahlol Khan, who was commander-in-chief and "used often to disobey and oppose Khawas Khan." (B.S. 446.) The Afghan chief, getting scent of the matter, forestalled the blow. Inviting Khawas to a dinner, he plied him with wine, seized him, (11th November), and sent him off as a prisoner to Bankapur. He then entered the citatdel of Bijapur and made himself wazir without a blow. "Khawas Khan had been prime minister and virtual king for three years, during which, owing to the Khan's indolence and incompetence, affairs went from bad to worse. His wife, Habiba Sultan, managed the revenue and the administration and used to look after public business with full power. With all her wisdom, she was a woman, and the Adil-Shahi officers were impatient of feminine rule. Khawas spent his days in pleasure and ease, not caring for anybody." (B.S. 447.)