History of Aurangzib, Based on Original Sources v5.c74.s13.7

v5.c74.s13.7

But such victories were of no avail. The Mughal army was now in a state of siege and famine was its worst enemy. In a few days scarcity deepened into an absolute want of food. "Zulfiqar then marched out with his own division to bring in grain from Wandiwash, 24 miles north-east of Jinji. He arrived there at night. His Turani soldiers, under cover of the darkness, fell on the helpless grain-dealers (banjaras) and carried off whatever they could seize. All discipline was lost. In the morning the Khan collected the grain left unplundered by his men, and set out on his return" (5 Jan. 1693). Santa with 20,000 men, barred his path at Desur, 10 miles southwards, and then enveloped his army. The Mughals, after a hard fight, reached the shelter of the fort of Desur at night and encamped at its foot. Here a halt was made for a day or two.