History of Aurangzib, Based on Original Sources v5.c81.s5.17

v5.c81.s5.17

Ajit Singh had now been in open rebellion for some time. He fought Muhakam Singh (now on the Emperor's side again) at Drunera, and by defeating him gained an increase of prestige and strength. [Mirat 397.] Just after this, on 4th March 1707, the news of Aurangzib's death at Ahmadnagar arrived, and three days afterwards (when the happy news had been placed beyond doubt), Ajit took horse for Jodhpur, expelled Jafar Quli (the deputy faujdar of the city), and took possession of his father's capital. As Ajit entered Jodhpur, the Mughals fled, leaving their property behind; they were slain or made captive. Many of them fled in the disguise of Hindus, to escape the merciless retribution of the Rajputs smarting under 26 years of oppression. Mairta was evacuated by Muhakam Singh, who fled wounded to Nagor. Sojat and Pali were regained. The fort of Jodhpur was purified with Ganges water and *tulsi* leaves. Ajit Singh was crowned Maharajah of Marwar. [Mirat, 397 ; Tod, ii. ch. 8.]