History of Aurangzib, Based on Original Sources v5.c82.s3.1

v5.c82.s3.1

The result of these operations was that the new Jat leader went into hiding in 'nooks and corners' unknown to the imperialists. The tribesmen returned to the peaceful work of cultivation and the district enjoyed peace for some years after. But in 1695, when Prince Shah Alam reached Agra, the Jats were again causing trouble. [*M. U.*, i. 542.] Their next leader was Churaman, the son of Bhajja, a brother of Rajaram. This Churaman had a genius for organisation and using opportunities, and succeeded in founding a dynasty which still rules over Bharatpur. "He soon built other...places for retreat and the safe-keeping of booty......Most likely he was aided in this work by the wealth secreted by Rajaram and others of his ancestors. Being more enterprising than those who had preceded him, he not only increased the number of his soldiers, but also strengthened them by the addition of fusiliers (musketeers) and a troop of cavalry, whom he shortly afterwards set on foot...and having robbed many of the ministers of the Court on the road, he attacked the royal wardrobe and the revenue sent from the provinces." (Fr. MS., 41.) But this full development of Churaman's power was witnessed after the death of Aurangzib. The wars of succession among that Emperor's sons and then among Bahadur Shah's descendants were to be golden opportunities to the Jat leader.