Shivaji and His Times c8.s26: § 3. Shivaji's journey to Agra
Shivaji and His Times c8.s26
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§ 3. Shivaji's journey to Agra
c8.s26.1
On the way, he received an imperial letter, written from Agra on 5th April, saying, "Received your letter stating that you have started for my Court. Come quickly with composure of mind, and after receiving my favours you will be permitted to return home. I send you a robe of honour [with this.]" (Parasnis MS., Letter No. 10).
c8.s26.2
When he reached Aurangabad, his fame and splendidly dressed escort drew all the people out of the city to gaze on him. But Saf Shikan Khan, the governor of the place, despising Shiva as a mere zamindar and a Maratha, remained with his officers in the audience-hall, and merely sent his nephew to receive Shiva on the way and ask him to come and see him there. Shivaji was highly offended at this intended slight of the governor and asserted his dignity by riding straight to his appointed quarters in the city, entirely ignoring the governor's existence. Saf Shikan Kan then climbed down and visited Shiva at his residence with all the Mughal officers! Next day, Shiva returned the visit, showing great politeness and cordiality to all. After a halt of some days, he resumed his march, receiving rations and presents from the local officers along his route, as ordered by the Emperor. (Dil. 57-58.) On 9th May he arrived in the outskirts of Agra, in which city the Emperor was then holding Court.
c8.s26.3
∗ *Sabh. 47. Dil. 57 says 1,000 soldiers, which I consider as more probable.*