A History of South India from Prehistoric Times to the Fall of Vijayanagar c11.18

c11.18

Cities were protected by high walls, ramparts and gates which were often built of brick and mortar, gateways being surmounted by toraṇas as at Sānchi. Armies were led into battle by footsoldiers who carried short swords for offence, and protected themselves from the enemy's weapons with circular shields and bandages wound round their stomachs. The infantry was flanked by the cavalry and elephants, with bowmen in the rear. Long spears, battle-axes and mallets were also used. Cavalrymen and elephant-drivers, but not the foot-soldiers, wore turbans.