Annals and Antiquities of Rajasthan, or the Central and Western Rajput States of India v2.c30.t2.80

v2.c30.t2.80

Rāwal Mūlrāj III., A.D. 1294-95.—Mulraj III., in S. 1350 (A.D. 1294), ascended the gaddi surrounded by foes. On this occasion, the customary rejoicings on installation took place at the moment when the two friends, Ratansi and Mahbub Khan, had met, as usual, under the khejra tree. The cause of rejoicing being explained to the Nawab, he observed that the Sultan had heard of, and was offended with, these meetings, to which he attributed the protracted defence of the castle, and acquainted Ratansi that next day a general assault was commanded, which he should lead in person. The attack took place; it was fierce, but the defence was obstinate, and the assailants were beaten back with the loss of nine thousand men. But the foe obtained reinforcements, and towards the conclusion of the year the garrison was reduced to the greatest privations, and the blockade being perfect, Mulraj assembled his kinsmen and thus addressed them : “ For so many years [251] we have defended our dwellings ; but our supplies are expended, and there is no passage for more. What is to be done ? ” The chiefs, Sahar and Bikamsi, replied, “ A sakha must take place ; we must sacrifice ourselves ” : but that same day the royal army, unaware of the distress of the besieged, retreated.