The Army of the Indian Moghuls: Its Organization and Administration c20.29

c20.29

In Ashob’s *Shahādat-i-Farrukhsiyar*, fol. 112*b*, I have come across a curious device by the Mahrattas to mark the fordable part of a river. In 1148 H. (1735) Pilājī Jādon crossed the Jamnā to attack Sa‘ādat Khān, Burhān-ul-mulk. At the place of crossing he caused bamboo poles to be planted in the water, to show the line of shallow water in case they had to retire. His forethought was, however, of no avail; they were badly beaten, fled in haste, and missed the ford, those that were not drowned being taken prisoners.