Tārīḫ-i Firištah - The History of the Rise of Mohammedan Power in India, Volume 3

The nobles unite with Meean Munjoo in raising Ahmud to the throne. — Yekhlas Khan institutes an enquiry into his origin. — His pretensions to royal descent disputed. — Meean Munjoo and his minion are besieged in the fort by Yekhlas Khan. — He obtains the release of Nehung Khan and Hubbush Khan, two chiefs confined in Dowlutabad; and being unable to obtain possession of the Prince Bahadur, the son of the late King, he procures a boy of the same age in the bazar of Ah-mudnuggur, and proclaims him King. — Meean Munjoo sends a deputation to the Prince Moorad Mirza, the son of Akbur Padshah of Dehly, inviting him to march to Ahmudnuggur. — Dissensions among Yekhlas Khan's party. — Meean Mun-joo attacks and defeats it. — The Prince Moorad Mirza reaches Ahmudnuggur with an army of thirty thousand men. — Meean Munjoo resolves to oppose them — takes measures to defend the fort. — Leaves Chand Beeby there, and quits the fort with Ahmud Shah. — Chand Beeby procures the assassination of the governor of the fort, and proclaims her grandnephew, Bahadur Nizam Shah, King. — Forms a regency. — Ahmudnuggur besieged. — Four pretenders to the throne. — Chand Beeby unites with one of the parties headed by Nehung Khan, an Abyssinian chief. — The King of Beejapoor sends a division of twelve thousand men to co-operate with Chand Beeby under Soheil Khan. — Meean Munjoo and Yekhlas Khan also join him. — The King of Golconda sends an army of six thousand cavalry to assist in repelling the Moguls. — The Moguls storm Ahmudnuggur. — Gallant defence of the garrison. — Intrepidity of Chand Beeby. — The Moguls are repulsed. — A treaty concluded, by which the Nizam Shahy state formally cedes the sovereignty of Berar. — The Moguls retreat. — The allies arrive at Ahmudnuggur. — The claims of Bahadur Shah established. — Chand Beeby appointed regent — and the late King Ahmud is provided with an estate by Ibrahim Adil Shah of Beejapoor.

AS Yekhlas Khan and his adherents, with the other chiefs, had by their folly and imprudence ruined the thoughtless young man, Ibrahim Nizam Shah, Meean Munjoo, arriving at Ahmud-nuggur, took possession of the treasury and fortress. Upon the arrival of Yekhlas Khan and the other officers, Meean Munjoo sent for them into the fort, to consider the most advisable plan for conducting the government. Most of the Abyssinians espoused the cause of Chand Bee-by, aunt to the late king, and proposed that the King's only son Bahadur, an infant in arms, should be proclaimed under her regency. Meean Munjoo, deprecating this plan, it was agreed that Ahmud, said to be descended from the Nizam Shahies, then at Dowlutabad, should be placed on the throne; and accordingly a formal deputation was sent there with great pomp, to bring Ahmud the son of Shah Tahir, who

Zeehuj 10.
A. H. 1003.
August 6.
A. D. 1594.

was crowned on the 10th of Zeehuj, A. H. 1003, and the Khootba read in the name of the twelve Imams. The chiefs divided almost the whole of the kingdom into estates for themselves; and having removed Bahadur, the late king's orphan son, from the charge of his aunt, sent him by force to the fortress of Chawund. Shortly afterwards it was discovered that Ahmud Shah was not of the Nizam Shahy family, and that his pretensions to the crown were unfounded. On which Yekhlas Khan, and the other Abyssinians, repented of their consenting to his accession. The following is the true account of this youth's pedigree.

When Boorhan Nizam Shah the First, son of Ahmud Nizam Shah, died, and was succeeded by his son (Hoossein Nizam Shah), his five brothers,

1. Mahomed Khoodabunda,
2. Shah Ally,
3. Mahomed Bakur,
4. Abdool Kadur,
5. Shah Heidur,

concluding that they should fall victims to the jealousy of their brother on the throne, fled the kingdom. In the latter end of the reign of Moortuza Nizam Shah, a person calling himself Shah Tahir, arrived at Dowlutabad, giving out that Mahomed Khoodabunda died on a certain day in Bengal, and that he (Shah Tahir) was his own begotten son, and that being reduced to distress, he had come into the Deccan. The nobles of Moortuza Nizam Shah, desirous of ascertaining the fact, represented the circumstance to the King, and particularly to the famous Sulabut Khan. The facts were not then satisfactorily cleared up, owing to the distance of Bengal, and with reference to the period which had elapsed; but as Shah Tahir claimed royal descent, and might one day set up pretensions to the throne, he was confined in a fortress. Some time afterwards persons of respectability, acquainted with the late Prince Khoodabunda, were sent to Agra to Boorhan Nizam Shah, afterwards King of Ah-mudnuggur, but then at Akbur Padshah's court, in order to ascertain the fact. That prince refuted Shah Tahir's story, by stating that his uncle, the Prince Khoodabunda, died in his (Boorhan Nizam's) house; that his family, male and female, who were still alive, were at present with him at Agra; and if any person had stated himself to be the son of the Prince Khoodabunda, the assertion was false, and the individual an impostor. The minister Sulabut Khan, however, said, that as this person had declared himself to be the son of Prince Khoodabunda, it would be difficult to persuade the people of the fraud; and it would always give him a plea on which to found pretensions to the crown; it therefore appeared advisable that he should be confined in some fort for life. Shah Tahir was accordingly imprisoned, and died some years afterwards, leaving a son whose name was Ahmud, and whose claim to affinity to the blood royal was supported by Meean Munjoo, who proposed his elevation, as we have seen. Yekhlas Khan, with the Movullids and Abyssinians, when they discovered the truth, deserted his cause; and Meean Munjoo, with the Deccanies, encamped in a large body on the plain of the Kala Chubootra, near the fort of Ahmudnuggur. Meean Munjoo despatched his son Meean Hussun, with seven hundred horse, to disperse the mob under Yekhlas Khan; and himself, accompanied by Ahmud, went upon a cavalier, from whence they could see the result. The two parties engaged, and the struggle was long doubtful, till a shot from the insurgents striking the King's canopy occasioned great confusion in the fort.

Page 296 and 296 are missing. (PHI)

hadur Shah King of Ahmudnuggur, taking the whole management of affairs into her own hands, assisted by Mahomed Khan. She also induced Shumsheer Khan Abyssinian, and Afzul Khan Borishy, with many of their adherents, to join her in the fort.

Rubbee-oos-
Sany 23.
A. H. 1004.
December 14.
A. D. 1595. On the 23d of Rubbee-oos-Sany of the same year, the Prince Moorad Mirza appeared on the northern face of Ahmudnuggur; and upon his arrival at the Eedgah, a few shot passed between his line and the fort. The Mogul army encamped in the Husht-i-Behisht gardens, formed by Boorhan Nizam Shah I. The Prince Moo-rad immediately sent off a strong guard to protect the inhabitants of Boorhanabad, (founded by Boorhan Nizam Shah II.) with directions to treat them with lenity; and the troops were also ordered to proclaim protection to all the natives, so that they relied entirely on the good disposition of the Moguls towards them. On the second day the Prince in person went out, and, with the advice of his engineers, marked out the ground for the trenches against the fort, and allotted to each division of the army its separate post round

Rubbee-oos-
Sany 27.
A. H. 1004.
December 17.
A. D. 1595.

the garrison. On the 27th of the same month, Shahbaz Khan, one of the Mogul generals, (who was notorious for his tyranny over his troops, and cruelty to all classes of inhabitants,) mounted, and, under pretence of hunting, sallied forth towards Boorhanabad, and there, in spite of the Prince's orders, encouraged his men to plunder, himself setting the example: the consequence was, that in the course of an hour the towns of Ahmudnuggur and Boorhanabad were completely sacked. The Prince no sooner heard of this transaction than he ordered several of those actually taken with plunder to be hanged in front of the lines; but the inhabitants, no longer relying on the faith of the Prince's promises, deserted both towns during that night.

At this period it must be observed, that besides the government in the fort the Nizam Shahies were divided into three other parties.

First, Meean Munjoo and his minion Ahmud Shah, who were encamped on the Adil Shahy borders soliciting the assistance of Ibrahim Adil Shah.

Secondly, Yekhlas Khan, in the vicinity of Dowlutabad, who had procured another child, called Moty, in that neighbourhood, declaring him to be the rightful heir to the crown.

Thirdly, Nehung Khan, the Abyssinian, who went to the Beejapoor territories, and induced Shah Ally, ^299a the son of Boorhan Nizam Shah I., then upwards of seventy years of age, to emerge from his retirement at Beejapoor, and consent to assume the royal canopy.

Yekhlas Khan, with a force of twelve thousand men, was on his march to the capital when Dow-lut Khan Lody, with a body of six thousand Mogul cavalry, being directed to attack him, gave him a total defeat on the banks of the Godavery; and from thence, following up his success, arrived at Peitun, at that period a flourishing town, and sacking it, he scarcely left the inhabitants sufficient to cover themselves.

Chand Beeby, although she had proclaimed Bahadur Nizam Shah, yet, as he was still in confinement at Chawund, and Meeran Munjoo with the present king also in force on the Beejapoor frontier, thought it advisable to make overtures to Nehung Khan and Shah Ally to join her in the fort. Nehung Khan, accordingly, put his troops in motion, consisting of seven thousand men, and arrived within twelve miles of Ahmudnuggur, from whence he sent a messenger to ascertain the position of the Moguls, and the possibility of throwing himself into the place. Being informed that the east face of the fort was not invested, and that it was the only road by which he could make good his entry, Nehung Khan marched during the night, taking the precaution of having flankers and scouts all round him. On his arrival within about three miles of the place, he discovered that part of the Mogul camp was on the direct road pointed out for his entry. This division had been sent during that very day from the Husht-i-Behisht, and consisted of a piquet of three thousand men under Khan Khanan, in consequence of the oversight in not investing that part of the fort having been observed on the former morning by the Prince when visiting the different posts. Nehung Khan, however, resolved to force his way; and coming upon the party unexpectedly, cut off a number of the Moguls, and upon the post being reinforced, he dashed on with a few followers into the fort. Shah Ally, unable to make his way good, attempted to retreat; but his followers, to the number of seven hundred, were cut off by the Moguls under Dow-lut Khan Lody.

Ibrahim Adil Shah of Beejapoor no sooner heard of this defeat, and of the great power of the Moguls, than he despatched Soheil Khan, an eunuch, with twenty-five thousand horse to Shahdoorg, on his frontier, there to await further orders. Here he was immediately joined by Meean Munjoo and Ahmud Shah, as well as by Yekhlas Khan, who had for the present laid aside every private consideration, in the hope, by forming a union, of saving the government. This army was soon after joined by Mehdy Koolly Sooltan Toorkoman with six thousand Kootb Shahy horse, sent express from Hydurabad.

When the Prince Moorad Mirza heard of the assemblage of this force at Shahdoorg (he and his commander-in-chief having lately disagreed on some subjects), he assembled a council of war, when it was resolved that the fort should be attacked as soon as possible, before the allies could relieve it. In a few days five mines were accordingly carried under the bastions, on one face of the fort: they were all charged with gunpowder, and built up

Rujub 1.
A. H. 1004.
Feb. 20.
A. D. 1590.

with mortar and stones, excepting where the train was to be laid, by Tuesday night the 1st of Rujub, and it was resolved on the following morning to explode them.

During the night, Khwaja Mahomed Khan Shirazy, admiring the resolution of the besieged, and unwilling they should be sacrificed, made good his way to the walls, and informed them of their danger. The garrison immediately commenced countermining, at the instance of Chand Beeby, who herself showed the example; and by daylight they had destroyed two mines, and were searching for the others, when the Prince Moorad Mirza, without communicating with Khan Khanan, ordered out the line, and resolved to storm without him. The besieged were in the act of removing the powder from the third mine which was the largest, when the Prince ordered them to be sprung. Many of the counterminers were killed, and several yards of the wall fell. Immediately as the breach was made, many of the principal officers of the besieged prepared for flight. Chand Beeby, on the contrary, put on armour, and with a veil on her face, and a naked sword in her hand, flew to defend the breach. This instance of intrepidity brought back the fugitives, who now one and all joined her; and as the Prince and the Mogul storming party were waiting for the springing of the other mines, time was afforded to the besieged to throw rockets, powder, and other combustibles into the ditch, and to bring guns to bear up on the breach.

The Moguls at length advanced to storm. An obstinate defence took place at the foot of the breach, where the assailants suffered severely from the heavy fire of the besieged. The ditch was nearly filled with dead carcasses; and although several storming parties succeeded each other from four o'clock in the evening till night-fall, they were successfully repulsed. The feats of the valiant heroine, Chand Beeby, who had been seen by all defending the breach, became the subject of universal admiration and conversation in the enemy's lines. From that day the Regent, who had been always called Chand Beeby, now acquired the title of Chand Sooltana. ^303a During the whole night she superintended in person the repairs of the breach, and by dawn of day it was built up to the height of seven or eight feet. On the following day she despatched letters to the allied armies, then at Beer, to hasten their approach, representing the distress of the garrison for supplies. These despatches fell into the enemy's hands, who forwarded them to their destination, with a letter from the Prince Moorad, inviting them to hasten, as he was most anxious to meet them. “The sooner,” said he, “the better.”

The allies, on receiving these letters, marched by the Manickdown hills to Ahmudnuggur. By this time the Mogul camp, already much distressed for provisions, became more so from the approach of the allies, who continued to circumscribe the resources of the besiegers. The Prince Moorad, therefore, thought it advisable to make overtures to the fort, and agreed to quit the country, on condition of receiving a grant for the cession of Berar, the sovereignty of which was required to be formally renounced by Ahmudnuggur. Chand Sooltana at first refused these terms; but upon reflecting that if the allies were defeated, she might not obtain even such conditions, she signed the treaty in the name of Bahadur Shah; and the Moguls retreated by the route of Dowlutabad, and the Jeipoor Kotly Ghat.

The allies arrived three days after the raising of the siege by the Moguls,—and Meean Munjoo expected allegiance to be paid to Ahmud Shah. To this, however, the nobles in the fort would by no means consent; and Nehung Khan, shutting the gate of the fort against him, sent a force to bring Bahadur Shah from his confinement in the fort of Chawund. Chand Sooltana now requested the assistance of her nephew, the King of Beejapoor, to quell the internal commotions of the Ahmud-nuggur state, when Ibrahim Adil Shah deputed Moostufa Khan with a body of four thousand horse to her aid. At the same time he addressed a letter to Meean Munjoo, requiring him to desist from pressing the claims of Ahmud Shah, and to repair to Beejapoor, when all things should be taken into consideration. Meean Munjoo accordingly proceeded with Soheil Khan and Moostufa Khan to that capital. Upon his arrival at Beejapoor, Ibra-him Adil Shah having satisfactorily ascertained that Ahmud was not a lineal descendant of the Nizam Shahy family gave him a handsome estate for life, and enrolled Meean Munjoo among the nobles of his own kingdom.

Queen Chand obtains the release of Bahadur Nizam Shah. — He is formally crowned. — Mahomed Khan appointed peshwa — he raises his relatives to high offices. — The old chiefs disgusted. — The peshwa seizes many of them. — Queen Chand applies for aid to her nephew, Ibrahim Adil Shah of Bee-japoor, who sends an army under his general Soheil Khan to her assistance. — The peshwa Mahomed Khan intrigues with the Mogul general Khan Khanan. — Mahomed Khan's treachery discovered — he is seized by the garrison of Ah-mudnuggur, and made over to Queen Chand for punishment. — The Moguls seize districts not included in the late treaty. — A formidable army, composed of the troops of Ah-mudnuggur, Beejapoor, and Golconda, under Soheil Khan, amounting to sixty thousand men, advances towards Berar. — Battle of Sonput. — The Deccan troops are eventually defeated on the second day. — The Mogul forces canton at Jalna. — Nehung Khan is created peshwa by Queen Chand. — He attempts to seize her — is excluded from the fort — lays siege to it — recovers some of the districts south of the Goda-very occupied by the Moguls. — The Prince Moorad Mirza dies — is succeeded in the command of the army of the Deccan by his brother Daniel Mirza. — Akbur Padshah proceeds to the Deccan — besieges Aseer, while his son Daniel advances to attack Ahmudnuggur. — Nehung Khan attempts to oppose their march, but eventually retires to Joonere. — Second siege of Ahmudnuggur. — Queen Chand calls a council of war — she recommends the surrender of the fort — her opinion overruled — she is seized by the garrison, and murdered. — Ahmudnug-gur taken by storm, and the garrison put to the sword. — Bahadur Nizam Shah conveyed prisoner to the fort of Gualiar.

THE Queen Chand having succeeded in obtaining the person of Bahadur Nizam Shah from his imprisonment in Chawund, he was publicly proclaimed King of Ahmudnuggur, when she appointed her friend and adviser, Mahomed Khan, to the office of peshwa; but he in a short time (as is the way of the world) after establishing his authority promoted his own adherents and relatives to the chief offices of the empire. It was unlikely, however, that those persons who had distinguished themselves in the war should now tamely submit to degradation; he thought it politic, therefore, to seize and confine Nehung Khan and Shumsheer Khan, Abyssinians. On which the rest of the chiefs, apprehensive of a similar fate, fled the kingdom.

The Dehly troops had occupied Berar, and were still in that quarter. Mahomed Khan's influence and power at the capital was unrestrained; and Queen Chand saw, at this period, the approaching dissolution of her authority. She accordingly wrote a letter to her nephew, Ibrahim Adil Shah, begging his interference, and requesting that a considerable force might be sent to re-organise the government, now usurped by Mahomed Khan. Soheil Khan was despatched for this purpose with an army to Ahmudnuggur, with instructions to regulate his conduct agreeably to the wishes of Queen Chand.

A. H. 1005.
A. D. 1596. In the beginning of the year 1005 Soheil Khan arrived; and as Mahomed Khan opposed his entry, he invested the fort, the blockade of which continued for four months. Mahomed Khan, finding a strong party against him, addressed letters to Khan Khanan, the commander-in-chief of the Mogul force then in Berar, to join him, promising to hold the country of the Emperor of Dehly. The garrison, when they heard of this desperate measure, seized Ma-homed Khan, and delivered him over to the Queen. This step at once restored her authority: on which she instantly released Nehung Khan Abyssinian, and appointed him peshwa; and having presented Soheil Khan with an honorary robe, and some presents, permitted him to return to Beejapoor. On the road to that city, at the village of Rajapoor, on the banks of the Beema, he heard that the Moguls had not only occupied the kingdom of Berar, but had laid violent hands on the town of Patry, &c., which was not included in the Berar cessions. He accordingly halted, and wrote to Ibrahim Adil Shah informing him of the circumstance, and Queen Chand also sent advices to the same effect from Ahmudnuggur to the Beejapoor and Hydurabad sovereigns. Soheil Khan now received orders to march against the invaders; and Mahomed Koolly Sooltan, with a force from Golconda, was directed to co-operate with Soheil Khan, who having been also joined by twenty thousand Nizam Shahy troops, sent from Ahmudnuggur, marched towards Berar with an army consisting of nearly sixty thousand horse, and encamped at the town of Sonput.

Khan Khanan, the Mogul general, who was at that period in cantonments at Jalna, called in all his detachments, and himself went to Shahpoor to receive instructions from the Prince Moorad. He was there joined by Raja Ally Khan of Kandeish, Raja Jugnat, and several other officers of distinction, and returning to Jalna, marched direct towards the Deccanies, and encamped on the banks of the Godavery, where, taking up a position close to the enemy, he intrenched his camp. During fifteen days no action beyond partial skirmishes took place between the cavalry. The object of the Mogul in this was to know something of the Dec-canies as soldiers; but on the fifteenth day he

Jumad-oos-
Sany 18.
A. H. 1005.
January 26.
A. D. 1597.

formed his line to attack them, being the 18th of Jumad-oos-Sany, A. H. 1005. It was about nine o'clock in the morning when the battle commenced, though no close engagement took place till about three in the afternoon, at which time the action became general; and Raja Ally Khan of Kandeish and Raja Jugnat were both killed by the Beejapoor artillery. The Nizam Shahy and Kootb Shahy troops, unable to withstand the brunt of the Mogul cavalry, fell back before sunset; Soheil Khan, however, still gallantly maintained his position singly; and the Adil Shahy cavalry breaking through the Moguls, drove them before them as far as Shahpoor; where the Prince Moorad was on the eve of evacuating his camp, till he heard that Khan Khanan still maintained his ground. The Deccanies, looking upon this as a victory, imprudently began plundering during the night, notwithstanding the exertions of Soheil Khan to prevent it, and taking their spoils with them, retreated to their capitals.

Some hours of the night elapsed before Khan Khanan and Soheil Khan discovered that they were within musket-shot of each other, upon which they both made exertions to collect their scattered troops. The dawn discovered to each his enemy ready mounted for the attack. Khan Khanan proposed overtures of peace; but Soheil Khan, refusing any accommodation, immediately opened his guns on the Moguls. A severer action than that of the preceding day now ensued; when the Adil Shahies being at length defeated, Soheil Khan was compelled, with a few retainers, to make good his retreat to Shahdoorg; while the Nizam Shahies and Kootb Shahies, who had fled on the former day, continued their route, the former to Ahmud-nuggur, and the latter to Hydurabad. After this victory Khan Khanan despatched the greater part of his army to reduce the forts of Nurnala and Gavul in Berar, while he himself remained encamped at Jalna.^309a

The Prince Moorad (at the instigation of his tutor Sadik Mahomed Khan, an officer of five thousand horse,) recommended that the late victory should be followed up, and that the Mogul troops should march immediately for the reduction of Ah-mudnuggur and the occupation of that country. Khan Khanan replied, that there were still many strong forts in Berar to be taken, and it appeared advisable to wait till the following year for the invasion of the Nizam Shahy territories. The Prince, offended at this difference of opinion, wrote complaints to his father Akbur Padshah at Dehly, which he procured to be supported by other private letters from his camp at Shahpoor, till at length

A. H. 1006.
A. D. 1597.

his Majesty recalled Khan Khanan, and deputed Sheikh Abool Fuzl ^310a to the situation of commander-in-chief of the army of the Deccan.

Meanwhile Nehung Khan, the peshwa of Ah-mudnuggur, having obtained unlimited power, concerted a scheme to seize Queen Chand, and to take upon himself the management of the orphan King and the government. The Queen, gaining intimation of his intentions, shut the gates against him; and securing the person of the King, refused the former admittance, saying that he might transact the public business in the town, but not in the fort as hitherto. Nehung Khan for some days submitted quietly; but at length, throwing off the mask, attacked the fort. Several partial skirmishes between the royalists and the rebels took place; and although Ibrahim Adil Shah made overtures to effect a reconciliation, they were invariably rejected by both parties; each of whom would only be satisfied by the unqualified submission of his enemy. Nehung Khan, who had gradually acquired strength from his local position, now took advantage of the absence of Khan Khanan from the Deccan, and also of the rainy season, when the Godavery was full, and not fordable, to send a detachment, and retake the town of Beer from the Moguls. Sheer Khwaja, the governor of Beer, marched twelve miles to oppose the Nizam Shahies, but being wounded, and his party defeated, he with great difficulty reached Beer, when the Nizam Shahies invested the place. Sheer Khwaja wrote petitions to the Emperor at Dehly, complaining that no reinforcements were sent to him, and representing his situation. Akbur was on the point of sending Khan Khanan again to the Deccan, and recalling Abool Fuzl, when information was received of the death of the Prince Moorad, at Shah-poor, an event brought on by extreme dissipation. His Majesty accordingly deputed his youngest son, the Prince Daniel Mirza, to the government of the Deccan, attended by Khan Khanan as commander-in-chief. They had scarcely reached the frontier when his Imperial Majesty, at the earnest entreaties of Sheikh Abool Fuzl, marched in

A. H. 1008.
A. D. 1599.

person to the south, in the beginning of the year 1008. Upon his arrival at Boorhanpoor, having enquired into the Deccan politics, and finding that the Nizam Shahy government was still distracted by the factions of Queen Chand and Nehung Khan, Akbur laid siege to the fort of Aseer, and detached the Prince Daniel Mirza and Khan Khanan against Ahmudnuggur. Nehung Khan Abyssinian immediately raised the siege, and marched with fifteen thousand horse and foot to occupy the Jeipoor Kotly G'hat, and there to oppose the Moguls; but having intimation of this movement, the Prince marched round by the village of Manoory, and avoided the pass. Ne-hung Khan, finding himself out-manœuvred, and unable to withstand the Mogul forces, set fire to his heavy baggage, and retreated to Ahmud-nuggur, where he wished to compromise matters with the Queen, who refusing to listen to him, he fled to Joonere. The Mogul forces reached the fort without opposition, and having laid siege to it as before, commenced mining. At this period the unfortunate, though heroic, Queen Chand, placing no reliance on the persons about her, applied to Humeed Khan an eunuch, and an officer of rank in the fort, for advice. He recommended that they should fight, and defend the place against the Moguls, while the Queen declared, that after the conduct of the several officers whom she had seen within the last few years she could place no reliance on them, and for her own part she considered it most advisable to negotiate for the evacuation of the fort, on condition of obtaining security for the lives of the garrison and private property, and then to retire to Joonere with the young King. Humeed Khan ran out into the streets, declaring that Chand Sooltana was in treaty with the Moguls for the delivery of the fort; and the shortsighted and ungrateful Deccanies, headed by Humeed Khan, rushed into her private apartments, and put her to death. In the course of a few days the mines were sprung with effect, and several breaches made. The Moguls stormed and carried the place, giving little or no quarter. Bahadur Shah with all the children of both sexes of the royal family were taken prisoners; and the unfortunate King, with the regalia and jewels, were sent to Akbur Padshah at Boorhanpoor. The fort of Aseer falling also at the same time, his Imperial Majesty made over Kandeish and the Deccan conquests to the Prince Daniel, and returned to his capital of Akburabad Agra; notwithstanding which, the Nizam Shahy officers having declared Moortuza, the son of Shah Ally, King, for some time made Purenda the capital.

Bahadur Nizam Shah's reign lasted for three years; and that unfortunate prince is, at the present day, confined in the fortress of Gualiar.

Moortuza, the son of Shah Ally, proclaims himself King — is supported by some of the Nizam Shahy chiefs. — Mullik Ambur and Meean Rajoo, two Deccany leaders, occupy the whole of the Nizam Shahy territories. — Unsuccessful efforts made by Khan Khanan, the Mogul governor of Ahmudnuggur, to dispossess them — he at length forms a treaty with Mullik Ambur. — The King joins Mullik Ambur, and holds his court at Dowlutabad. — The Prince Daniel Mirza arrives at Ah-mudnuggur, and receives homage from Mullik Ambur — he espouses the daughter of Ibrahim Adil Shah. — Moortuza Nizam Shah invites Meean Rajoo to assist him against Mullik Ambur. — War between the rival chiefs. — Mullik Ambur conciliates the King. — Removes the seat of government to Joo-nere. — Meean Rajoo is eventually defeated by Mullik Ambur, and almost the whole of the Nizam Shahy dominions fall under the control of the latter.

AFTER the return of Akbur Padshah, two persons of the late Nizam Shahy government distinguished themselves by their enterprise and conduct. The one, Mullik Ambur an Abyssinian, and the other, Meean Rajoo Deccany, ^314a who have, in spite of the Mogul forces, down to the present period, retained almost the whole of the Nizam Shahy dominions.

The former, Mullik Ambur, possesses the country from the Kootb-Shahy and Adil Shahy boundaries, as far north as within one coss of Beer, and four of Ahmudnuggur, and from eight coss west of Dowlutabad to within the same distance of the port of Choul.

The latter, Meean Rajoo, possesses Dowlutabad as far north and south as from the Guzerat frontier to within six coss of Ahmudnuggur: both officers profess the semblance of allegiance to Moortuza Nizam Shah II. In the first instance they gave up the fort of Owsa for the King's residence, and the revenues of a few of the surrounding villages for his subsistence. But as these partisans were extremely envious of each other, frequent disputes arose between them; and Khan Khanan, the Mogul governor of the fort of Ahmudnug-gur, having intimation of their mutual jealousy, directed a party from Berar to march and occupy a small district belonging to Mullik Ambur, on the Tulingana boundaries. Upon intimation of which that chief proceeded to its relief with a detachment of between six and seven thousand horse, and succeeded in defeating the Moguls and recovering the district. Khan Khanan immediately despatched his son, Mirza Eeritch, with a select force of five thousand horse to attack him, and wipe off the stain from the Mogul arms. Mirza Eeritch encountered Mullik Ambur at the town of Nandere, where a severe action took place, in which many soldiers were slain on both sides, and the Deccanies were eventually defeated. Mullik Am-bur, who lay wounded on the field, was only saved by the devoted gallantry of his attendants from falling a prisoner into the enemy's hands; an object they effected after losing a number of men. Mullik Ambur no sooner recovered from his wounds than he began to collect more troops; and Khan Khanan, well aware of his enterprising character and of his popularity in the country, feared the Moguls might be eventually overpowered by numbers under so active a leader, and for these reasons made overtures for peace: while Mullik Ambur, on the other hand, aware of the enmity of Meean Rajoo, and not without suspicions even of his having urged the late attack, gladly accepted the offer, and a treaty was concluded which marked out their respective future boundaries. From that period to the present day Mullik Ambur and Khan Kha-nan continue on the most friendly terms.

At this period, Venkut Row Coly, Furhad Khan Movullid, and Mullik Sundul, an eunuch, with other officers, deserted Mullik Ambur, and joined Moortuza Nizam Shah II. at Owsa, where they collected a force. Mullik Ambur, marching against this faction, dispersed it under the very walls of the place. In this action Venkut Row was taken prisoner; but the other chiefs, flying with the King into the fort, made terms on the following day. As Mul-lik Ambur had long wished to obtain possession of Purenda, he took the King with him to that fortress; the governor of which, Mittun Khan, an Abyssinian, who had been nearly twenty years in the situation, intimated to the King that he was willing to receive and admit him as his liege lord; but that Mullik Ambur, having made peace with the Mogul general, had in fact become one of that party, and he therefore refused to receive him within the walls. Mullik Ambur replied, that it was true he had been compelled, on account of the late conspiracy against him, to be on friendly terms with Khan Khanan, but that he was a true and loyal servant of the Nizam Shahy family, and was ready to support it with his last breath. The governor was not moved by these arguments; and Mullik Ambur, to prevent the King uniting with Mittun Khan, kept him for the present a state-prisoner. The moment that Furhad Khan and Mullik Sundul heard of the King's confinement, they flew to Purenda, and threw themselves into the fort, which was defended for upwards of a month against Mullik Ambur; but the governor's son having committed some cruelty on the inhabitants of the place, they rebelled and slew him, and his father was himself compelled to fly, accompanied by Furhad Khan and Mullik Sun-dul, to Beejapoor, where they entered into the service of the Adil Shahy monarch. The garrison of Purenda held out for some time longer, till at length Mullik Ambur having removed all restraint from Moortuza Nizam Shah II., he was permitted to introduce the King into it, while himself remained encamped without.

A. H. 1013.
A. D. 1604. In the year 1013, the Prince Daniel marched from Boorhanpoor towards Ah-mudnuggur, by the route of Dowlutabad and Nassuk, in order to receive the hand of the daughter of Ibrahim Adil Shah in marriage; and expected that Meean Rajoo would pay him the compliment to meet him, and acknowledge his authority in the Deccan, as Mullik Ambur had done. Meean Rajoo was invited to camp for the purpose; but having no faith in the Prince's promises refused his attendance; and although he was not able to oppose him in the field he so harassed Daniel's army with eight thousand light cavalry that he was obliged to send to Khan Khanan for reinforcements from Jalna, who himself made a forced march with five thousand cavalry, and joined him, which obliged Meean Rajoo to withdraw. On the Prince's return from Ahmudnuggur, with his bride, he encamped at the town of Peitun, on the banks of the Godavery, and remained there some days, in order to celebrate his marriage; after which he proceeded to Boorhanpoor, and Khan Khanan returned to his cantonment at Jalna.

Moortuza Nizam Shah II., in the mean time, sent persons to Meean Rajoo, complaining of the treatment he experienced from Mullik Ambur. That active partisan reached Purenda without opposition, had a conference with the King, and promised to reduce his rival, who, when he heard of his approach, marched to oppose him. The two forces encamped near the fort walls of Purenda, and during a month several skirmishes took place, which generally terminated in favour of Meean Rajoo, while Mullik Ambur despatched letters to Khan Khanan, begging of him to send him assistance from Jalna.

The Mogul general despatched orders to Mirza Hoossein Ally Beg, commander and governor of the district of Beer, to proceed immediately with three thousand cavalry to the support of Mullik Ambur; and upon the arrival of this detachment it attacked and defeated Meean Rajoo, who fled to Dowlutabad.

At this period the death of the Prince Daniel and the absence of Khan Khanan from Jalna, who proceeded to Boorhanpoor as his successor, gave Mul-lik Ambur an opportunity of aggrandisement. He accordingly collected his troops, and marched against Meean Rajoo to Dowlutabad, where he was again defeated, after which he sent petitions to Khan Khanan for aid; but that officer, seeing the state of affairs at Dowlutabad, marched thither, and for a period of six months prevented the rival chiefs from attacking each other. Mullik Ambur, now perceiving that Khan Khanan was rather well disposed towards his rival, deemed it politic to yield to his wishes, and make peace, after which Mullik Ambur returned to Purenda, and Khan Khanan to Jalna; but as Mullik Ambur saw that Moortuza Nizam Shah II. was constantly intriguing, and raising factions against him, he thought it advisable to depose him, and find some less troublesome pageant to fill the throne.

Ibrahim Adil Shah of Beejapoor was consulted on this subject, but refused to countenance the measure, and Mullik Ambur abandoned his intention.

A. H. 1016.
A. D. 1607.

In the year 1016 he made that monarch's situation easier, and began to treat him with more respect: the consequence was, that a mutual confidence grew up between them; and in the same year Moortuza Nizam Shah II., accompanied by his general, Mullik Ambur, marched at the head of ten thousand cavalry from Purenda against Joonere, which that monarch now again made the seat of the Nizam Shahy government, whence he despatched an army to Dowlu-tabad against Meean Rajoo. That chief, after a short time, was defeated and taken prisoner, and his country again reverted to the Nizam Shahy authority. Mullik Ambur ^320a continues to add daily to his influence and power; and at the present day, Moortuza Nizam Shah II., the son of Shah Ally, fills the throne of the Nizam Shahy dynasty. The affairs of the state are conducted by his minister, though it appears that this kingdom is on the very verge of destruction, as the Emperor of Dehly seems to be only waiting for a favourable opportunity to conquer and annex it to that of his own. — The ways of God are known only to himself.

To face page 321. Vol. III.]

>genealogy<

His origin — of Toorkman descent — arrival in India — is appointed one of the secretaries to the government — volunteers to tranquillise the district of Tulingana — is ennobled — assumes the title of King — introduces the Persian customs and religion into his government — is assassinated by order of his son.

IN the reign of Ibrahim Kootb Shah, a person named Shah Khoorsha, an inhabitant of Persia, wrote a work containing a history of the origin of the Kootb Shahy family; but as I have been unable to obtain a copy of it, I am obliged to content myself with such details of the history of that dynasty as have been procurable.

Sooltan Koolly is said to be descended from the tribe of Baharloo Toorkmans, of the Ally Shukur persuasion. Some of his courtiers have asserted that he was grandson to Meerza Jehan Shah of Persia; but I have no good authority for supporting this opinion. It is related that he was born at Humadan, and that in the end of the reign of Mahomed Shah Bahmuny he arrived in the Dec-can, in the prime of youth. As that monarch retained a large train of Toorks in his bodyguard, he was admitted as one of the number. Having received an excellent education, he was subsequently appointed to the situation of secretary in one of the public offices. Shortly after, complaints arriving at court that the inhabitants and petty land-holders of Tulingana refused to pay the revenues, and had rebelled, the King resolved to send an officer with a force into that country; but Sooltan Koolly volunteered to go without troops, and to bring matters to a favourable conclusion. He was accordingly appointed to the duty, and succeeded so completely, that in a short time he recovered many small districts which had been usurped by the Hindoos.

In the reign of Mahomed Shah Bahmuny, Sool-tan Koolly was ennobled, and received the title of Kootb-ool-Moolk; and when Yoosoof Adil Shah, Ahmud Nizam Shah, and Futteh Oolla Imad Shah, threw off their allegiance from the house of Bahmuny, and the former ordered public prayers to be read in the name of the twelve Imams, Sooltan Koolly also, as general and commander-in-chief of the reigning family, caused the names of those saints to be introduced into the public worship; but he did not declare his independence

till the year 918, when the imbecility of Mahmood Shah Bahmuny's government was apparent to the whole world, and the ascendency of his ambitious minister completely established.

Contrary to the practice of India, he introduced the customs of Persia at his court; among which was that of beating the nobut, or imperial band, five times daily. He filled all the offices of his government with his own countrymen. After assuming the regal state, he used to send annually magnificent presents to Mahmood Shah Bahmuny of Bidur.

Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah remained at peace and friendship with all the other kings of the Deccan, excepting on the occasion when Bahadur Shah of Guzerat invaded that country, at the instance of Futteh Oolla Imad Shah, and laid waste great part of the Nizam Shahy territories. At that time Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah sent an envoy, and made friendly overtures to the foreign invader. But when Bahadur Shah returned to Guzerat, Ismael Adil Shah, instigated by Boorhan Nizam Shah, laid siege to the fort of Kulliany,

A. H. 940.
A. D. 1533.

in the year 940. The King of Golconda, unable to cope with the Adil Shahy forces, only sent a detachment of cavalry to cut off their supplies. Fortunately, Ismael Adil Shah, being taken suddenly ill, died about this time; upon which Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah sent an envoy to Boorhan Nizam Shah to mediate a peace, which was concluded.

Some years afterwards Jumsheed, the King's eldest son, who had long been wishing for his father's death, induced one of his slaves to undertake to assassinate him; and accordingly, when the King was one day examining some jewels, this slave drew his dagger and stabbed him to the heart.

A. H. 950.
A. D. 1543.

This event took place in the year 950. The slave flew to relate the news to Jumsheed, who, fearing lest the circumstance of his connivance might become known, struck the assassin dead on the spot.

Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah reigned for a period of nearly thirty-three years, and left three sons, Jumsheed, Heidur, and Ibrahim.

The King unites with the King of Ahmudnuggur against the King of Beejapoor — takes the fort of Kakny — besieges Etgeer — is compelled to retreat — pursued by the Beejapoor army — receives a severe wound in the face which disfigures him for life — contracts a lingering disease — his brothers fly from the capital out of apprehension — his death.

ON the death of his father, Jumsheed Kootb Shah ascended the throne, and was congratulated on the occasion by the arrival of the holy Shah Tahir, prime minister and spiritual guide of Boor-han Nizam Shah. Sometime after, a war breaking out between the Adil Shahy and Nizam Shahy sovereigns, Jumsheed Kootb Shah collected his forces in support of the latter, and marched to Kakny, where he built a strong fort. Adil Shah, being fully engaged at that moment in opposing the united forces of Ramraj and Boorhan Nizam Shah, could not spare troops to oppose Kootb Shah, so that the latter monarch marched from Kakny to the fort of Etgeer, which he invested; but in the mean time, Ibrahim Adil Shah having concluded a peace with his other enemies, Assud Khan Lary was detached with a considerable force to raise the siege of Etgeer. Jumsheed Kootb Shah now wrote to Boorhan Nizam Shah, stating, that he had only acted in concert with him and Ramraj, and upbraided him for making peace without consulting him or advising him of the transaction. Boorhan Nizam Shah said, that he had only done so as a temporary measure of policy; and recommended Jumsheed Kootb Shah to keep a good garrison in Kakny, promising that after the rains he would act in concert in attacking the Adil Shahy territory, and would occupy all the country east of the Beema. He proposed that Etgeer, Sagur, and Koolburga, should belong to Kootb Shah, and Nuldoorg and Sholapoor to Nizam Shah. Jumsheed Kootb Shah, aware of the intriguing character of his ally, not only retained Kakny, but laid closer siege to Etgeer. The Beejapoor general, in the first instance, attacked and carried by storm the fort of Kakny, after a siege of three months, putting the whole garrison to the sword, and from thence proceeded by forced marches to Etgeer. On his approach, Jumsheed Kootb Shah raised the siege and retreated to his own territories, pursued by Assud Khan the Beeja-poor general, who in several actions which took place was always victorious. In the last of these actions Assud Khan encountered the King of Golconda, and cut him down with a sabre, which struck off the tip of his nose, his cheek, and part of his upper lip. This wound not only disfigured him for the rest of his life, but rendered it difficult for him either to eat or drink. Upon his return to his capital he sent ambassadors, who concluded a peace with the Beeja-poor monarch, and afterwards employed himself in reducing much of the country of the Hindoos. During these wars he fell sick, and for two years was in a lingering state of health. As his distemper increased, his disposition became morose, and he put many persons to death on the most trivial occasion. His cruelty now excited the terror of his subjects; and his two brothers fled to Bidur, where Heidur Khan, the eldest, shortly afterwards died, and his younger brother Ibrahim fled to Beejanuggur.

A. H. 957.
A. D. 1550.

In the mean time, Jumsheed Kootb Shah died, in the beginning of the year 957, after a reign of nearly seven years.

Account of his flight from Golconda; and his reception at the Hindoo court of Beejanuggur described — is invited to ascend the throne — his arrival at Golconda — engages to attack the Bee-japoor territory — withdraws from the war — engages to assist the King of Beejapoor against Ahmudnuggur — he suddenly withdraws from the alliance — espouses Beeby Jumally, the daughter of Hoossein Nizam Shah — engages to assist in the reduction of Kulliany — the confederacy is dissolved — becomes a party in the general league of the Mahomedans against Ramraj — is present at the battle of Talikota — his son, the Prince Abdool Kadur, aims at the throne — he is seized, and put to death. — The King's illness — his death.

THE following account may serve to show to what lengths the practice of duelling was at this period carried in the Deccan. While Ibrahim Kootb Shah, during his brother's lifetime, was at Beeja-nuggur, Ramraj showed him every attention, and assigned for his support an estate which was at that time possessed by Ambur Khan the Abyssinian, an officer in Ramraj's pay. Ambur Khan, enraged at the alienation of his estate, and meeting Ibrahim Kootb Shah in the streets of Beejanuggur, accused him of depriving him of it. The latter replied that monarchs were at liberty to dispose of their own property, and that the King of Beejanuggur had chosen to give him the estate. Ibrahim Kootb Shah proceeded on his way; but the Abyssinian called him coward, in refusing to dispute his title with the sword. Ibrahim warned him of his imprudence; but the Prince's mildness only added fury to the Abyssinian's anger, who proceeded to abuse him in grosser language. On this the Prince dismounted and drew: the Abyssinian rushed upon him; but the Prince's temper giving him the advantage, he killed his antagonist, whose brother, standing by, insisted on taking up the cause, and he also fell a victim to his temerity. On the death of Jumsheed Kootb Shah, the ministers at court placed his son, an infant of two years old, on the throne. The Deccan nobles crowded into the palace, and were clamorous for situations, and became so riotous, that Moostufa Khan, the prime minister, immediately wrote off to Ibrahim Kootb Shah to Beejanuggur, inviting him to court. On his arrival on the frontier, he was met by Moostufa Khan, whom he honoured with the office of Meer Joomla and a dress of honour, and was shortly after joined by Sulabut Khan with three thousand foreign cavalry, besides many other officers who now deserted the Deccanies and the infant King. Before the arrival of Ibrahim Kootb Shah at the capital of Golconda upwards of six thousand horse had joined him, which ensured his accession to the throne; an event that took place on the following day, without opposition, in consequence of the extreme popularity of his minister, Moostufa Khan, to whom he shortly afterwards gave his sister in marriage.

A. H. 971.
A. D. 1564.

sequently, in the year 971, the two monarchs marched from their respective capitals to reduce that fortress. On his arrival near Kulliany the nuptials between Beeby Jumally and the King of Golconda were celebrated, after which they both laid siege to that place. Ally Adil Shah had in the mean time formed a strong confederacy with Ramraj, Toofal Khan, and Ameer Bereed, against the kings of Ahmud-nuggur and Golconda: they thought it prudent to raise the siege, and retreat to their own capital. Ramraj and Ally Adil Shah pursued Hoossein Nizam Shah to Ahmudnuggur, devastating his country on the route; and on their return they encamped at the town of Orgy, on the Tulingana frontier, for nearly six months, during which they plundered part of Tulingana, and alarmed the whole kingdom, when Ibrahim Kootb Shah sent an envoy, and sued for peace. In the following year,

A. H. 972.
A. D. 1565.

972, Ibrahim Kootb Shah, in conjunction with the other Mahomedan monarchs of the Deccan, marched against Ramraj, when that King was killed, and his territory occupied. On his return from that glorious campaign, the King's minister and brother-in-law, Moostufa Khan Ardustany, having left him at the town of Rachore, under pretence of going on a pilgrimage to Mecca, joined the camp of Ally Adil Shah. In the reign of Moortuza Nizam Shah some account is given of the conduct of his mother, Khonza Sooltana, who caused discontent, and created factions throughout the empire. Ally Adil Shah at this time deputed his famous general, Kishwur Khan Lary, to build a strong fort on the Beejapoor eastern frontier, which he called Dharoor, having conquered at the same time several towns of the Nizam Shahy government.

Moortuza Nizam Shah, now coming of age, was induced, from motives of self-preservation, to confine his mother in a fort; and he deputed Khan Khanan with a force to reduce Dharoor, at the same time inviting Ibrahim Kootb Shah to assist him; but before that monarch reached the place, it had fallen to the Nizam Shahy forces, and the allies marched on together into the Beejapoor territory. Ibrahim Kootb Shah, at this period, wrote a letter full of friendship to Ally Adil Shah, proposing terms of peace for himself alone. The latter sent his communication direct to Moortuza Nizam Shah, who, on discovering his treachery, sent a party of horse to attack his camp. Ibrahim Kootb Shah fled without opposition to Golconda, and lost one hundred and fifty elephants in his retreat, besides a number of his best officers and men. His son, Abdool Kadur, when he arrived on the frontier, begged of his father to permit him and some of his officers to lie in wait, and attack the rear of the enemy in their pursuit. The King, naturally jealous, supposing that the Prince intended to compass his death, and to effect his own elevation, confined him in a fort, and shortly afterwards ordered him to be poisoned.

A. H. 989.
A. D. 1581. Ibrahim Kootb Shah died suddenly, in the year 989, after a reign of thirty-two years.

Proceeds towards Koolburga in support of an alliance formed with the King of Ahmudnuggur — returns to his capital, leaving one of his officers to conduct the campaign. — The King of Ahmudnuggur is attacked by the Regent of Beejapoor, and defeated, with the loss of one hundred and twenty elephants. — Mahomed Koolly Kootb Shah sends an embassy to Beejapoor — espouses the sister of Ibrahim Adil Shah — builds the city of Bhagnuggur, so called after his favourite mistress Bhag-mutty .

IBRAHIM KOOLLY KOOTB SHAH left three sons, the eldest of whom, Mahomed Koolly, succeeded to the throne at the age of twelve. He immediately married the daughter of Shah Nizam Isfahany, a syud of the Tubatibba tribe, who had long held the office of Ameer Joomla under the late King. At the Syud's instigation the King marched to co-operate with Syud Moortuza Subzwary, the general of Ahmudnuggur: the first object of their attack was Nuldoorg; but as the governor resisted a long siege, they resolved to march to Beejapoor; being equally unfortunate and unsuccessful there, the courtiers of Mahomed Koolly Kootb Shah represented that it was customary among the kings of the Deccan, if they went in person to war, to beg the aid of their allies, who themselves proceeded in person to their assistance, as had always been usual between the two kings of Ah-mudnuggur and Golconda; but that it could not be considered respectable for his Majesty in person to attend one of the generals of Ahmudnuggur. The King, struck with the justice of the remark, which was in fact levelled at the minister who advised the measure, accordingly refused to accompany the army. Upon this the Ahmudnuggur general recommended to his master that the allies should return towards their respective countries, advising that the Nizam Shahies should occupy part of the Adil Shahy territory contiguous to Ahmudnuggur, while the Kootb Shahy monarch should be at liberty to take Koolburga and other places on his frontier. On this resolution the camps separated, each army returning to its own border. Upon his arrival at Koolburga, Mahomed Koolly Kootb Shah left Mirza Zein, entitled Moostufa Khan, with a force of seven thousand cavalry, and many elephants, to reduce that district, whence he proceeded to his capital, and confined his minister and father-in-law, Shah Mirza, for the advice he had given. Soon after he ordered him to be sent to his native city of Isfahan; but he died on the voyage.

Moostufa Khan, in the mean time, reduced many of the towns contiguous to Koolburga, when being attacked by Dilawur Khan from Beejapoor, with a strong force, an action ensued, in which the latter was victorious; and following up his successes, took from Moostufa Khan, before he reached Golconda, one hundred and twenty elephants, besides other valuables.

After this event a peace was concluded, which

has ever since existed; and in the year 995 an ambassador was deputed from Beejapoor to Golconda, to ask in marriage the King's sister for Ibrahim Adil Shah, and the Princess was accordingly conveyed to Beejapoor.

In the beginning of the reign of Mahomed Koolly Kootb Shah, that young Prince became enamoured of a public singer of the name of Bhag-mutty, to whom he assigned one thousand cavalry as an escort for her attendance; and as the air of Golconda had become impure and unhealthy, he built a magnificent city at the distance of eight miles, which he called Bhagnuggur, after his favourite mistress; but this city has since received the name of Hydurabad, although one part of it still retains the former name of Bhagnuggur. It is ten miles in circumference; and its principal streets, contrary to the other towns in India, are wide and clean: its air is healthy, and running streams are conveyed through some of the principal markets; on each side of which are rows of trees planted, affording a pleasing shade and sight, and the shops are all of solid masonry. The King's palace is described as the most beautiful and extensive in India.

THE Translator, desirous of filling up the chasm alluded to by Ferishta, was enabled some years ago to procure a work, entitled “The History of “Mahomed Koolly Kootb Shah,” written about the time Ferishta lived; and although the Author has not mentioned his name, it seems probable that it may be the identical work adverted to. At all events, having been translated, it is now included, in order to complete that portion of the history of the Deccan. — All endeavours to obtain some detailed accounts of the Kings of Bidur and Elichpoor have failed, although the Translator visited those capitals more than once for the express purpose of making search for them.

His origin — arrival in India from Persia — distinguishes himself in repulsing an attack on the King's person at Bidur — is created governor of Tulingana. — Death of the King. — Sooltan Koolly declares his independence, and builds the town of Mahomednuggur, near the fort of Golconda — extends his dominions by foreign conquests — takes Rajconda, Dewur-conda, and Pangul, from the Raja of Beejanuggur, also Gunpoora and Kovilconda. — War with Seetaputty Raja of Tulingana. — Sooltan Koolly takes Wurungole and Cumamett. — War with Guja Ramchundur. — Takes Belumconda. — War with the Raja of Beejanuggur. — War with Ismael Adil Shah, King of Beejapoor. — Capture of Koheer and Nul-goonda from the Hindoos. — Siege of Etgeer. — Death of Sooltan Koolly.

THE Prince Sooltan Koolly is the son of Ooveis Koolly, the son of Peer Koolly, the son of Ameer Alwund, the son of Ameer Iskundur, the son of Ameer Kurra Yoosoof, the son of Ameer Kurra Mahomed, the son of Ameer Toorsin, the son of Kurra Munsoor, the son of Kurra Beirum, the son of Kurra Toormish, the son of Ameer Tora Beg, who carries his pedigree up to Oghz Khan, lineally descended from Japheth, the son of Noah.

During the reign of Ameer Hussun Beg, ^339a the chief of the tribe of Ak Koovinloo, that monarch, satisfied of the peaceable disposition of Ameer Peer Koolly, the head of the rival tribe of Kurra Koovinloo, which had been lately expelled from the throne, refrained from molesting him or his family. After the death of Ameer Hussun Beg, his eldest son, Ameer Khuleel Sooltan, succeeded him, and adopted the same line of conduct towards Ooveis Koolly, the son of Ameer Peer Koolly Kurra Koovinloo; but upon the accession of Ameer Yakoob Ak Koovinloo, his courtiers pointed out to him the rising genius of Ooveis Koolly's son, Sooltan Koolly, the subject of our history. He was upheld as the darling of his father, and the hope of his tribe, which looked up to him for the re-establishment of its power. Historians have even gone so far as to state, that Ameer Yakoob Beg consulted the astrologers concerning the fate of Sooltan Koolly, who foretold that he would be a king, though not in Persia, but that he was destined to spread the banners of the true faith on the plains of Hindoostan. This report reached the ears of his father, Ooveis Koolly; and it was said, that on this account Ameer Yakoob Beg Ak Koovinloo sought the young prince's life, which was the cause of his being sent with his uncle, Ameer Alla Koolly, to India.

The following account from the Murghoob-ool-Koolloob, written by Sudr-i-Jehan, is stated to be taken down from the mouth of Sooltan Koolly himself, who is lineally descended from Ameer Kurra Yoosoof Toorkman, and nearly related to Ameer Jehan Shah, King of Persia, as mentioned in several histories. The birth-place of Sooltan Koolly is Saadabad, a small village in the province of Huma-dan. His own words are as follow:—“After the “subjugation of my tribe of Kurra Koovinloo “by that of Ak Koovinloo, I was compelled to fly “my country when a child, and I came with my “uncle Ameer Alla Koolly to the Deccan in “India, where after remaining some time I re-“turned to my father at Humadan; but the splen-“dour of the Bahmuny court, and the attentions “which we received, so filled my youthful ima-“gination, that the Deccan and India were always “present to my thoughts. As my uncle would “not leave so young a boy as I then was, he “compelled me to return with him to Persia. On “the accession of the enemies ^341a of our tribe, and “when it was ascertained beyond a doubt that “Ameer Yakoob Ak Koovinloo sought my life, I “consented to proceed again to the Deccan, with a “number of fine horses and other presents for the “Bahmuny king; but I previously went to take “leave of my grand-uncle, Shah Noor-ood-Deen, at “Yezd. Shah Noor-ood-Deen was my spiritual “pastor, as well as my near relation, having “married my grandfather Ameer Peer Koolly “Beg's own sister; and as he was skilled in “astrology, and by the divine favour had an insight “into futurity, he told me, on my departure, that “I should one day be a king over a portion of “Hindoostan. On which, taking from his pocket “a quantity of gold coin, he gave it to me, and “conferred on me his blessing, saying, ‘Consider “this as a symbol of your future success.’ It is “unnecessary to say that this circumstance made a “deep impression on my mind, and I already fan-“cied myself a king, when my uncle and I pro-“ceeded together towards India. Having got over “the voyage, we went direct to the city of Ahmud-“abad Bidur, then the capital of the Deccan. “After two or three days we had an audience of “Mahmood Shah Bahmuny, and presented the “horses and other rarities we had brought with “us, after which a place was allotted by the “King for our residence. Shortly afterwards, my “uncle requested his audience of leave to return to “his native country; and although the King did “all he could to induce him to remain, he could “not be prevailed on, particularly as he had just “heard of the death of the inveterate enemy of “the family, Ameer Yakoob Beg, ^342a from whose “tyranny I was compelled to fly. Mahmood Shah “Bahmuny, unable to persuade my uncle to stay, “insisted on his leaving me at the court, declaring “he would treat me as his own child. I readily “embraced the opportunity, and my uncle left “India alone.”

Mahmood Shah Bahmuny, as he had promised, always treated Sooltan Koolly with the greatest affection; and as he was informed of the illustrious descent of his young friend, his attentions towards him increased daily. This degree of favour excited envy in the minds of the King's sons and the nobles of the court, who omitted no opportunity of defaming his character to the King.

In the Towareekh-i-Hind we find it related, that Mahmood Shah Bahmuny one night having collected his courtiers about him was enjoying the pleasures of the festive board, amid the voices of damsels and the sound of music, when he was attacked by a body of Abyssinians and Deccanies. ^343a Fortunately Sooltan Koolly, with ten foreigners, was on the spot on guard over the King's person. When they heard the noise they rushed out with the rest of his guard, and having repulsed the assailants, accompanied the King, who retired to the fort. Five of Sooltan Koolly's party were killed on this occasion, while he with the other five, and the King in person, defended the palace with their bows and arrows. In the mean time a message was despatched to Hussun Khwaja Jehan to occupy the bastions of the fort with all the Khorassanies he could collect. In the execution of this order many men were lost in forcing their way to the ramparts. The assailants were in the end defeated in all quarters; and the King's guards took possession of the gates of the city, to prevent the traitors from making their escape. In consequence of the extreme darkness torches were used by the King's troops, who with lights in one hand and swords in the other fought desperately during the early part of the night. The moon rose about midnight, when the King, who had been joined during the confusion by a few more adherents, made his way good to Hussun Khwaja Jehan. He was accompanied by Sooltan Koolly, who, proceeding in advance, cut his way through the opposing foes. In the morning, the royalists appeared every where victorious, while the rebels, being dispersed, fled through the streets, or sought safety from the sword by throwing themselves over the battlements. Others, who had secreted themselves in houses, were dragged forth and put to death.

Mahmood Shah Bahmuny, who certainly owed his life to the personal exertions of Sooltan Koolly, honoured him with the title of Mullik Kootb-ool-Moolk, and conferred on him the appointment of second minister; he also granted titles and rewards to the five remaining Persians who had so gallantly defended his person.

In the history of the Deccan it is related, that when the imbecility of the Bahmuny dynasty became apparent, several of the military nobles, separating themselves from the crown, declared their independence. Among these was Mullik Deenar the Abyssinian, and Mullik Khoosh Kud-dum Toork, who refused to acknowledge the authority of the King in their districts. Mahmood Shah Bahmuny marched against them, and took their leader, Mullik Deenar, prisoner; but at the instance of some of his advisers he was pardoned, and all the elephants taken in the action were restored to him. In consequence of the gallantry displayed by Sooltan Koolly on this occasion he was honoured with the government of the province of Tulingana, and received the title of Ameer-ool-Omra, besides having the towns of Kotgeer and Ootgy added to his personal estates.

In the history of Mahmood Shah Bahmuny it is related, that after the death of Kishwur Khan, Bahadur Geelany, an officer of the Bahmuny court, distinguished for his bravery in action, succeeded him in the government of the Concan, including Dabul and Goa, and other sea-ports, and declared his independence from the court of Bidur. Shortly after which, he laid violent hands on all the trading vessels proceeding along the coast, and captured several ships laden with merchandise, belonging to the subjects of Mahmood Shah of Guzerat, which had been driven on shore.

When Mahmood Shah of Guzerat heard of the fate of his vessels, he addressed letters to Bahadur Geelany, requiring him to restore the property. Bahadur not only refused to yield up his prizes, but wrote insolent replies to the King of Guzerat's letters.

Mahmood Shah of Guzerat, in consequence, sent an ambassador to Mahmood Shah Bahmuny, requesting his interference, as Bahadur Geelany was one of his subjects. The Bahmuny monarch wrote peremptory orders, directing the Guzerat ships to be sent to Cambay, and the property to be forwarded to the capital of Bidur, in order that it might be made over to the Guzerat ambassador then at court. Bahadur Geelany, having intimation of the approach of the messengers conveying these orders, caused them to be detained on the road, and declared his independence from the court of Bidur.

Mahmood Shah Bahmuny immediately marched to reduce the rebel chief, and arrived without opposition at the fort of Mirch, where he was met by Pota Naig, the zemindar of that district, at the head of five thousand cavalry, and an army of one hundred thousand infantry; but the Hindoo chief was compelled to take shelter within the walls of Mirch, wherein he was besieged by the royal army. During the operations, Dew Naig, the son of Pota Naig, with a large force, attacked a division of the King's army commanded by Sooltan Koolly Kootb-ool-Moolk. The Hindoos fought bravely hand to hand with the Mahomedans, from daylight till sunset, and Dew Naig was every where successful. At this moment he came in contact with Sooltan Koolly in person, and was slain. The Hindoos withdrew on the following day; and Pota Naig, despairing of maintaining the place after the death of his son, sent a number of fine elephants and horses as presents to the King, besides consenting to pay an annual tribute. It was, moreover, agreed that the fort of Mirch, with all the public property it contained, should be delivered to the King, on condition that the lives of the inhabitants and their property might be spared. Pota Naig, on the day after the treaty, had an audience, and received the fort back at his Majesty's hands. The public property was delivered over in charge to Sooltan Koolly. After reducing the power of Bahadur Geelany, the King returned to his capital, and Sooltan Koolly Kootb-ool-Moolk repaired to his government of Tulingana. Shortly after which, Mullik Kasim Bereed, an ambitious noble of the Bahmuny court, seeing the King without his best advisers about him, took this opportunity of insinuating himself into his favour, and not long after, he was honoured with the situation of prime minister a second time. The first effects of his influence were the removal of the old officers from the King's person; and he at length assumed such power as to take upon himself the entire government of the kingdom. Kasim Bereed, well aware that his conduct would not be supported by Yoosoof Adil Khan, Kootb-ool-Moolk, and the other governors of provinces, endeavoured to remove the King altogether; but his plans were discovered and frustrated by the union of most of the respectable officers of the state, who resolved not to permit Mullik Kasim Bereed to continue to treat the King as a mere pageant. It was resolved, therefore, by several of the officers commanding provinces, to march to the capital, and to compel Mullik Kasim Bereed to restore to the King his authority. Yoosoof Adil Khan of Beejapoor and Mullik Deenar the Abyssinian of Koolburga, were the two who first moved with their respective forces to the capital of Bidur, where they were joined by Kootb-ool-Moolk.

Mullik Kasim Bereed, on the near approach of the confederates, clothed himself in a shroud, slung a sword round his neck, and threw himself at the King's feet, imploring his forgiveness, and craving protection against the nobles. Mah-mood Shah Bahmuny, whose greatest fault was his indolent disposition, deputed all the holy men of Bidur to go out and entreat the chiefs to desist from any measures against Kasim Bereed. It was required, however, that he should withdraw to his jageers of Owsa and Kand'har, leaving the King in full possession of the capital of Bidur; and the different chiefs demanded that they might be allowed to come to court once annually to pay their respects, and proceed to the attack of the Hindoos of Beejanuggur. After these arrangements, the chiefs returned to their respective governments.

A. H. 908.
A. D. 1502. In the middle of the year 908, Mahmood Shah Bahmuny marched from the capital, with the nobles who were in his train, to attack the infidel Hindoos. On his arrival at the town of Ootgy, Sooltan Koolly Kootb-ool-Moolk, receiving intimation of his approach, joined the royal army with three thousand cavalry, ten thousand infantry, and thirty elephants. At this time the King of Bidur was also joined by Yoosoof Adil Khan of Beejapoor, Futteh Oolla Imad-ool-Moolk of Berar, Mullik Ahmud Nizam-ool-Moolk of Joonere, and Mullik Deenar, the Abyssinian of Koolburga, agreeably to the compact of the former year. The first movement from Ootgy was made by the detachment of Mullik Ein-ool-Moolk, who proceeded by the route of Koolburga towards Bee-januggur; while the King with the grand army marched by easy stages to Rachore, one of the strongest forts in that part of India, which was now besieged on all sides by the Mahomedan forces; and the Hindoos were at last reduced to purchase forbearance, by stipulating for the payment of tribute. On this occasion the forts of Rachore and Moodkul were delivered over to the charge of Yoosoof Adil Khan of Beejapoor. After which, without prosecuting the war farther, Mahmood Shah Bahmuny returned to the capital, and the great chiefs received permission to proceed to their respective estates. The King being left with only a small force, Mullik Kasim Bereed marched against him, and besieged the capital, where he arrived

Zeehuj 9.
A. H. 909.
May 23.
A. D. 1504.

on the 9th of Zeehuj, A. H. 909; and having bribed the officers of the foot-guards, he was admitted through the gates, and proceeded direct to the palace of the minister, Khan Jehan, whom he put to death, and re-assumed the functions of minister to the unwilling monarch, whom he deprived of all authority. On the imprisonment of the King becoming known to the governors, they collected their troops as before, and marched for his relief to the capital. On their arrival they found Mullik Kasim Bereed and the King, whom he had brought out by force, encamped outside the city. The King's presence sanctioned the elevation of the royal standard, and made it appear as if Mah-mood Shah Bahmuny enjoyed his full power. An action took place, which was maintained with much spirit on both sides. Mullik Kasim Bereed, in the first instance, compelled the allies to give way; but a vigorous charge made by Mullik Kootb-ool-Moolk, on the centre of his line, turned the fate of the day, and obliged Kasim Bereed to fly, and seek protection in the fort of Owsa.

The victorious confederates now proceeded to the royal pavilion, where they paid their respects to the King, and replacing him on the throne of Bidur, returned to their different

A. H. 910.
A. D. 1504.

provinces. In the year 910, the King, having reason to be displeased with the conduct of Yoosoof Adil Khan of Bee-japoor, marched, accompanied by Mullik Kootb-ool-Moolk, against that chief; but he was again taken into favour, and the King returned to his capital. Shortly after this, Mullik Futteh Oolla Imad-ool-Moolk, governor of Berar, died in Elich-poor, and his son Mullik Alla-ood-Deen was nominated by the King his successor. Yoosoof Adil Khan also died at Kovilconda, and was succeeded by his son Ismael, while Khwaja Jehan, ^350a governor of Sholapoor, was succeeded by Noor Khan, his youngest son, who was honoured with the title of Khwaja Jehan, and assumed the government of Purenda and its dependencies.

A. H. 911.
A. D. 1506. On the following year, A. H. 911, according to the compact of Bidur, the King ordered his nobles with their troops to repair to the capital, all of whom having joined him, he again proceeded towards Beeja-nuggur. On his arrival at Dewly, the King's army was opposed by the Hindoo forces, when a sanguinary action took place. Mullik Kootb-ool-Moolk broke the left wing of the enemy, but Mahmood Shah, in the centre, gave way, and being thrown from his horse, was nearly trodden to death. He was, however, fortunately discovered by some of his troops, and being placed in a palankeen was conveyed to the tent of Meer Lootf Oolla, the son of Shah Mohib Oolla. Thence the army retreated to the capital, when the nobles retired to their respective governments. After this period, the King was weak enough to readmit Mullik Kasim Bereed into his councils, and again became the dupe of that insinuating minister. Not long after, being taken dangerously ill, Mah-

Zeehuj 24.
A. H. 912.
May 12.
A. D. 1507.

mood Shah Bahmuny died on the 24th of Zeehuj, A. H. 912, in the forty-seventh year of his age, and in the thirty-seventh of his reign. On the death of Mahmood Shah Bahmuny, the governors in their respective provinces threw off the small portion of allegiance which they latterly paid to the late king, and proclaimed their independence.

First, Mullik Ahmud Nizam-ool-Moolk, in the province of Joonere and Dowlutabad. It was at this time he began to construct the fort and town of Ahmudnuggur for his future capital.

Secondly, Ismael Adil Khan usurped the districts of Beejapoor, Mirch, and the Concan, making Beejapoor his capital.

Thirdly, Alla-ood-Deen Imad-ool-Moolk, the governor of Berar, proclaimed himself King, making Elichpoor his capital.

Fourthly, Mullik Kasim Bereed, having seized the whole of the late king's treasures, became absolute in Bidur.

Fifthly, Sooltan Koolly Kootb-ool-Moolk, who still continued his allegiance to the shadow of royalty which remained, retained possession of the province of Tulingana, making Golconda his seat of government.

From the best authorities it appears that Sool-tan Koolly Kootb-ool-Moolk during the first years of his rule was engaged in the reduction of the neighbouring zemindars of Tulingana. It was his usual practice, after advancing into a hostile country, and making his observations, to retreat, in order to draw his enemy into an ambuscade, from which he seldom escaped. Sudr-i-Jehan, the author of the Murghoob-ool-Koolloob, says, he himself heard Sooltan Koolly Kootb-ool-Moolk state, that although invited by Kasim Bereed and Futteh Oolla Imad-ool-Moolk to seize by violence the Bahmuny districts in the vicinity of his government, he always refused to do so, contenting himself with the estates conferred on him, and aggrandising his power by the reduction of the Hindoo zemindars alone, who were the enemies of the true faith. “It is now (said that King one day “to Sudr-i-Jehan) nearly sixty years since I “was first engaged in spreading the banners of “the faithful, and reducing the infidels of Tulin-“gana from the borders of Wurungole to Masuli-“patam and Rajmundry, having taken between “sixty and seventy forts by force of arms, such “as Rajconda, Kovilconda, Dewurconda, Pangul, “Gunpoora, Jirconda, Yelgundel, Mulungoor, “Etgeer, Meduk, Bhowungeer, Belumconda, Wu-“rungole, Cumamett, Indraconda, Ramgeer, Con-“dapilly, Ellore, and Chitcole. ^353a I also swore “by the Prophet and his descendant Ally, that “if I ever succeeded in establishing my inde-“pendence, I would promote the faith of the fol-“lowers of the twelve Imams†, ^353b in parts where the “banners of the faithful had never before waved; “but let it not be supposed that I took up the “idea from Shah Ismael of Persia; for be it known “I before professed the religion of the twelve (on “whom be the peace of God!) from the period of “the reign of Sooltan Yakoob, as being the faith “of my ancestors. Here am I nearly arrived at “the age of a hundred years, most of which time “has been spent in disseminating the principles of “the true faith; and I now wish to retire from “the world, and to spend the last few days which “remain in prayer.” Thus far is extracted from the work of Sudr Jehan, taken down from the mouth of Sooltan Koolly himself.

It appears from all the Deccan histories, that when Sooltan Koolly Kootb-ool-Moolk had laid the foundation of the city of Mahomednuggur‡,^353c

and that all the different chiefs, such as Adil Khan of Beejapoor, Nizam-ool-Moolk of Ahmud-nuggur, &c. had declared their titles as kings, the officers of his government recommended him to ascend the throne and proclaim himself King of Tulingana, saying they had no one else whom they acknowledged as such. As these representations came in support of several letters to the same purport, sent by Yoosoof Adil Shah and Ahmud Nizam Shah, Sooltan Koolly consented to ascend the throne in due form, and issued his mandate that the public worship should be read in the name of the twelve Imams throughout his territory. He was accordingly proclaimed king under the title of Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah.

Sooltan Koolly every year made a campaign against the infidels of Beejanuggur, and returned to his seat of government; but he now determined to select a more centrical position for his capital, and accordingly he built the city above alluded to at the village of Golconda, to which place he removed his court.

After having repaired the fort of Golconda, Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah turned his thoughts towards the reduction of the fortress of Rajconda, the ray of which place had lately made an attack on the Kootb Shahy dominions. He accordingly marched his army to that place, and on his arrival he closely invested it. In a few days his heavy artillery made practicable breaches in the fort-walls. The enemy during these operations made several desperate sallies which did not deter the besiegers, and the place was eventually carried by storm, though not without considerable loss. The Raja, Venkutty Naig, being made prisoner, was carried to Golconda.

After his return the King proceeded to reduce the fortress of Dewurconda, strongly situated on the top of a hill, which after a long siege was taken, and the Hindoo palaces and temples, by the King's orders, were consumed to ashes, and mosques built in their stead.

When Krishn Ray, the Raja of Beejanuggur, heard of the fall of Dewurconda, he marched with a force of thirty thousand horse and three hundred thousand foot to attack the Kootb Shahy dominions, which he invaded, overrun-ing and laying waste much of the country on the frontier. As soon as Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah heard of this outrage, he collected his army, consisting of five thousand horse and thirty thousand foot, and marched with this comparatively small force to the town of Pangul, where the enemy was encamped. The Mahomedan army came so suddenly on the advanced guard of the Hindoos that it fell back on the main body without making even a show of resistance. Krishn Ray, relying on his numbers, ordered the line out, and attacked the Moslems who had encamped near the town of Pangul, where a sanguinary engagement took place, which lasted from morning till sunset. The King appeared every where, cheering up the drooping spirits of his troops, who were at one time giving way before the superior numbers of the enemy. Sooltan Koolly, however, always kept a body of cavalry in reserve, which was directed only to move when it received orders. This party consisted of fifteen hundred of his best horse; and at the very time when his centre was falling back, he charged in person at the head of the reserve full on the enemy's flank. The Hindoos, unprepared to resist the shock of these fresh troops, broke, and fled in confusion. This manœuvre turned the fate of the day; and the enemy, seeing their line broken, gave way on all sides at once; and although the darkness of the night favoured their retrea, Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah was left in possession of all the heavy baggage and elephants. On the following day he laid siege to Pangul. This fort, situated on a hill, was surrounded by a thick wood: it was immediately invested by the Mahomedans, who had nearly reduced it, when Krishn Ray, hearing of the distress of the garrison, sent three hundred cavalry and one thousand infantry as a reinforcement. This party was directed to penetrate the woods, and to come suddenly upon the besiegers during the night; while at the same time the besieged were recommended to make a simultaneous sally from the fort. The garrison continued thus to make several successful sallies, which prevented the place from falling so soon as was at first expected. At length, after a period of two months, the commandant, a relation of Krishn Ray, opened a negotiation to capitulate. On the following day the fort surrendered to the Mahomedan arms, and the garrison were permitted to proceed whithersoever they chose.

The army proceeded from Pangul to Gunpoora, situated between that fort and Kovilconda. On the King's arrival he summoned the commandant to surrender, but the latter answered this message by the discharge of his artillery, followed by a sally from the hill which descended into the plain, and penetrated into the Mahomedan lines. This attack was repulsed, and the assailants sought safety within the walls of the fort. The siege of Gunpoora continued for two months; during which time the Mahomedans lost many valuable officers and soldiers, and the King nearly despaired of taking it. Gunpoora is situated on a hill, and the only road to the gate leads along a narrow pathway with a deep precipice on each side. This passage was blocked up with stones and stockades, and at the entrance were two bastions which protected it. The King, in the first instance, ordered the bastions to be knocked down, which, after some time, was effected, and then leading the storming party himself, he attacked and carried the fort, but not without a heavy loss. From Gunpoora the King proceeded to Kovilconda, which was bravely defended for a considerable time, the garrison making several desperate sallies, in which many soldiers were killed on both sides. At length, the breaches being rendered practicable, the Maho-medans stormed at midnight; and although they did not then succeed in taking the place, the besieged, on the following morning, surrendered at discretion, and the commandant delivered the keys into the King's hands. The garrison was permitted to march out with all their private property; while the public treasury, which is represented to have been very rich, fell into the King's possession, who distributed it on the spot among his troops. After leaving a Mahomedan officer in the place, the King returned to his capital, when he was met by all the principal inhabitants of the city.

During the absence of Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah in his late campaign, his northern districts had been attacked and laid waste by Kowam-ool-Moolk Toork, an officer of the Bahmuny government, who, during the late convulsions, had rendered himself master of the forts of Elgundel, Mulungoor, and some other districts, and collecting a force of six thousand horse and about ten thousand infantry, invaded the countries of his neighbours.

On the return of Sooltan Koolly, he received accounts of Kowam-ool-Moolk's incursions. He accordingly addressed letters of advice to him, and demanded restitution of the property he had plundered in the Kootb Shahy territories. The ambassadors who waited on Kowam-ool-Moolk were directed to inform him, that their master was sorry to hear what had happened; and that it was his wish to be on terms of friendship with all his Mahomedan neighbours, since it is written in the Koran, that “all the faithful are “brethren.” Kowam-ool-Moolk, elated with his success in declaring his independence, and despising the power of Sooltan Koolly, shortly afterwards sent his troops again into his territories to plunder. Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah could no longer restrain his rage, and immediately ordered his army into the field, and marched towards El-gundel. He was met by Kowam-ool-Moolk at the distance of one day's march from that place at the head of his army. On the following day an action ensued, which lasted from dawn till noon, when the King charged in person, at the head of two thousand cavalry, and defeated Kowam-ool-Moolk, who fled in confusion, and threw himself into the fort of Elgundel. To this place the King proceeded, and invested it; but Kowam-ool-Moolk, finding himself unable to contend with his enemy, fled to Berar, and solicited assistance from Alla-ood-Deen Imad Shah. Elgundel, shortly after, fell into the hands of the King, and many of the Mahomedan troops of Kowam-ool-Moolk entered his service. Having now occupied the forts of Elgundel and Mulungoor with his own soldiers, the King returned to his capital.

Kowam-ool-Moolk, who had fled to Berar, persuaded Alla-ood-Deen Imad Shah to espouse his cause, and to march to recover his country. When Kootb Shah heard of this movement, he sent an ambassador to that monarch, relating the obstinacy of Kowam-ool-Moolk, and reminding him, also, that the Imad Shahy troops had lately usurped the country of the seven tuppas, ^359a which the late Mahmood Shah Bahmuny had bestowed upon Sooltan Koolly; he therefore demanded the restitution of the seven tuppas, and required, also, that Imad Shah should not give protection to Kowam-ool-Moolk within his territories.

Alla-ood-Deen Imad Shah, however, so far from yielding to any of the above demands, sent back an answer full of indignation, which induced Sooltan Koolly to march with his army towards his dominions; and Imad Shah moved from Elichpoor, and opposed the Kootb Shahy troops near the fortress of Ramgeer. On the day following an action ensued, which lasted till the afternoon. The Imad Shahy army outflanked Sooltan Koolly's which was in the act of giving way on all sides, when he, as usual, charged through the centre of his own army with the reserve of two thousand cavalry in armour, broke the enemy's line, and completely defeated them. Alla-ood-Deen Imad Shah fled to Berar, and Sooltan Koolly directed his army to occupy the district of the seven tuppas; after which he returned to Golconda. Here he heard that See-taputty, the Raja of Cumamett, had presumed to lay hands on some of the Kootb Shahy districts which lay contiguous to his country. This raja possessed the strong forts of Cumamett, Belum-conda, Wurungole, and others, and had in his service twelve thousand infantry, noted as good marksmen. The King, in the first place, marched against Belumconda, which he closely invested. The siege lasted a considerable time, till at length the King determined to make an attempt to take it by escalade, which he effected by a general assault on all sides at once, in which effort, after losing many men, he at length succeeded.

When Seetaputty heard of the capture of Be-lumconda, which he considered as impregnable, he immediately marched with an army to oppose the King in the field, who also prepared to receive him. The two armies met, and a battle was fought, wherein the Mahomedans lost many brave officers and soldiers from the well-directed fire of the enemy's infantry, which withstood several charges of the Mahomedan cavalry; but they were at length broken, and fled, leaving Sooltan Koolly in possession of all the Raja's treasures and heavy baggage: after which the King returned to Golconda.

Seetaputty, subsequently to his defeat, fled to Cu-mamett, and despatched messages to the neighbouring rajas, such as those of Condapilly, Indraconda, Warapully, and Etgeer, inviting them to form a confederacy against Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah, who had already reduced the greatest part of Tu-lingana, and was every day gaining such ground that in a short time no Hindoo chiefs would remain to oppose his ambitious views. The rajas all united accordingly, and formed a rendezvous at Cumamett. When Sooltan Koolly heard of this league, he marched to oppose them; and a sanguinary action ensued in the neighbourhood of that place, when the Mahomedans, as usual, gained the victory; and the Raja Seetaputty fled, and took protection with Ramchundur Dew. The Mahomedan forces took possession of Condapilly, Indraconda, and Etgeer, while the King proceeded to reduce Cumamett, then one of the strongest forts in Tulingana; but as he was unwilling to spill human blood wantonly, he sent a message to the commandant of the place, informing him of the defeat of his master, and requiring him to surrender the fort to the Mahomedans, which he refused to do. Several unsuccessful attacks were made in consequence, in which the Mahomedans lost many men; till at length the King resolved, as the last resource, to make a general assault on all sides at once. Sooltan Koolly led the principal attack in person: the Mahomedans, covering their heads with their shields, and being well supplied with scaling ladders, rushed on simultaneously, and, although their loss was severe, they succeeded in gaining the ramparts, and drove the garrison before them. On this occasion they gave no quarter, killing every man, woman, and child in the place, excepting the females of the family of Seetaputty, who were reserved for the King's seraglio.

When Seetaputty was defeated he fled, as before related, to Raja Ramchundur, the son of Guj-putty, who held his court at Condapilly, and who was king of the land and the sea-coast of Tulingana and Orissa, as far as the confines of Bengal. Seeta-putty had represented to him that Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah had, by his persecution, at length succeeded in expelling him from his country; that he had now subdued almost the whole of Tulingana, and that his next step would be to invade the country of Ramchundur, which lay contiguous to his own. Guja Ramchundur, convinced of the truth of these observations, and relying on the numerous forces he could bring into the field, wrote orders to his adherents to repair with their respective armies to Condapilly, where he collected a host of three hundred thousand foot, and thirty thousand horse, all bearing lances, accompanied by Seetaputty, Vidiadry, and Hurry Chundur, as well as other rajas of note. These, having sworn to stand by each other, marched to attack Sooltan Koolly. He prepared to oppose them with only five thousand horse, and met them at the river near Palunchinoor.

The Hindoos drew up their forces on the next day in the following order:—

Guja Ramchundur, with ten thousand horse, one hundred thousand foot, and three hundred elephants, in the centre.

On the right his nephew Vidiadry, with ten thousand horse, one hundred thousand foot, and two hundred elephants.

On the left Hurry Chundur, with Seetaputty, in the command of ten thousand horse, one hundred thousand foot, and two hundred elephants: — the whole of the elephants bearing several men with bows and arrows.

Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah, in spite of the disparity of numbers, determined to give the Hindoos battle. He placed his son, Heidur Khan, ^363a with fifteen hundred horse, on the right, and Futtehy Khan, with an equal number, on the left, himself taking post in the centre with two thousand horse. According to custom he dismounted in front of the army, and going down on his knees, supplicated the great Disposer of events to give up the host of the infidels into the hands of the faithful; after which he mounted, and charged the enemy, driving the affrighted Hindoos before him like sheep. The Raja Ramchundur was taken prisoner, and his nephew Vidiadry killed by the Prince Heidur Khan's own hand; the capture, also, of all the enemy's elephants and treasures, as well as of Raja Ramchundur, ensured to the King the whole of the country as far as the sea-coast. From thence he proceeded to Condapilly, which he reduced; and afterwards went to Ellore and Raj-mundry, in the former of which places many Hin-doos were slain. Upon the arrival of the Ma-homedan forces at Rajmundry, they encamped on the banks of the Godavery, where the King received intimation that the enemy had assembled in great numbers in the woods and hills, with the intention of attacking him by night. The King accordingly detached his generals, Futtehy Khan and Roostoom Khan, to watch their motions, and to endeavour to cut them off. The two parties engaged, and the Hindoos, after they had lost two thousand men, fled to the forests, leaving the Mahomedans in possession of the field of action.

Vusnad (properly Veija Nat) Dew, commonly called Gujputty, who possessed the countries of Bengal along the sea-coast as far as the confines of Tulingana, hearing of the discomfiture of Raja Ramchundur, sent ambassadors to Sooltan Koolly. A treaty was forthwith concluded, by which it was agreed that the river Godavery should be the boundary between the Mahomedan kingdom of Tulingana and the Hindoo territory of Orissa; after which the seals of the King and Vusnad Dew were affixed, and the district of Ellore was made over to the Mahomedans.

Upon the return of the army to Golconda, the King heard that during his absence Krishn Ray of Beejanuggur had invaded some of his frontier districts. Sooltan Koolly, therefore, immediately prepared for war, and in the first instance marched against Condbeer. On his arrival there the fort was invested; but the enemy's troops from the two hill-forts of Belumconda and Inaconda (each situated about two gows ^365a distant from Cond-beer) came to the assistance of the garrison, and made several successful night-attacks on the besiegers. This mode of warfare so much annoyed the King that he quitted Condbeer, and proceeded to reduce the other two forts. In the first instance he surrounded Belumconda; but the garrison defended itself with great obstinacy, while the army of the Hindoos in the field did not cease to make night-attacks. In these assaults the Mahomedans lost several of their best officers and many soldiers. The King at length resolved to try his ultimate and favourite expedient of a general assault. At the concerted signal the walls were escaladed on all sides, and the place was carried, not without heavy loss. Having distributed the property obtained in the fort among his troops, he left Soheil Khan, an eunuch, in the command, and proceeded towards Condapilly. During these operations many of the Hindoo officers of the King's army, left with the Prince Heidur Khan before Condbeer, went into open mutiny, and the King was obliged to return, in order to support his son's authority. Meanwhile Krishn Ray of Beejanuggur, on finding the Maho-medan army had marched towards Condbeer, collected a force also, and deputed his nephew with five thousand horse, and fifty thousand foot, to engage the Mahomedans in the field. This army had now reached its destination, and proceeded to attack Soheil Khan in Belumconda. This wily chieftain required three days to give it up; acknowledging that it was now not in a condition to stand a siege against so large a force. In the mean time he sent a messenger to the King, informing him of his situation. Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah no sooner obtained this information than he suddenly counter-marched, with all his cavalry, and coming unexpectedly upon the enemy, who anxiously awaited the surrender of the fort, dispersed his troops, taking their baggage, and sixty elephants laden with treasure, which was sent to pay the troops for the defence of Belum-conda and Condapilly. Having thus raised the siege of Belumconda, the King returned to Cond-beer. The walls of this fort were shortly after battered down by the artillery in several places, and the lower fort taken, the garrison evacuating it, and retiring to the hill-fort; this also capitulated on the next day, and was given over to be plundered by the victorious army by the permission of the King; but the lives of the inhabitants were spared.

When news of the reduction of Condbeer reached Krishn Ray of Beejanuggur, he immediately detached his general and son-in-law, Seeva Ray, with a force of one hundred thousand foot, and eight thousand horse, to march against the Mahomedans. The King resolved not to weaken his army by leaving any troops in Condbeer: he therefore distributed the provisions among them, burned the gates of the fort, and partially destroyed the works, and retreating towards Condapilly, encamped on the banks of the Krishna. The Hindoos, surprised at this sudden retreat of the Mahomedans, repaired the walls of Condbeer, and left a garrison therein, making it a depôt for their treasure and heavy baggage. They then proceeded in pursuit of the Kootb Shahy army. Sooltan Koolly permitted them to approach within a few miles of his encampment, when, like the hawk pouncing on his prey, he moved out with five thousand cavalry, and fell on the Hindoos at daylight. The action lasted till noon, with equal ardour on both sides, when the enemy's troops retreated to the fort of Condbeer, to which place the King, on the following day, followed them, and closely invested the fort a second time. Finding the place untenable, the Hindoos agreed to become tributary, and to pay annually three lacks of hoons. ^367a At the same time they paid down two lacks, and gave three or four young rajas as hostages for the remainder. During these actions between the Hin-doos and Mahomedans near Condbeer, the garrison of Condapilly, chiefly composed of a tribe of Hin-doos called Naigwaries, refused to obey the orders of the King's son, Heidur Khan, and had been in a state of open mutiny for four months, when they heard of the defeat of Seeva Ray, and the recapture of Condbeer. Seeing there was now little chance of holding out with success, they begged their lives, and offered to deliver up the place to the King's troops. The Naigwaries were pardoned by Sooltan Koolly, who directed that the mutinous troops of Condapilly should be sent to garrison Gunpoora, and those of Gunpoora be marched to Condapilly.

After this long campaign Sooltan Koolly marched towards his capital; but heard on the road that his neighbour Ismael Adil Shah, the King of Beeja-poor, at the instance of the Raja of Beejanuggur, was at that period besieging the fort of Kovil-conda. For this service Ismael had already received two hundred thousand hoons; ^368a and the Hindoo envoys were then in his camp, negotiating for the payment of fifty thousand hoons for each march the Beejapoor troops should advance into the Kootb Shahy dominions.

At this period Jafur Beg, a cousin-german of the King, held the government of the fort and district of Kovilconda; and having been upwards of a month closely besieged by the Adil Shahy troops, consisting of twenty thousand men, he wrote to the King that his resources were much reduced, and he feared, without assistance, the place must shortly fall into the hands of the enemy. Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah immediately made arrangements for moving to the relief of the garrison; but his ministers remonstrated against the measure, representing that he had now only three thousand cavalry fit for duty; that all his troops were harassed, and that his elephants were weak and reduced after a campaign of upwards of two years in Tulingana. Sooltan Koolly replied, that he had not been accustomed to be alarmed at the numbers of his enemies, as was apparent in the battle with Ramchundur Raja. His officers recommended him at all events to wait till he could receive aid from Boorhan Nizam Shah of Ahmudnuggur, to whom it was proposed he should make overtures; but he insisted on marching immediately against his Mahomedan neighbour, who had attacked him without provocation. Information was accordingly given to the garrison of Kovil-conda, that the King was marching to its relief. On reaching Gunpoora he sent an envoy to wait on Ismael Adil Shah, reprobating the system of the faithful attacking each other at the instigation of infidels; on which, Ismael Adil Shah, leaving a force to prosecute the siege of Kovilconda, advanced with the rest of his army to attack Sooltan Koolly.

Sooltan Koolly now called a meeting of all the holy and learned men in his camp, and asked them if it were not lawful, by the tenets of the faith, to oppose any Mahomedan prince, who, unmindful of the principles of his religion, submitted to be bribed by an infidel to attack a Mahomedan neighbour for his sake? The council was of opinion that such an enemy ought himself to be treated as an infidel. Accordingly, having harangued his small body of troops, he marched to oppose the invader. On the right he placed Ein-ool-Moolk, on the left his general Futtehy Khan, and in the centre the Prince Heidur Khan, while himself remained in the reserve with a body of select cavalry at his own disposal.

Ismael Adil Shah, also, having drawn out his army, the two forces engaged. The action lasted during the whole day, and night closed the scene without either having gained an advantage. Three days passed in continual skirmishes, till on the third night Ismael Adil Shah detached three thousand cavalry to make forced marches and plunder Golconda. The fourth day passed in skirmishing, and the two armies, as before, retired to their respective camps. At length his spies informed Sooltan Koolly of the detachment of three thousand Adil Shahy troops which had marched to Golconda, on which he caused all his heavy baggage to be thrown into the fort of Gunpoora, and resolved to attack the enemy's detachment. After making two forced marches, he overtook the enemy, and cut them off to a man. When Ismael Adil Shah heard of this event, he fell back on Kovilconda, which he continued to besiege with renewed vigour. Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah, finding that Ismael Adil Shah had only retreated for the purpose of resuming his attacks, returned with three thousand cavalry, and encamping in the suburbs, made night-attacks, and dispersed light troops to cut off the enemy's supplies. In an action which afterwards took place near the town of Gunpoora, Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah received a sabre wound on the face, which disfigured him for life, the weapon having taken off a part of his nose and cheek. ^371a During eleven months a succession of skirmishes took place between the two armies in the suburbs of Kovilconda; the garrison of which fort also made frequent sallies on the besiegers. The attacks had not been carried on with much success, when Ismael Adil Shah was taken

Suffur 16.
A. H. 941.
Aug. 27.
A. D. 1534.

dangerously ill of a fever and flux, of which he shortly afterwards died on the 16th Suffur, A. H. 941, and his eldest son, Mulloo Adil Khan, ascended the throne of Beejapoor with the title of Mulloo Adil Shah. Peace was immediately after concluded. Among the brave garrison of Kovilconda were a number of Hindoo Naigs, who distinguished themselves in its defence, and who received handsome presents from the King for their conduct. As the army had now endured a continued campaign of three years, the King permitted his officers and soldiers to proceed to their respective homes, while he marched to his capital.

Shuval,
A. H. 936.
June,
A. D. 1530. In the month of Shuval, A. H. 936, the King had a son born, who was called Ibrahim Koolly. — At the time that Sooltan Koolly was engaged in war with Ismael Adil Shah, Kasim Bereed Shah of Bidur took advantage of that circumstance to devastate many of the northern towns and districts of Tu-lingana. After having remained some time at his capital, Sooltan Koolly was again in the field with the determination of taking revenge for the late incursions into Tulingana. He accordingly marched to Bidur, where an action was fought, which terminated in a drawn battle on the first day; but on the second it ended in the total overthrow of the Bereed Shahy troops, with the loss of one hundred and fifty elephants; after which Sooltan Koolly gave orders for his cavalry to disperse in all directions, and to lay waste the whole of the Bereed Shahy territory. On this occasion the zemindars of Gujweel, Ellore, and Tipran, came forward and paid tribute, and delivered over their country to the King's troops, of which they immediately took possession. Sool-tan Koolly Kootb Shah now proceeded to reduce the strong fortress of Koheer. ^372a When Kasim Be-reed Shah heard of this movement, he marched to oppose the Kootb Shahy army. On his arrival, he was opposed by Sooltan Koolly with half of his army, the other half being left to continue the siege: an action took place, which terminated in a drawn battle. The Bereed Shahy troops, however, hovered about the Kootb Shahies, and endeavoured to cut off their supplies for the space of three months, during which time several partial skirmishes ensued. At length it was agreed by both parties, that, on account of the approaching rains, Kasim Bereed Shah should cede the fort of Koheer, and that the King of Golconda should retreat to his capital.

Having remained for some time at Golconda, the King gave orders for a campaign against the infidels; and after collecting his army, marched to Nulgonda, the raja of which province had, during the late campaign, made some incursions into his country. On reaching the place it was required to surrender; but the demand was rejected, and the King immediately commenced the siege. Shortly after the brother of the Raja made a sally from the fort, in which he was taken, and his troops defeated. This event did not deter Raja Hurry Chundur, the commandant of the place, from making several other attacks by day and by night on the trenches, in which many brave men were killed on both sides.

The King in vain made several attempts to storm this strong hill-fort, but was as often repulsed: at length he sent a flag of truce to the walls, and proclaimed, that if Hurry Chundur would consent to become tributary to Golconda, and promise never again to invade the Kootb Shahy dominions, he would withdraw the Mahomedan forces to the capital; but, on the contrary, if the Raja refused these terms, he called on God to witness that he would send for more troops, destroy the towns, devastate the country, and thus reduce the place by cutting off its supplies; in which case he would give no quarter either to man, woman, or child, in the garrison. Hurry Chundur agreed to the terms, and sent magnificent presents to the King; at the same time he promised to pay an annual tribute. When the Raja's messengers arrived, the King said, that as Nulgonda was the only hill-fort which he had not reduced, he wished to see it, and proposed, while his body-guard remained in the town below, that he with one or two attendants might be allowed to go up and look at it.

The Raja consented, as he thought by this means to seize and put the King to death; while Sooltan Koolly, also bent on treachery, told his body-guard, that the moment he entered the fort with three or four attendants, he would draw his sword and occupy the gateway till they arrived. He accordingly took with him only four tried soldiers in complete armour, and ascended the hill. The moment he entered he drew his sword, and cut down the centinel at the gate with his own hands; while his companions attacking the rest of the guard retained possession of the gateway till the King's body-guard arrived, and, subsequently, the rest of his army. Neither man, woman, nor child, was spared on this occasion. The Raja, on being made prisoner, was confined in an iron cage, and eventually put to death. From Nulgonda the King marched to Condbeer, to demand tribute which the Raja had hitherto neglected to pay. Condbeer was, as before, vigorously besieged, and as bravely defended for a considerable time; till at length the Raja bribed some of the Mahomedan officers to recommend the King to accept terms; but he declared he would not quit the place till it was taken. It fell in a few days after. The garrison having surrendered at discretion, the King built a tower in the middle of the fort, in commemoration of its reduction, and then returned to his capital.

Subsequent to the death of Ismael Adil Shah, his elder son Mulloo was proclaimed King; but shortly afterwards the minister, Assud Khan Lary, conspired against him, and in conjunction with his younger brother, the Prince Ibrahim, dethroned Mulloo, put out his eyes, and raised Ibra-him to the throne under the title of Ibrahim Adil Shah. While Sooltan Koolly was engaged in the siege of Koheer, Ibrahim Adil Shah, in conjunction with Kasim Bereed, had attacked part of the Tu-lingana territories; and Sooltan Koolly, having now returned to his capital, resolved to revenge himself for the insult and injury done to him. He accordingly led an army against the fort of Etgeer, belonging to the King of Beejapoor, and also sent different detachments to recover the districts of Kakny, Gorowly, and Nargy, which had been usurped by Ismael Adil Shah during the time Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah was engaged in war with Ramchundur and Seetaputty. The several detachments in a short time succeeded in reducing those districts, and occupied them in the name of Sooltan Koolly; after which the King invested the fortress of Etgeer, and at the same time sent an ambassador to Kasim Bereed Shah, demanding the cession of the towns of Meduk and Kowlas. Kasim Bereed Shah, aware that he could not resist the forces of Sooltan Koolly, deputed an ambassador to Boorhan Nizam Shah of Ahmudnuggur, begging him to ward off the impending blow. Boorhan Nizam Shah, who was engaged in a war with Ibrahim Adil Shah concerning the district of Sholapoor, was glad of the opportunity of opening a negotiation with Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah, whose favour he wished to conciliate. He accordingly deputed his minister, Shah Tahir, to the Kootb Shahy camp; and it was stipulated that Kasim Bereed Shah should deliver up the fort of Meduk to Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah, who, on his part, was to forgive past injuries. When Shah Tahir reached Golconda, he learned that Sooltan Koolly, in consequence of the rains, had raised the siege of Etgeer, and was on his return to his capital. Shah Tahir was received with all due respect, and he easily procured the signature of the treaty with Kasim Bereed Shah. He also induced Sooltan Koolly to send a force of five thousand horse to assist Boorhan Nizam Shah in the reduction of the fort of Sholapoor. The ambassador having been presented with twenty thousand hoons received his audience of leave.

After a series of victorious campaigns, Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah having nearly attained the age of ninety resolved to spend the few remaining years of his life in arrangements for the improvement of that country in peace, which had been acquired by his personal valour in war. Though his frame was infirm, his mind still remained active; and he now thought of beautifying his capital with mosques, palaces, and gardens. It is related that he came one Thursday, in the latter end of the month

of Jumad-ool-Awul, A. H. 950, to superintend some improvements and alterations making in the principal mosque at Golconda, which were to enable him to enter it by a private door, and so escape the observation of the congregation. His wish for making this arrangement was, because he always fancied the eyes of the people were attracted towards him, owing to the sabre wound he had received on the face, which he thought rendered his appearance frightful. On the day above alluded to he was giving directions to the builders, when his handkerchief, which was imprinted with the names of the twelve Imams, fell from his hands. This incident induced him to put off the alterations till the next day, and he returned from the mosque.

Jumad-oos-
Sany 2.
A. H. 940.
Sept. 4.
A. D. 1543.

On Sunday, the 2d Jumad-oos-Sany, he proceeded again to the mosque; and was in the act of kneeling down at prayers, when Meer Mahmood Humadany, governor and commandant of Golconda, at the instigation of the Prince Jumsheed, put the King to death with one blow of his sabre, and he was buried in the vault which he had himself caused to be built some years before. Sooltan Koolly ruled for a period of sixty years; sixteen of which he governed Tulingana in the name of Mahmood Shah Bahmuny, and reigned as king forty-four years. He was killed in his ninetieth year.

He had six sons and four daughters.

First, Heidur Khan, who died during his father's lifetime.

Secondly, Kootb-ood-Deen, whom the King had nominated as his successor: but he was blinded by order of his brother Jumsheed, who murdered his father, and who subsequently usurped the throne. Kootb-ood-Deen died a natural death some years after.

Thirdly, Yar Koolly Jumsheed Khan, who succeeded his father.

Fourthly, Abdool Kureem, who rebelled, and fled his country, and was subsequently put to death.

Fifthly, Dowlut Khan, who was called the Mad Prince, and who died in the reign of Ibrahim Kootb Shah.

Sixthly, Ibrahim, who succeeded his brother Jumsheed on the throne.

When Yar Koolly Jumsheed Khan, the third son, found that his elder brother, Kootb-ood-Deen, was chosen by his father as his successor, he determined to assassinate him and to usurp the crown. This determination coming to the King's ears, he ordered Jumsheed into confinement, and kept him in a dungeon in the fort of Golconda. Jumsheed never forgave this treatment; and even in his prison planned the death of his parent, and instigated his keeper, the commandant of Golconda, to murder him as has been related.

Accession of Jumsheed Kootb Shah. — Revolt of his brother Ibrahim, whose cause is espoused by Kasim Bereed, King of Bidur. — Account of the origin of Ramraj, who afterwards ascended the throne of Beejanuggur. — War with the King of Bidur. — Death of Jumsheed Kootb Shah.

IMMEDIATELY upon the death of Sooltan Koolly, his murderer, Meer Mahmood, returned to Golconda; and having released the Prince Jumsheed, proceeded with a party direct to the palace of the Prince Kootb-ood-Deen, the declared heir-apparent, and caused him to be blinded. Thence going to the King's palace, Jumsheed was formally crowned under the title of Jumsheed Kootb Shah: his name was read in the public prayers throughout the kingdom of Tulingana, and he received congratulatory letters on his accession, from all the other monarchs of the Deccan.

When Jumsheed had put out the eyes of his elder brother, he immediately sent orders to De-vurconda, in order that his younger brother Ibra-him, who commanded the fortress, might be seized and sent to court. The Prince, informed of this order, proceeded to Bidur, and claimed the protection and assistance of Kasim Bereed Shah, by whom he was graciously received. Kasim Bereed, having collected his army, marched, accompanied by the Prince, to attack Golconda, where he arrived without opposition. The sudden march of Kasim Bereed against Tulingana at once alarmed the other kings of the Deccan, especially Boorhan Nizam Shah, who, aware of his ambitious views, was fearful of his aggrandisement, and immediately marched an army to the relief of Jum-sheed Kootb Shah. On his arrival at Koheer, then in possession of Kasim Bereed, he attacked and carried it by storm; and from thence advanced to Golconda. Kasim Bereed Shah, unable to cope with the united efforts of the Nizam Shahy and Kootb Shahy forces, retreated in the direction of Beejapoor; but on the road, taking advantage of the situation of the Prince Ibrahim, he so far forgot the rights of hospitality as to attempt to seize the elephants and private property belonging to him. The Prince discovering his intention immediately left him, and retreating to Beejanuggur claimed the friendship of Ramraj, formerly a dependent of Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah, and who had now ascended the throne of Beejanuggur.

The origin of Ramraj's elevation in life is thus related: — When the late king marched towards the Beejanuggur territories, and reduced some districts on the confines, he was unwilling to leave a Mahomedan detachment there, he therefore deputed Ramraj, a Hindoo of noble family, to the charge of the districts, and himself returned to Golconda. Three years afterwards Ramraj was expelled by some Adil Shahy troops who had been sent out on a plundering expedition, and who invaded and laid waste the estates in question, from whence Ramraj fled to the late Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah, who considering his flight a proof of his cowardice ordered him instantly to quit the court. Ramraj, thus disgraced, took the route of Beeja-nuggur, and entered the service of Krishn Raj, who, shortly afterwards, forming a high opinion of him, gave him his daughter in marriage. At length his father-in-law died. The heir to the throne was a child in arms; and being, therefore, unfit to manage his own affairs, Ramraj first assumed the office of protector, and subsequently usurped the throne, taking pains to strengthen his power by the reduction of many troublesome neighbours, and the elevation of his own adherents and relatives. Such was the condition of the Beejanuggur state when the Prince Ibrahim, accompanied by Syud Hye, Reihan an Abyssinian, entitled Humeed Khan, and Kanajee a bramin, besides a few personal attendants, left Kasim Bereed Shah's camp and proceeded to Beejanuggur. On the Prince's arrival he was received according to his rank, and treated with the utmost respect and attention. Some time after, during his residence in that city, a circumstance occurred which is worthy of notice. It happened that at some former period Mullik Ein-ool-Moolk Geelany having offended Ibrahim Adil Shah left his service and entered that of Ramraj, with a force consisting of four thousand cavalry. Ein-ool-Moolk had on many occasions so distinguished himself by his bravery that the Raja used to call him brother. One day, returning from visiting the Raja with his troops, he met the Prince Ibrahim, accompanied by his attendants, among whom were Syud Hye and Humeed Khan. As the road was narrow, each insisted upon the other's making room, till at length the Prince's party, being on horseback, charged that of Ein-ool-Moolk with drawn swords, and made good their way; after which, the Prince prosecuted his visit to Ramraj.

After the departure of Kasim Bereed Shah from Golconda, and on the near approach of Boorhan Nizam Shah of Ahmudnuggur, Jumsheed Kootb Shah, relieved from all apprehensions for his capital, marched to meet his ally. Boorhan Nizam Shah offered to confer the royal insignia on Jumsheed, and to crown him in due form; but the latter declined the ceremony, by saying, that if he could not maintain his right to the crown in the field he was unworthy of wearing it. After this, Boorhan Nizam Shah having induced Jum-sheed Kootb Shah to unite with him and Alla-ood-Deen Imad Shah against the King of Beejapoor, the allied armies marched to reduce the fortress of Sholapoor. When Ibrahim Adil Shah heard of this attack, he moved, accompanied by Ka-sim Bereed Shah, towards Purenda, on the Nizam Shahy frontier, in order to create a diversion, as he was unable to cope with the three confederate armies. On his arrival, he laid siege to that fortress. This measure had the desired effect of withdrawing the allies from Sholapoor, and causing them to march to Purenda. Ibrahim Adil Shah, hearing of this movement, attacked them unexpectedly at the village of Khaspoor, where a bloody action ensued, in which Jumsheed Kootb Shah distinguished himself greatly. The King of Beejapoor was defeated, and abandoned to the confederates all his heavy baggage and camp equipage. Jumsheed Kootb Shah availed himself of this opportunity to take revenge on Kasim Be-reed, whom he pursued to the very gates of Bidur, and enriched himself and his troops by the plunder of his enemy, after which he returned direct to Golconda.^383a

Kasim Bereed Shah, on finding that Jumsheed Kootb Shah had abandoned the confederacy, and gone to his capital, marched with a force of eight thousand cavalry, besides a large body of infantry, to attack him. It was not before Kasim Bereed arrived at Chilkoor, a village situated at four coss† ^383b distant from Golconda, that Jumsheed received any intimation of his approach. Panic-struck with this news, he evacuated his capital, leaving a garrison for its defence, while he endeavoured to collect his nobles, who were residing on their different estates. In order to distract the attention of the enemy also, he made a movement towards Bidur, and having reached Kumtana, plundered the surrounding district. The moment Bereed Shah heard of this circumstance he abandoned the siege of Golconda, and retreated to protect his own capital. Jumsheed Kootb Shah met him on his return towards Bidur, with three hundred cavalry, and attacked his camp in the neighbourhood of Puttuncheroo, which ended in the two kings mutually agreeing to retire to their respective capitals. On Jumsheed Kootb Shah's arrival at Golconda, he spent some time in raising money, and in collecting troops from all quarters, when he again marched towards Bidur. On reaching Kowlas, he dispersed his army to plunder and to lay waste the country. Kasim Bereed Shah moved out from Bidur with eight thousand cavalry, besides infantry, to oppose him. Jumsheed Kootb Shah consulted his officers as to his future operations. Jugdew Row Naig-wary ^384a proposed to take possession of the heights above Kowlas, and fortify them as a depôt, from whence it might be easy to prosecute the predatory warfare. Jumsheed Kootb Shah, adopting this advice, left a strong party with Jugdew Row to build the depôt, and marched to oppose Kasim Bereed Shah at Narainkehra, where an action took place, which terminated in a drawn battle; and the two armies encamped for some time within sight of each other, till a messenger from Jugdew Row arrived, announcing the completion of the fort, to which place the King proceeded with a small escort. In the mean time, Kasim Bereed Shah falling on the Golconda camp, completely sacked it, and the fugitives joined the King at Kowlas. Kasim Bereed Shah, neglecting to follow up his success, retreated to Bidur, while Jumsheed Kootb Shah took quiet possession of the districts of Kowlas, Narainkehra, and Ahsunabad, which were made over in charge to Jugdew Row.

During the late war, Jumsheed Kootb Shah had always kept his ally Boorhan Nizam Shah acquainted with the events as they occurred; and after the defeat of his troops, during his absence at Kowlas, he wrote to that monarch informing him of the circumstance, and inviting him to join in the war. Boorhan Nizam Shah, ever ready to avail himself of such an opportunity, immediately marched towards Owsa and Oodgeer, informing Jumsheed Kootb Shah that his own troops and those of Berar were on the road to join, and recommended him, in the mean time, to attack such places belonging to the enemy as lay contiguous to his kingdom. Jumsheed Kootb Shah, accordingly, marching by the route of Kowlas, joined the allies while in the act of besieging Owsa. It was now agreed that the siege of Owsa should be continued by the allies, while Jumsheed Kootb Shah should recover the fort of Meduk, of which Kasim Bereed Shah had lately obtained possession. Upon his arrival at Meduk, Jumsheed Kootb Shah closely invested the lower fort, which, after a long siege, he carried by storm, and the governor of the hill-fort surrendered at discretion. Meanwhile the allies were successful in reducing both Owsa and Oodgeer. These events induced Kasim Bereed Shah to apply for assistance to the court of Beejapoor; and Ibrahim Adil Shah despatched Yekhlas Khan with five thousand cavalry to his support. With this reinforcement, Kasim Bereed Shah moved from Bidur to Kowlas. Jumsheed Kootb Shah intercepted him at Narainkehra, and thus disposed his troops. He himself took post in the centre, and gave command of the right wing to Seif Khan Ein-ool-Moolk, and the left to Jugdew Row. Ka-sim Bereed also remained in the centre of his army, placing the Adil Shahy auxiliaries on the right wing, and confiding the left wing to his own brother Khan Jehan. After a long and sanguinary contest, the victory was gained by the gallantry of Seif Khan Ein-ool-Moolk, who turned the enemy's left. On this occasion Kasim Bereed Shah lost many of his bravest officers and soldiers, who were either made prisoners or killed. After the action Jumsheed Kootb Shah returned in triumph to Golconda.^386a

Kasim Bereed Shah, who was frequently engaged in wars with Boorhan Nizam Shah, thought it politic to secure the alliance of Ibrahim Adil Shah, for which purpose he constantly sent presents, and feigned a sort of allegiance towards him. In order to dissolve this connection, Jumsheed Kootb Shah, on his return to Golconda, wrote to Boorhan Nizam Shah, stating that as Kasim Bereed Shah was in the habit of committing depredations on the territories of his neighbours, it appeared advisable for the other kings of the Deccan to unite and reduce him altogether; for which purpose he recommended that overtures should be made to Ibrahim Adil Shah of Beejapoor, to induce him to become a party to a confederacy, in order to reduce and to make a division of Kasim Bereed's country. Boorhan Nizam Shah, accordingly, wrote to Ibrahim Adil Shah, who entered heartily into the scheme, when it was agreed that the former should attack the country of Bereed Shah, leaving the latter unmolested in any attack he might choose to make on the Raja of Beejanuggur. Accordingly Boorhan Nizam Shah, proceeding eastward, attacked and carried by storm the fort of Kand'har. Kasim Bereed Shah, alarmed at this proceeding, and unaware of the secret treaty which had been formed, left a strong garrison to defend Bidur, and fled to his old ally Ibrahim Adil Shah, by whom he was seized and confined. Ibrahim Adil Shah then marched to the southward, where he succeeded in adding greatly to his territories by conquests from the Hindoo state of Beejanuggur.

Boorhan Nizam Shah, hearing of the vast acquisition of territory gained by Ibrahim Adil Shah, was afraid that his strength would completely overthrow that balance of power which it had always been his policy to preserve in the Deccan; and, therefore, without farther warning, he took advantage of the unprotected state of the northern part of the Beejapoor territory, and attacked the fort of Sholapoor, which had so frequently been a point of contention between those two monarchies. This step induced Ibrahim Adil Shah to countermarch, and direct his arms towards his new enemy on the north. Both kings sent ambassadors to Golconda, courting the alliance of Jumsheed Kootb Shah; who, seeing that it would be advantageous for him to join one or other party, marched and took up a position on the plain of Sholapoor, immediately between the two contending armies, from each of which he continued to receive overtures, without openly declaring for either. At the same time he received secret messages from Kasim Be-reed Shah, who promised to cede any portion of his country he might choose to take, if he would procure his release. Jumsheed Kootb Shah sent for the ambassador of Ibrahim Adil Shah, and told him, that he could hold no further communication with him if his master did not release Kasim Be-reed Shah, and send him over to his camp as a proof that he was at liberty. He also required that the King should send his charger, named Subah-ool-Kheir, and two particular elephants, the one called Nanreza and the other Chunchul, when he agreed to join him against Boorhan Nizam Shah. Ibrahim Adil Shah immediately complied with the terms, by sending the horse and elephants, and by releasing Kasim Bereed Shah, to all of which Jumsheed Kootb Shah merely sent a complimentary acknowledgment. He now called together his council, and resolved to abide by their advice in this critical juncture of affairs. He stated that Boorhan Nizam Shah, who was also suing for his alliance, had been always his friend, and that it did not appear politic to join Ibrahim Adil Shah against him; nor would it be honourable in him now to join Boorhan Nizam Shah against Ibrahim Adil Shah after his late conduct. He, therefore, at the recommendation of his ministers, broke up his camp, and directed his march to Bidur, where he replaced Ka-sim Bereed Shah on his throne. Kasim Bereed on this occasion sent a number of beautiful singers and dancers to proceed with Jumsheed Kootb Shah to Golconda, to whom he gave large quantities of the jewels of the Bahmuny family, which had fallen into his hands.

Upon his arrival at Golconda the King gave himself up entirely to the luxuries of the table. He continued within the seraglio, and nothing was seen of him for months together. At length he

A. H. 957.
A. D. 1550.

was seized with a severe illness, which increasing, ended in his death in the year 957, — and he was buried alongside of his illustrious father, after a reign of nearly seven years.

Soobhan Koolly succeeds his father on the throne at the age of seven years. — Jugdew Row rebels — is reduced by the Regent, Seif Khan. — The King's uncle, Ibrahim, assisted by Ramraj of Beejanuggur, sets up his pretensions to the throne — is supported by Jugdew Row, and arrives at Golconda. — The young King is deposed.

ON the death of Jumsheed, the nobles of the court elevated his son, Soobhan Koolly, a child of seven years of age, to the throne; but as he was unable to wield the sceptre, his mother, the Dowager-queen, in concert with the chiefs, resolved to recall Seif Khan Ein-ool-Moolk from his exile at Ahmudnug-gur, whither he had been sent by the late king.

Jugdew Row, who was the first officer in the state, thought it would be best to elevate Dowlut Khan, the younger brother of the late king, to the throne, and he accordingly made overtures to Bheiry Khan and Juggut Row to that effect. These officers, disapproving of this step, and being envious of his high rank and reputation, proclaimed Jugdew Row a rebel. He immediately left the capital, and collecting troops, marched towards Bhowungeer, wherein the Prince Dowlut Khan was confined. After procuring his release, and gaining over all the Naigwaries in the neighbourhood, many of the districts contiguous to Bhowungeer acknowledged the Prince's authority.

Meanwhile Seif Khan, arriving from Ahmud-nuggur, assumed the office of regent and protector, and collecting the army, marched against Jugdew Row. The latter, unable to cope with the force under the Protector, sent messengers and presents to Toofal Khan, the Regent of Berar, imploring his assistance in favour of Dow-lut Khan. To this Toofal Khan readily consented, and joined Jugdew Row; when a severe action took place between Seif Khan and the rebels at the village of Singram, which terminated in the total discomfiture of Dowlut Khan's party, and the loss to Toofal Khan of all his elephants and heavy baggage. Jugdew Row and Dowlut Khan fled to the fort of Bhowungeer, whither they were pursued and besieged. This mode of attack continued for a whole month, during which Jugdew Row headed several sallies that penetrated into the trenches, and the besiegers lost many valuable officers and men. At length Seif Khan proposed terms, to which the garrison would by no means listen, till they were eventually compelled by starvation to surrender themselves and the fort into the Regent's hands. The Prince Dowlut Khan was replaced, as before, in confinement in Bhowungeer, and Jugdew Row was conveyed to the capital.

Seif Khan, who was now in effect King of Tu-lingana, soon began to give real offence to most of the officers, many of whom he removed from their stations; and there were but few he did not in some way or other contrive to insult by his haughty conduct. The nobles, thus driven to desperation, wrote secretly to the Prince Ibra-him, the late king's younger brother, who, we have before seen, resided at Beejanuggur, under the protection of Ramraj. On receipt of the letters, his two friends in adversity, Syud Hye and Humeed Khan, advised him to proceed instantly to the capital, and proclaim himself king. He consulted his friend Ramraj, but he would by no means consent to his quitting his service to set up vague pretensions (as he termed them) to the throne of Golconda. At last, however, Ramraj not only acceded to Ibrahim's wishes, but even offered to send his brother Venkatadry, with ten thousand cavalry and twenty thousand infantry, to support him. Syud Hye and Humeed Khan advised the Prince to decline taking this large force, which might in his name effect any thing to favour the views of their master, and even usurp the government if it chose for Ramraj. The Prince Ibrahim, therefore, having left Beejanuggur without any Hindoo auxiliaries, proceeded as far as the town of Pangul, where he was met by many of the Kootb Shahy officers, and in a short time was joined by about three thousand horse and five thousand infantry. He also received promises from the Naigwaries who formed the garrison of Kovilconda, to deliver up the fort into his hands, and to take the oaths of allegiance to him. The Prince Ibrahim immediately proceeded to that place, and was met by the chief officers of the garrison with presents. Having halted some time, he was joined by most of the principal nobles from Golconda, who now daily flocked to his standard, and he had collected in two months four thousand of the regular cavalry. By this time Seif Khan, the Protector, marched to oppose him, and reached the town of Gunpoora without opposition. The Prince, hearing of his advance, sent one of the Naigwaries of Kovilconda to carry on an intrigue at the capital, and to enter into a league with the Naigwary garrison of Golconda to release Jugdew Row from confinement, and bring him to Kovilconda. The Naigwaries were easily gained over: they released Jugdew Row, and proceeded to the palace of Juggut Row (the governor during the Protector's absence), whom they seized and put in irons, in the fort of Golconda. Thence proceeding to the houses of the chief nobles of the young king, Soobhan Koolly's party, they put them to death, and confined him. After these measures they wrote to the Prince Ibrahim of their success, and invited him to the capital. The moment the Protector heard of the failure of his plans for the safety of the capital, he wrote a submissive address to the Prince Ibrahim, begging to receive, under his own signature, a letter of orgiveness. The Prince replied, that he would make no promises until he ascended the throne of his father at Golconda. Seif Khan, ^393a concluding that this was a prelude to his seizure and execution, enriched himself with great part of the treasury of the late king, and proceeded by the route of Kowlas with five thousand cavalry and some of his dependents, towards the frontier. The Prince did not pursue him, but moved to his capital, and was met at the distance of one stage from it by all the principal inhabitants. Among others, were Jugdew Row and the Naigwaries, who came and laid at his feet the

Rujub 12.
A. H. 957.
July 27.
A. D. 1550.

keys of the citadel and fort. On the following day, being Monday, the 12th of Rujub, A. H. 957, he was duly crowned at Mahomednuggur with the title of Ibrahim Kootb Shah.

Accession of Ibrahim Kootb Shah — assists the King of Ahmud-nuggur against the King of Beejapoor. — Jugdew Row becomes prime minister — retires from Golconda to Berar, and goes into rebellion. — he is defeated, and flies to Beejanuggur. — The Kings of Beejapoor and Golconda coalesce with the Raja of Beejanuggur against the King of Ahmudnuggur. — Peace concluded through the means of Ibrahim Kootb Shah. — Jug-dew Row induces the Raja of Beejanuggur to make war with Ibrahim Kootb Shah, who is besieged in Golconda. — The Hindoo infantry officers engage to seize the King, but the plot is discovered, and the leaders of it are executed. — Conquests in Tulingana. — Rajmundry attacked. — Dhowleswur taken. — Confederacy of the Mahomedan kings of the Deccan against Ramraj. — Battle of Talikote, in which Ramraj is slain. — Conquests made by Ibrahim Kootb Shah in the vicinity of Raj-mundry. — Ruffut Khan reduces Rajmundry, Cossimcota, and Veeragootum, and proceeds to the vicinity of Cuttack. — Conquests of Condavir, Cummum, and Condapilly. — War with the King of Beejapoor. — Death of Ibrahim Kootb Shah.

AFTER his coronation, the King employed his time daily in rendering himself acquainted with the nature of his government, in distributing justice to the oppressed, and in enacting salutary laws for its furtherance and establishment. When the other kings of the Deccan heard of his accession, they sent letters of congratulation. Hoossein Nizam Shah deputed an officer of rank as ambassador, with magnificent presents, and Ibrahim Kootb Shah sent Moostufa Khan as envoy on his part. On the arrival of Moostufa Khan at Ahmudnuggur it was proposed that the two kings should meet, when they should proceed to reduce the forts of Bidur and Koolburga. These propositions were brought to Golconda by the Nizam Shahy minister, Kasim Beg Shirazy; but all operations were deferred till the kings should have an interview at Koolburga, where they shortly afterwards arrived, with their respective armies. Koolburga was accordingly besieged; but it resisted every effort of the allies for a whole month, till having at last effected two indifferent breaches, an assault was made, in which, after the loss of many of the best officers in the Nizam Shahy army, the allies were repulsed. The King of Beejapoor, to whom Koolburga belonged, unable singly to cope with their united forces, sent an ambassador with magnificent presents to Beejanuggur, to beg the aid of Ramraj, who immediately marched in person at the head of his army to the assistance of the King of Beejapoor, and on the road addressed the following letter to Ibrahim Kootb Shah: —

“Be it known to your Majesty, that it is now “many years since the two courts of Beejapoor “and Ahmudnuggur have been in a constant “state of warfare, and that the balance of power “between them was so equal, that although every “year each of these sovereigns had been in the “habit of making a campaign on the other's “frontiers, yet no advantage accrued to either. “It now appears that your Majesty (whose an-“cestors never interfered in these disputes) has “marched an army to turn the scale in favour of “Hoossein Nizam Shah, without having any cause “of enmity against Ibrahim Adil Shah of Beeja-“poor, who has accordingly sought our alliance. “As a friendship has long subsisted between our “court and your Majesty, we have thought fit to “lay these arguments before you, to induce you “to relinquish the offensive alliance which your “Majesty has formed, and by returning peaceably “to your capital, show a friendly disposition “towards both parties, who will afterwards con-“clude a peace, and put an end to this long pro-“tracted war.” At this period letters were also received to the same purport from Ibrahim Adil Shah. Ibrahim Kootb Shah consented to meet Ramraj, and to mediate terms between the kings of Beejapoor and Ahmudnuggur; for the fulfilment of which the intermediate powers were respectively to be the guarantees. About this time information was brought that Yeltumraj, the brother of Ram-raj, with a body of cavalry, accompanied by some of the Beejapoor officers, were acting in concert, and that they had laid waste a considerable part of the country in the neighbourhood of Pangul. Having communicated on this subject with Hoossein Nizam Shah, the allies marched to the southward, and the four kings met at the junction of the Beema and Krishna rivers. A peace was now effected, to the mutual satisfaction of all parties, and each returned to his respective capital. During the absence of Ram-raj from his capital, his two brothers, Timraj and Govindraj, who were placed in the government of Adony, taking advantage of his absence, usurped the control not only of Adony, but collecting a force, compelled several other districts to submit to their authority. Ramraj, on his return to Beejanuggur, wrote, in the first place, letters to his rebel brothers, which they treated with contempt, relying upon their own force; and he, unable to subdue them, was induced to send ambassadors to the court of Golconda to solicit assistance. Ibrahim Kootb Shah immediately despatched Kubool Khan, at the head of six thousand cavalry and ten thousand infantry, to join Ramraj. On reaching Beejanuggur, Ramraj ordered his own troops into the field; and having directed Sidraj Timapa, Noor Khan, and Bijly Khan, with their different corps, to join the subsidiary force, he ordered them to march against the rebels. The insurgents, finding themselves unable to oppose the royalists, took shelter in the strong fortress of Adony, which was besieged for a period of six months, when being distressed for provisions, the garrison sent petitions to the throne at Beejanuggur. Ramraj pardoned his brothers, and recalled the forces to the capital; whence, after being handsomely rewarded, Kubool Khan received permission to return to Golconda, where the King honoured him with the title of Ein-ool-Moolk.

It has been previously related, that Jugdew Row, supported by the Naigwaries who released him from prison, put to death the principal supporters of the young Prince Soobhan Koolly, and placed him in confinement. Jugdew Row also retained in his own hands the command of the fort and city, till the arrival of Ibrahim Kootb Shah at the capital. The King, feeling himself under great obligations to this chief, raised him to several high stations, till at length he became prime minister. Having attained this elevation, Jugdew Row evinced his ambitious disposition; and entertaining a secret design to dethrone the King, he proposed to place his brother, the Prince Dowlut Khan, who, it was well known, was an idiot, on the throne, in order to have the entire management of affairs in his own hands. In furtherance of this project, the minister's deputy, Ray Row, was guilty of many insolent acts degrading to the principal Mahomedan nobles of the state, who went in a body and complained to the King of the power of these two Hin-doos, warning him, at the same time, of confiding too much in them, the more especially as all the garrisons in the kingdom were composed of the Naig-waries , ^399a who looked up to Jugdew Row as their chief. The King heard these complaints, but took no measures of precaution, till at length the cruelties and oppression of the minister's deputy, Ray Row, came to his ears. About this time, Venkut Row, the brother of Jugdew Row, quitted the capital without taking leave, and proceeded to his estate; a sure indication of his intended revolt. The King ordered a party to seize Ray Row, who being overtaken was executed. Jugdew Row, upon learning the fate of his deputy, fled from Golconda, accompanied by two or three thousand cavalry, towards Elgundel, and having laid waste the surrounding country, he proceeded to the court of Berar. Here, on account of his well-known character for bravery, he was graciously received by Boorhan Imad Shah, who appointed him to the command of ten thousand cavalry, and deputed him to conduct the war in which he was then engaged with Meeran Mahomed Khan, the ruler of Kandeish. Jugdew Row defeated the Kandeish troops in several engagements, obtaining large quantities of booty on each occasion. In addition to this, he was also successful in reducing to his authority many of the petty rajas of Berar, whom he compelled to pay him homage, till at length having collected in his own jageer a force consisting of three thousand cavalry, besides a body of infantry, composed of Arabs, Persians, and Abyssinians, he set at defiance the power of the rulers both of Kandeish and Berar. Boorhan Imad Shah remonstrated with Jugdew Row, saying, “When you came “here without friends, I received you with atten-“tion, allotted estates for your support, and gave “you the command of my army. You have now ag-“grandised yourself in such a manner as to render “it a matter of state policy that you should quit “my territory; which I command you to do with “the least possible delay.” Jugdew Row, although in the command of a large force, had not yet proceeded so far as to take possession of any of the strong forts in Berar, so that he had no place of strength in which to retreat in case of defeat. Making a virtue of necessity, therefore, he said, that he would not be ungrateful for the kindness he had received at the King's hands, and, consequently, retired from Berar, laying waste all the villages in his route till he reached Elgundel, whence he intended to proceed to Beejanuggur.

When Ibrahim Kootb Shah heard of the approach of Jugdew Row with an army of five thousand men, composed of Arabs, Persians, and Abys-synians, and also three hundred elephants, besides a body of Hindoo infantry, he detached Moostufa Khan to oppose him. The King's troops fell in with the enemy in the neighbourhood of Cuma-mett. Moostufa Khan, in the first instance, sent a person recommending Jugdew Row to throw himself on the King's mercy, on promise of his again receiving the jageers which he formerly held. Instead of listening to these overtures, Jug-dew Row ordered his troops under arms, and proceeded to attack Moostufa Khan, who was also on the alert to receive him. A severe action ensued, wherein Venkut Row, the brother of Jugdew Row, was killed, and four Arab Sheikhs, namely, Sheikh Fazil, Sheikh Ally Julwany, Sheikh Abdool Raheem, and Sheikh Ibrahim, ^401a also fell in leading their troops. Jugdew Row was defeated; and, reluctantly compelled to quit the field, fled to Beeja-nuggur, leaving all his baggage and treasures, as well as two hundred elephants, in the hands of the royalists. The elephants, according to custom, were sent into the King's stables, but the treasures were distributed among the soldiers of the army.

It appears from history, that shortly after the meeting which took place between Ramraj, Ibra-him Kootb Shah, and Ibrahim Adil Shah, at the junction of the Beema and Krishna rivers, the latter monarch, on his return to Beejapoor, died, and was succeeded by his son Ally Adil Shah, then a youth. Hoossein Nizam Shah of Ahmud-nuggur, taking advantage of the circumstance of his minority, made war upon him, and Ally Adil Shah, unable to defend himself, evacuated his capital; and attended only by a small body-guard proceeded in person to Beejanuggur to court the alliance of Ramraj, who was induced to march with his whole army, accompanied by Ally Adil Shah, towards Ahmudnuggur. At the same time, these two sovereigns sent a letter to Ibrahim Kootb Shah, calling upon him, in pursuance of the late treaty, to join them. Ibrahim Kootb Shah, however unwilling to act against Hoossein Nizam Shah, considered it politic not to incur the imputation of a breach of the treaty, and, perhaps, draw on himself the vengeance of the allies, whom he accordingly joined at the city of Koolburga, from whence the whole marched to Ahmud-nuggur. The Beejanuggur troops laid waste all the towns and villages on their route. Hoossein Nizam Shah, unable to resist their united forces, having left a strong garrison and plenty of provisions in his capital, retired to Dowlutabad. In the mean time, Ibrahim Kootb Shah wrote to him privately, informing him of the political necessity which had induced him to join the allies; but at the same time assured him, that his en-deavours should be exerted to assist him, and do all in his power to induce his enemies to retreat, and abandon the war. He also made the same communications to the officer commanding in the fort of Ahmudnuggur, advising him to make every possible resistance, and to hold out till the last. The allies besieged the place with vigour for two months, and the garrison were beginning to lose their spirits, when Ibrahim Kootb Shah, with seasonable donations, bought over some of the principal nobles of Beejanuggur, and induced them to propose the return of the troops to their respective capitals. They represented that the rains were fast approaching; that the army was at a great distance from Beejanuggur; and that if the wet season completely set in, it would be nearly impossible to recross the numerous rivers that lay on the march. Ramraj, convinced of the truth of these remonstrances, consented to retreat; but Ally Adil Shah, who knew that the besieged were suffering for want of provisions, had a conference with Ramraj, and begged him not to think of withdrawing till the place fell, promising to cede to him the district of Indgy if he would only continue the siege for one month longer. Ramraj consented, and the siege was prosecuted with redoubled vigour. Meanwhile Ibrahim Kootb Shah permitted supplies for the garrison, and a number of artillery-men from the King at Dowlutabad, to pass through his camp into the place. The approaches of the allies were brought close to the walls; and the speedy reduction of the fort appeared so certain, that Ibrahim Kootb Shah was induced to try, if possible, to avert that extreme evil. He accordingly deputed his minister and commander-in-chief, Moostufa Khan, to wait on Ramraj, and endeavour to persuade him to raise the siege, but at all events to acquaint him, that the Kootb Shahy troops must return immediately to Golconda. Moostufa Khan, in his conference with Ramraj, made use of every argument he could devise in order to gain his end. The scarcity of provisions in the camp, the approach of the rainy season, the advance of the kings of Guzerat and Boorhanpoor, whom, he stated, had entered into an alliance with Hoossein Nizam Shah, and were collecting their armies to march to his assistance, were all adduced as reasons for that measure. Moostufa Khan also engaged secretly, on the part of the King his master, to cede the fort and district of Condapilly to Ramraj, if he would return to his capital. This last motive was, perhaps, the most weighty; for Ramraj immediately consented to retreat, and sent a message to Ally Adil Shah to that effect, and the three kings repaired to their respective capitals.

At their last meeting at Ahmudnuggur, previously to their separation, a messenger arrived and informed Ramraj, that Toofal Khan, the prime minister of Boorhan Imad Shah, and who was then Regent of Berar, had with four thousand cavalry invaded the territory of Tulingana, and was at present employed in plundering that country. Ramraj, turning round to Ibrahim Kootb Shah, conveyed the news to him, and also observed, that if he was in want of assistance some of the Beejanuggur troops should be placed at his disposal to aid in repelling the invaders. Ibrahim Kootb Shah, annoyed at his supposing he required any foreign assistance, ordered Dustoor Khan Toorkman, in Ramraj's presence, to proceed with a party of only one hundred cavalry to expel Toofal Khan, and to report as soon as possible the nature of his success. Dustoor Khan immediately marched with the Toorkmans which he commanded against Toofal Khan, with whom he came up at the town of Bhimkul, and completely defeated him, taking a number of prisoners, among whom were eleven officers of distinction. Toofal Khan was wounded, and made his escape, and the Mundup, ^405a or tent of sixteen poles, belonging to Imad Shah, also fell into the hands of Dustoor Khan.

It should be mentioned, that when the armies marched towards Ahmudnuggur the allies took the fort of Kulliany, and delivered it over into the hands of the King of Beejapoor. After their return to their capitals, Hoossein Nizam Shah conceived it incumbent on him to send an ambassador to Ibrahim Kootb Shah, to thank him for his friendly conduct during the siege of Ahmudnuggur. He therefore deputed Mowlana Inayut Oolla to Golconda, to offer congratulations on the safe return of Ibrahim Kootb Shah. He was also authorised to effect an alliance with the family; and it was agreed that the two kings should meet on the following year for that purpose, in the neighbourhood of Kulliany, and after celebrating the proposed marriage, that their armies should proceed to the recovery of that fortress out of the hands of Ally Adil Shah. Accordingly, at the stated period, Hoossein Nizam Shah and Ibrahim Kootb Shah collected their respective forces, and met at Kulliany; where the former gave his daughter in marriage to Ibrahim Kootb Shah; and after one month employed in celebrating the nuptials, the kings laid siege to Kulliany. Ally Adil Shah, upon intimation of that event, proceeded to Beejanuggur, and again solicited the aid of Ramraj, who marched with his army to his support. On the road Ally Adil Shah was joined by Ally Bereed Shah of Bidur, who had been invited by him to join the confederacy. On the approach of the allies, Ibra-him Kootb Shah received intimation that Ramraj, taking advantage of his absence, had detached his brother Venkatadry, accompanied by Jug-dew Row and Ein-ool-Moolk, at the head of fifteen thousand cavalry, and thirty thousand infantry, to invade his southern districts. On intimation of this event, Ibrahim Kootb Shah consulted with Hoossein Nizam Shah, when it was resolved that they should raise the siege of Kul-liany, and return to their respective capitals. As the retreat of Ibrahim Kootb Shah lay directly in the route of the allies, Hoossein Nizam Shah detached his son, the Prince Moortuza Khan, with three thousand horse, to accompany him on his retreat, notwithstanding which he was pursued by the Adil Shahy troops. Ibrahim Kootb Shah directed Sheer Khan Hussun, Arab Khan, Dowlut Khan, Sheikh Mahomed Moostufa, and Meean Bhay, with their divisions, to remain in the rear, and cover the retreat of the main army. On the first march a heavy rain fell, which continued for three days, and rendered it impossible to move: on the fourth, the enemy pressed hard on the rearguard; and although that corps kept them so much in check as to enable the main body to retreat, yet all the artillery was left on the ground, and Arab Khan and Sheikh Mahomed Moostufa were taken prisoners, while Ibrahim Kootb Shah reached his capital with difficulty.

Some time afterwards, when the confederates returned from Ahmudnuggur, they marched towards Tulingana, and encamped at the village of Tarpully, situated at the distance of thirty-two miles from Golconda. From thence they detached Jugdew Row, Ein-ool-Moolk Geelany, and Ven-katadry, to lay waste the country. Ibrahim Kootb Shah deputed Mujahid Khan with a force to oppose them; and an action took place in the neighbourhood of Torkul, which lasted for several days without being decisive. Ramraj, at the same time, detached Sidraj Timapa, the Raja of Condbeer, with fifty thousand horse, against Condapilly and Masulipatum, and his son-in-law, Jotumraj, with twenty thousand horse, against Dewurconda and Indraconda, while his own forces were employed in plundering the neighbourhood of Golconda. Several skirmishes took place near the gardens of Ibrahim Shah and the village of Beejwara. Four months were occupied in these operations, till Jugdew Row induced the Naig-waries of Pangul, Kovilconda, and Gunpoora, to deliver up those forts to Ramraj. At the same time Kasy Row made over the keys of Indraconda.

On the south Sidraj Timapa attacked Conda-pilly, and Seetaputty and Vidiadry, from Raj-mundry, attacked the fort of Ellore. The King, thus confined to his capital, resolved to march out in person, and attack the confederates at Tarpully, when a messenger most opportunely arrived from Ally Bereed Shah, one of the confederates, proposing that Ibrahim Kootb Shah should send his minister, Moostufa Khan, to camp, in order to negotiate a peace. Moostufa Khan received secret instructions to conciliate Jugdew Row, without whose good will he despaired of obtaining terms. Through his means Moostufa Khan obtained a conference with Ally Adil Shah, after which he accompanied that monarch to the tents of Ramraj, who agreed with reluctance to retreat to Beeja-nuggur, on condition of being allowed to retain the forts of Gunpoora and Pangul. The confederacy now broke up, and the allies returned to their capitals.

When the King had thus gotten rid of his enemies, and reflected on the awkward situation in which he would have been placed if they had besieged him in his capital, which was incapable of defence, he resolved to rebuild the fort of Golconda with stone and mortar. The nobles were invited to construct palaces within the walls, and the King resolved in future to hold his court therein.

It has been already related that, during the late war, Jugdew Row had induced Kasy Row, the chief Naigwary of the fort of Indraconda, to seize it; on which occasion he placed Mowlana Ma-homed Momin, the governor, in confinement. The King, therefore, deputed Moostufa Khan, with ten thousand cavalry, and twenty thousand infantry, to retake that place. The besiegers were, in the first instance, compelled to cut away the woods by which Indraconda was surrounded, after which they carried on regular approaches; but it was two months before practicable breaches were effected, when it was stormed and carried. Kasy Row, being taken prisoner, was beheaded on the spot, and the imprisoned governor released; after which, Moostufa Khan returned to the capital, and was honoured with titles, and raised to the office of peshwa. The King resolved, by degrees, to reduce the power of the Naigwaries, who, it appeared, had been concerned in the late rebellion with Kasy Row. Sooria Row, the commandant of the Naigwaries in the fort of Golconda, discovering the King's intention, entered into a plot with the Naigwary chiefs intrusted with the command of the different garrisons; by whom it was resolved that, on a concerted signal, when the King should go out to hunt in the country, they should secure all the forts, and Sooria Row seize the treasure at the capital, and put all the Mahomedans to the sword. This plot was communicated to Ramraj, who engaged to send a force to aid in the project. Accordingly, when the hunting season came on, the King gave orders for his troops and camp to be pitched on the plain, and left Golconda, about two o'clock in the morning, to proceed to his camp, and make his first movement. As soon as he had quitted the fort, the gates were closed, and the Naigwaries began to attack the Mahomedans. Two of the latter made their escape, and informed the King of the circumstance, who ordered the troops with him to invest the fort. The mutineers at daylight, seeing the whole of the army around the fort, appeared upon the ramparts, and said that they were willing to return to their duty, if the King would give up his minister, Moos-tufa Khan, whom they accused of maltreating the Naigwaries of the out-garrisons ever since his accession to power, saying they were afraid that the same treatment might fall to their own lot. The King sent for Moostufa Khan, and related to him the state of affairs brought on during his administration. The minister replied, that if the King thought his death necessary for the good of the state, he was ready to surrender himself into the hands of the mutineers. The King refused to accede to the demand of the Naigwaries, who after some days, with Sooria Row at their head, were compelled to give in; on which occasion every one of them was executed, as an example to the disaffected Naigwaries in the other garrisons.

During the period that the confederate armies were encamped at Tarpully, the fort of Ellore had been attacked by Vidiadry; but Dilawur Khan the governor resisted all the efforts of the enemy, and reported his situation to court. The King now sent a reinforcement of two thousand infantry to his assistance, and authorised him, after repulsing the besiegers, to build a fort at the town of Neerdole.

Sometime after its completion, Dilawur Khan wrote to court, recommending that troops might be employed against Rajmundry, a town situated only eight miles distant. The King ordered Ruf-fut Khan Lary, entitled Mullik Naib, with ten thousand horse, to march to Ellore, in order to be ready to attack Rajmundry. On hearing of his arrival at Neerdole, Vidiadry and Seetaputty sent to summon the rajas of Cosimcota and others in the neighbourhood to their aid. These, collecting two thousand cavalry, one hundred thousand infantry, and two thousand musketeers and rocket-men, marched against the Mahomedans. An action ensued, which terminated in the death of the Raja of Oorconda, and the defeat of the Hin-doos, who with Vidiadry and Seetaputty fled to the fort of Rajmundry, whither they were pursued by the Mahomedans as far as Dhowly-swur, within four miles of that fort. Dhowly-swur ^412a was shortly after taken by storm; and the heavy baggage of the army being left therein, the Mahomedans proceeded to reduce the fort of Tatpak†, ^412b then in possession of Nursing Row, a powerful zemindar in that part of the country. In consequence of the depth of the ditch a whole month was employed in the attack of this place, when Nursing Row, at the head of two or three thousand cavalry, and ten thousand infantry, sallied out, and attacked the Mahomedans, but he was taken prisoner, and his party totally routed. When the King heard of the capture of Nursing Row, he sent orders to the army to fall back, and to remain during the rains at Dhowlyswur; after which Ruffut Khan again proceeded to the attack of Tatpak, which was reduced, as well as all the surrounding districts of Rajmundry, when the army received orders to return to the capital, and to leave trusty Naigwaries in charge of the several forts which were taken.

Ibrahim Kootb Shah now took into consideration the danger which threatened the Mahomedan kings by the frequent interference of Ramraj. During the late wars he had not only laid waste the country of Hoossein Nizam Shah, and polluted the musjids by appropriating them to the use of his cattle and of his soldiers, but on his return he had plundered the districts of both his allies. Ibrahim Kootb Shah, therefore, thought the present a favourable moment to rouse the other kings of the Deccan, and by a confederacy against Ramraj, either to destroy his power, or to curtail it so as to leave no cause for future apprehension from him. The greatest difficulty in this plan was to persuade the kings of Ahmudnuggur and Beejapoor to unite for this purpose. To this end Ibrahim Kootb Shah deputed his prime minister, Moostufa Khan, to the court of Hoossein Nizam Shah, and from thence directed him to proceed to the court of Ally Adil Shah, at Beejapoor. The avowed object of the mission was, in the first instance, to effect a reconciliation between those princes, and, if possible, to form some family connection between them: at the same time the ambassador was directed to ascertain how a confederacy against Ramraj would be viewed by these kings. Moostufa Khan succeeded so well, that he not only brought about the reconciliation, but it was agreed, that Hoossein Nizam Shah should give his daughter, Chand Beeby, in marriage to Ally Adil Shah, with the fort of Sholapoor as her dowry; and the latter consented to give his sister, Hudeea Sooltana to the Prince Moortuza, the eldest son of Hoossein Nizam Shah; after which it was resolved that the three kings should meet at the fort of Sholapoor, and from thence proceed with their united forces against Ramraj. Accordingly, on

Jumad-ool-
Awul 20.
A. H. 972.
Dec. 26.
A. D. 1564.

the 20th of Jumad-ool-Awul, A. H. 972, the combined armies moved to the south, and arrived without opposition at the town of Talikote, near the river Krishna; while Ramraj, summoning all his dependents and rajas from the banks of the Krishna, as far as the island of Ceylon, brought together a force consisting of one hundred thousand horse, and three hundred thousand infantry, and marched to oppose the confederates.

Jumad-oos-
Sany 20.
A. H. 972.
Jan. 25.
A. D. 1565.

On Friday, the 20th of Jumad-oos-Sany, the celebrated action took place which cost Ramraj his life, and which ended in the defeat of the Hindoo army, with the loss of nearly one hundred thousand men. ^414a The allied armies halted for ten days on the field of action, and then proceeded to the capital of Beejanuggur, where the efforts of the conquerors were directed to the plunder of the country and the city, and the destruction of the stone temples. After which the three monarchs deputed severally their generals — Moostufa Khan, on the part of the King of Golconda; Mowlana Inayut Oolla, on the part of Hoossein Nizam Shah; and Kishwur Khan, on the part of Ally Adil Shah — to attack Moodkul and Rachore, which places were easily reduced. Moostufa Khan, without waiting for further orders, delivered over the keys of the forts to Kishwur Khan, which so incensed Hoos-sein Nizam Shah, that he wrote to the King of Golconda, informing him of the circumstance, and requiring that Moostufa Khan should suffer death. Ibrahim Kootb Shah, unwilling to slay a descendant of the Prophet, sent for Moostufa Khan, and taxed him with treachery.† ^414b The latter was not allowed to make any defence, but was directed to quit the kingdom and proceed to Mecca, there to repent of his sins. The King caused letters to be written to Golconda to send all the family and property of Moostufa Khan to one of the western sea-ports, to be ready to accompany him; and it is a well authenticated fact, that his wealth and family required seven hundred carriages and five thousand porters to transport it. Moos-tufa Khan left the King's presence, and proceeded direct to the court of Ally Adil Shah, by whom he was honourably received, and became his prime minister; after whose death he was assassinated, in the year 988 (A. D. 1580), in the country of Malabar, a country which he had previously reduced, and of which he was governor.

After halting for six months at Beejanuggur, the three sovereigns returned to their respective capitals; and all the districts which had been taken from Ibrahim Kootb Shah in the reign of Ram-

Rumzan 14.
A. H. 973.
April 8.
A. D. 1566.

raj were now recovered. On the following year, 973, on Friday the 14th of Rumzan, the King had a son presented to him, called Mahomed Koolly.

Upon the return of Hoossein Nizam Shah to his

Zeekad 7.
A. H. 972.
June 7.
A. D. 1565.

capital he was taken dangerously ill, and died on Wednesday the 7th of Zee-kad, A. H. 972, ^416a and was succeeded by his eldest son Moortuza, who assumed the title of Moortuza Nizam Shah. This Prince was devoted to excesses, and left the affairs of his government in the hands of Khonza Hoo-mayoon, the Dowager-queen, who in a short time becoming very unpopular, Kishwur Khan the peshwa wrote privately to Ally Adil Shah, inviting him to march and attack Ahmudnuggur, where there was a strong party in his favour. On obtaining information of this intrigue, Moortuza Nizam Shah, roused from his lethargy, called together his council. They recommended that an envoy should be forthwith sent to Ibrahim Kootb Shah, the old ally of the house of Nizam Shah, for assistance; but before any aid could arrive from Golconda, Ally Adil Shah had already reached the frontier, and Moortuza Nizam Shah was compelled to quit Ahmudnuggur. He retreated to Berar, where he formed an alliance with Toofal Khan, the ruler of that province, who had usurped the government, and confined the princes of the blood-royal of the Imad Shahy dynasty. With the aid of the Berar troops, Moortuza Nizam Shah marched to Kowlas, by which time the troops of Ibrahim Kootb Shah had also moved, and a junction was effected between the towns of Kand'har and Kow-las, where a treaty was formed. It was resolved that the united forces of Ahmudnuggur, Berar, and Golconda, should march direct to the attack of Beejapoor. Ally Adil Shah, deserting his capital in his turn, retreated to the Concan, leaving a considerable army for the defence of the city, while the allies laid siege to Beejapoor, and laid waste the surrounding country. Ibrahim Kootb Shah, perceiving that Ally Adil Shah was driven from one spot to another, and unwilling that he should be reduced to cede any large tract of country to Moortuza Nizam Shah, contrived to persuade the the other allies to raise the siege, and to return to their own capitals.^417a

After this event, Ally Adil Shah made secret overtures of alliance to Moortuza Nizam Shah, and proposed they should meet at the fort of Owsa. Here they entered into a compact, by which it was agreed that Moortuza Nizam Shah should reduce the kingdom of Berar, and Ally Adil Shah those of Bidur and Tulingana. In the first place, however, the combined forces marched to the northward against Toofal Khan, who, unable to resist them, fled to Gavulgur, which after a considerable time was on the point of surrendering, when Toofal Khan paid two lacks of hoons†, ^417b and agreed to present fifty elephants to Ally Adil Shah, in order to induce him to raise the siege. In consequence of this secret engagement, Ally Adil Shah sent a person to Moortuza Nizam Shah, saying, that it was shameful for two armies like theirs to throw away their time in the reduction of a fortress, and that it would be more profitable for them both to march and reduce Tulingana. On which Moortuza Nizam Shah raised the siege, and went southward; having, in the first instance, detached a force under Yekhlas Khan on his own part, and another under Ein-ool-Moolk on the part of Ally Adil Shah, to reduce Kowlas; but on the road an accident occurred which saved the kingdom of Tulingana from destruction. One day six thousand Marratta cavalry belonging to the Beejapoor army made a sudden attack on the rear-guard of the Nizam Shahy troops, in order to plunder the baggage. Munsoor Khan, the commander of the rear-guard, opposed them, and many troops on both sides were killed, among whom was Munsoor Khan himself. This circumstance caused a dispute between the monarchs, and brought on the dissolution of the alliance; when each returned to his own capital.

Upon the arrival of Moortuza Nizam Shah at Ahmudnuggur, he, in order to be revenged on Ally Adil Shah, sent an envoy to Golconda, inviting Ibrahim Kootb Shah to form an alliance against the King of Beejapoor; while at the same time an envoy had been previously despatched for the same purpose to Ahmudnuggur, by the King of Golconda, proposing that they should march to the river Krishna, when Yeltumraj, the brother of the late Ramraj, might be invited to join with his forces, when they could all proceed to the reduction of Beejapoor. After reaching the Krishna, the kings of Golconda and Ahmudnuggur wrote to Yeltumraj, requiring him to become a member of the confederacy; but a circumstance occurred, which tended to dissolve this union as suddenly as it had been formed.

On the accession of Moortuza Nizam Shah to the throne, he had scarcely attained his twelfth year; and the affairs of his government were conducted by his mother, the Queen-dowager, Khonza Hoo-mayoon. At that time she had been induced by ill-advised persons about her to demand from Yel-tumraj two lacks of hoons ^419a for aid to be afforded to him by the allies against the encroachments of the King of Beejapoor. Yeltumraj, who rather expected that the allies would restore the countries taken by Ally Adil Shah from Ramraj instead of applying to him for money, sent a message to Ibrahim Kootb Shah, informing him of the circumstance. The King of Golconda immediately deputed a person to wait on the Queen-dowager, expressing his astonishment at this unexpected demand; and observing that it appeared very impolitic, in the present posture of affairs, to make demands of money on Yeltumraj, instead of conciliating one who was a useful ally at the head of ten thousand men, and who had reason to bear great enmity towards the powerful state which they were on the point of attacking. Instead of attending to this remonstrance, the demand was again urged by the Queen with threats; and Yeltumraj not only refused to pay the money, but prepared to treat the allies as enemies. Ibrahim Kootb Shah, finding that matters were assuming an unfavourable appearance, sent to Yeltumraj, advising him to retreat to his country, and promising that his own troops should also move at the same time. On the following day, Ibrahim Kootb Shah struck his camp and retreated to Golconda, and Yeltumraj marched to Penkonda. Moortuza Nizam Shah, thus suddenly deserted by his allies and surrounded by the Adil Shahy cavalry, who had occupied the route by which he came, commenced his retreat through the kingdom of Tulingana; and his army laid waste the districts of Kovilconda and Gunpoora. Ibrahim Kootb Shah detached Sulabut Khan, with three thousand horse, to protect the country from the depredations of the Nizam Shahies; and orders were issued to the Munewars and Ha-valdars ^420a to throw every obstacle in the way of their march, to shut the gates of the towns, and to secure the property of the people, as far as was practicable, from their hands. The village magistrates were very active during the nights, and kept the enemy on the alert by incessant firing in small parties all round the camp. The Nizam Shahies suffered so much from these irregular attacks, that they were induced to dig a trench round the camp for their protection, as well as to prevent the approach of the Kootb Shahy cavalry, which constantly hovered round them. The Nizam Shahies continued to plunder; and Sulabut Khan, finding remonstrances of no avail, charged the rear of their army, and completely routed them. Moortuza Nizam Shah halted his line, and sent a large body of cavalry under Moatimid Khan to attack the Kootb Shahy detachment. In this latter engagement, the Nizam Shahy commander was killed, and Kamil Khan, another general, was wounded. The Kootb Shahy army also lost one general (Mookurrib Khan). Night put an end to the contest; and on the following morning the Nizam Shahies marched, and did not halt till they arrived on the Bereed Shahy territories.

Before the battle of Talikote, we have seen that Ruffut Khan Lary, entitled Mullik Naib, had marched to the south, and reduced part of the country of Rajmundry; but when the Kootb Shahy forces moved to co-operate with the Mahomedan confederated armies against Ramraj, Ruffut Khan was directed to join the grand army. Twelve months after this period, Ruffut Khan Lary was again despatched to the south, with ten thousand horse, with orders to complete the conquest of Raj-mundry. On reaching Dhowleswur, he took measures to attack Rajmundry; but the towns of Pen-tapoor and Rajpoondy ^421a being in the possession of Seetaputty, he was in the habit of sending reinforcements and provisions into Rajmundry by night, so that Ruffut Khan first resolved to attack him, and accordingly marched towards Pentapoor. On the road he was opposed by the enemy, and a severe action took place, when the Hindoos were defeated, and fled to the fort of Pentapoor. The Mahomedan army pursued the fugitives to the walls, which they escaladed, and by that means took the place. Seetaputty and his family made their escape through the woods to the fortress of Rajpoondy, whither he was pursued by the Mahomedans on the following day; but they were detained for some time in approaching that fortress, the roads being narrow, and the woods on both sides impenetrable. Ruffut Khan, having determined to reduce it, ordered the jungles to be cut down and burnt. Each day the Maho-medans advanced only about two miles, and lost upwards of three hundred men from the enemy's light troops, which lined the woods on each side of the road. At length, after some time, they cut their way to the fort of Rajpoondy, situated on a hill; but on their arrival, Seetaputty fled through the woods to Rajmundry, and joined Vidiadry, the raja of that place, leaving the fort of Rajpoondy to be occupied by Ruffut Khan, who from thence proceeded to Rajmundry. Here the Mahomedans were opposed by the united forces of Vidiadry and the Raja of Cossimcota,^422a

consisting of thirty thousand horse and as many foot, who on the first onset broke through the right wing of the Mahomedan line; but the reserve coming to its support, the troops rallied, and defeated the Hindoos, who fled in confusion, accompanied by Vidiadry and Seetaputty, to the fort of Rajmundry. After four months the Kootb Shahy artillery began to produce some effect on the walls, and made a breach of nearly fifty paces in the curtain. In this stage of affairs, a flag of truce arrived from the fort, proposing conditional terms of surrender, which the besieged said they would communicate to Yelloo Pundit, one of the Hindoo accountants in the Mahomedan army. He accordingly proceeded to the fort; when it was agreed that Vidiadry and Seetaputty, with their families, should be permitted, after evacuating the fort, to proceed whithersoever they chose, without molestation. Yelloo Pundit returned to camp with these terms for the confirmation of Ruffut Khan. The conditions were ratified; and Vidiadry proceeded to Cossimcota, and Seetaputty to Beejanuggur.

A. H. 979.
A. D. 1567.

This event took place in the year 979; and the following sentence commemorates the date of its occurrence: —

◌

“The temple of the infidels has fallen into our hands.”

After the reduction of Rajmundry, the King sent orders to Ruffut Khan to prosecute his conquests, and proceed to the establishment of the Mahomedan authority in Cossimcota. Accordingly the army moved towards Orissa; but as the country was full of woods and impenetrable forests, he gave orders to his soldiers to cut away and burn in all directions. In their progress they found the infidels collected under Venkutraj, who with twenty thousand infantry prepared to repel the Mahomedans. An action took place, wherein the Hindoos were defeated with great loss, their leader making his escape with difficulty, and the two forts of Gopalpilly and Veeragootum ^424a fell to the Mahomedan troops; from whence they proceeded to Cossimcota. Surwaraj and his brother Bhay-bulundur, two of the principal rajas of those countries, hearing of the advance of the Mahomedans, and of the fate of the other forts, sent ambassadors to Ruffut Khan to negotiate with him. A peace was concluded; and it was agreed that the younger brother, Surwaraj, should proceed, and remain at Golconda, while the elder, Bhaybulundur, should rule his country as a tributary of the King. From thence the army proceeded to the country of Gopal Ooriar, or Wooreea, who fled to Bengal, leaving his territory an easy conquest to the Mahomedans, so that it was occupied by the King's forces. Ruffut Khan now proceeded to the country of Vidiadry, governed by Velluparaj, who fled on the approach of the Mahomedans to Dewpooral, a hillfort situated in the territory belonging to Vidiadry. This place was close on the sea-shore, and almost inaccessible on account of the woods. The Maho-medans were opposed by twenty thousand infidels in the plain. These were defeated, and fled to the fortification, which was closely invested for four months, till at length Velluparaj, consenting to become tributary, ceded the country of Vidiadry to the King of Golconda. From thence Ruffut Khan proceeded to Chundurbar, in possession of two brothers named Nursing and Soorsing, who had occupied a strong fort in a pass, with ten thousand infantry, where they had thrown up a breast-work, dug a ditch, and placed artillery to oppose the enemy. Ruffut Khan halted till his guns could be brought up the pass, when he levelled the breastwork; and forcing his way through, he attacked the infidels, and the two Hindoo brothers were taken prisoners; after which the country submitted to the King of Golconda.

As Ruffut Khan had been successfully employed during the last two years in reducing many of the forts and districts of Rajmundry and Cossimcota, he now resolved to attack Veij Nat Dew, the most formidable of all the rajas of that country. He commenced his operations by the capture of the hill-fort of Potnoor, wherein was taken the brother of the Raja. From thence he proceeded to Kun-doo-Deva Pully, the principal hold of that chief; which also fell to the prowess of the Mahomedan arms; but the time occupied in these sieges afforded Veij Nat Dew an opportunity to collect his army; and he accordingly marched to oppose the invader at the head of five thousand cavalry, fifty thousand infantry, and five hundred elephants. Ruffut Khan was not backward to come to action; and a battle ensued, in which the Mahomedans were completely victorious, and the Raja fled to his capital; and soon after he sent out his eldest son to Ruffut Khan as ambassador, to conclude a peace; in which it was stipulated, that the Raja should pay annually thirty thousand hoons as a tribute to the Kootb Shahy state, and make an offering of forty elephants. To these terms Ruffut Khan was glad to accede, as a considerable disaffection and discontent prevailed in his army, and as he had already reduced the whole of the districts along the seacoast as far as Rajamurda.^426a

Let us now return to the affairs of the kings of the Deccan. The Queen-dowager of Ahmud-nuggur had by her conduct excited universal discontent among all the officers of the government, who conspired against her, and persuaded the young King, Moortuza Nizam Shah, to seize and confine her in the fort of Dowlutabad; while her two brothers, the King's uncles, Ein-ool-Moolk and Taj Khan, fled from the capital. Their departure and the seizure of the Queen threw affairs into the utmost confusion, and the young King was not of an age or of a temper to act with much discretion. Ally Adil Shah, the ancient enemy of the house of Nizam Shah, taking advantage of the moment, deputed his general Kishwur Khan Lary, with twenty thousand horse, to lay waste and occupy as much of the Ahmudnuggur territory as he could seize. He first of all devastated the country of Kondana†, ^426b and then proceeded to D'harore; which place he took, and ordered it to be strongly fortified, placing a garrison of Adil Shahy troops within it. From thence he wrote a letter to Moortuza Nizam Shah, telling him that he had left him the fort of Dowlutabad to repair to; but that if he did not immediately evacuate his capital and proceed thither, he would march to Ahmudnuggur, and oblige him to do so. Moortuza Nizam Shah instantly despatched his general, Khwaja Meeruk Dubeer Isfahany, entitled Chungiz Khan, with ten thousand cavalry, to resent this insulting language, and he accordingly marched and invested the fort of D'harore. The sudden arrival of the Nizam Shahy troops so alarmed the Adil Shahy garrison, that Ein-ool-Moolk, Ankoos Khan, and Azeez-ool-Moolk, three of the principal officers of Kishwur Khan's force, fled without drawing their swords; while Kishwur Khan, seeing he had no alternative but to fight, resolved to defend the place against the Nizam Shahy troops, who escaladed it on the next morning, and Kishwur Khan was killed in the assault. ^427a Ally Adil Shah no sooner heard of the fate of his general than he detached Noor Khan, Ein-ool-Moolk, and Zureef-ool-Moolk, to the borders, to invade the Nizam Shahy territories, and plunder and devastate the country, while he himself, with fifty thousand horse, took the field, with the determination, if possible, of conquering the Ahmudnuggur dominions. Moortuza Nizam Shah, unable alone to cope with Ally Adil Shah, had recourse to Ibrahim Kootb Shah for aid, who proceeded with his army first to Bidur, and having induced Ally Bereed Shah to unite in the confederacy, they marched together to join Moortuza Nizam Shah, whom they met at the town of Nagdurry, where they swore to stand by each other. The oaths were taken upon a Koran in the possession of the latter, said to be written by Ally, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet. On this occasion it was agreed that they should proceed and attack the Beejapoor territories without delay. Ally Adil Shah, suspecting that his minister, Shah Abool Hussun, the son of the late famous Shah Tahir of Ahmudnuggur, had promoted this confederacy, put him into confinement. Syud Moortuza, a nobleman of the Nizam Shahy court, was at this time in the Beejapoor camp. He had fled during the late revolution from Ahmudnuggur, and came over to Ally Adil Shah, where he renewed his friendship with Shah Abool Hussun. On the present occasion, Syud Moortuza, desirous of effecting the release of the minister, applied to Ally Adil Shah to be allowed to proceed in character of envoy to the confederates, and through his influence negotiate a peace, a measure which the King had at heart. Syud Moortuza was accordingly deputed to proceed to the Nizam Shahy camp, and having had an audience of Moortuza Nizam Shah, laid his head on the King's feet, and vowed he would not rise till his Majesty promised to obtain the release of the son of the late Shah Tahir, to whom the house of Ahmudnuggur was under such obligations; declaring, at the same time, that nothing but concluding a treaty of peace with Ally Adil Shah could effect this object. Moortuza Nizam Shah at once forgot his enmity to Ally Adil Shah, and consented to listen to terms, on condition that Shah Abool Hussun should be released, and be employed as ambassador to conclude the treaty. Shah Abool Hussun accordingly proceeded with magnificent presents to the camp of the confederates. While in the camp, he persuaded Moor-tuza Nizam Shah to attack Ibrahim Kootb Shah's forces as well as those of Ally Bereed Shah, and by thus making a bold stroke at first, follow it up, and reduce the countries of Tulingana and Bidur. Moortuza Nizam Shah, young, thoughtless, and impetuous, eagerly adopted the proposition, and attacked his allies, who defended themselves with bravery, and contrived to retreat to Bidur, whence Ibrahim Kootb Shah proceeded to Golconda.

On the return of Ibrahim Kootb Shah to his capital, he resolved to be revenged on Moor-tuza Nizam Shah for his late treachery; and as the latter always obtained assistance from the Berar court, he determined to anticipate that step by sending an envoy to Toofal Khan, the Regent of Berar, inviting him to an alliance against Moortuza Nizam Shah, to whom he could owe no friendship, since the invasion of his country, and the siege of Gavul. Toofal Khan, glad of an opportunity of revenging himself on Moortuza Nizam Shah, readily acceded to the proposed alliance, and despatched his son, Shumsheer-ool-Moolk, with three thousand cavalry to join Ibrahim Kootb Shah; who having collected his own army, proceeded, under the pretence of hunting, towards Bidur, when he was joined, between that city and the town of Kowlas, by the Berar auxiliaries, as well as by Ally Bereed Shah. Thence they deputed ambassadors to Ally Adil Shah, inviting him, also, to join the confederacy. Moortuza Nizam Shah, far from being idle, also collected his army, and determined to prevent the junction of Ally Adil Shah, either by force or stratagem. He accordingly moved towards Beejapoor with his whole force, deputing his minister, Chungiz Khan, with large presents, to the Adil Shahy camp, in order to prevent its union with the confederates; but, at any rate, to make such good use of his money among the courtiers as to detain the King of Beejapoor for some time, till he should hear of the approach of the Nizam Shahies. Chungiz Khan overtook Ally Adil Shah at the fort of Nuldoorg, where he displayed so much diplomatic skill as to induce the King to give up the idea of joining the allies at all, and to consent to meet Moortuza Nizam Shah on friendly terms. Ibrahim Kootb Shah, alarmed at this sudden alteration in the measures of the Adil Shahy court, broke up the confederacy, dismissing the Berar auxiliaries with handsome rewards, and recommending Ally Bereed Shah to repair to the fort of Bidur; at the same time promising his aid in case of invasion and attack. Upon his arrival at Golconda, he pitched the royal pavilion on the plain, and directed all the Naigwary infantry of the realm to repair to his standard. These preparations were not unnecessary; for Moortuza Nizam Shah having made a convert of Ally Adil Shah to his cause, they both marched with the determination of reducing the kingdoms of Tulingana and Bidur; to which latter city they proceeded, the Adil Shahies encamping in the neighbourhood of the Houz-i-Kumt'hana, while the Nizam Shahies invested the fort of Bidur. Ibrahim Kootb Shah no sooner heard of the attack on Bidur than he made preparations for the defence of Golconda. On this occasion he ordered pavilions to be pitched on the bastions, and adorned them with rich brocades and silks from China and with velvets of European manufacture, giving himself up to the gratification of listening “to the “enchanting vocal and instrumental music of heart-“alluring damsels and fairy-faced virgins.” At the same time he detached a force of four thousand cavalry and ten thousand light infantry, under Sula-but Khan, to hover round the enemy, and to make night-attacks on the besiegers at Bidur. The Munewar infantry were eminently successful in all directions, and at all hours, bringing nightly between three and four hundred noses and ears from the enemy's lines; and they received for each nose a hoon, and for each ear a purtab. ^431a During the day, the cavalry made their attacks at favourable moments on the besiegers, who were distressed for want of supplies, and weary for want of sleep, owing to the constant assaults both of the cavalry and infantry. Determined to raise the siege, but apprehensive least Ibrahim Kootb Shah should attack them if they separated, Ally Adil Shah deputed Kamil Khan with fifteen thousand horse, and Moor-tuza Nizam Shah sent Mirza Yadgar with an equal number, to remain in the neighbourhood of Kowlas. Moortuza Nizam Shah then proceeded to punish Toofal Khan for the assistance he had given in the preceding year to Ibrahim Kootb Shah; and Ally Adil Shah marched to the south against Bun-kapoor and the Hindoo territories dependent on Beejanuggur.

It appears that in the retreat of the Beejapoo-ries, Ally Adil Shah had intrusted his family to the care of Yeswunt Row, Bhoj Mul Naig, and Dew Naig, three Marratta officers who commanded six thousand Bergy cavalry, with orders to escort them direct to Beejapoor; instead of which, they, in the first instance, made an incursion, as is usual with those freebooters, into the Kootb Shahy dominions. Sulabut Khan Afshar, a Golconda general, came up with and completely defeated them, taking the two famous elephants called Futteh Lushkur and Futteh Jung, and the fish-standard ^432a from the enemy, while Yeswunt Row had much difficulty in carrying off the ladies in safety.

It has been before observed, that the allies left thirty thousand horse in the neighbourhood of Kowlas to cover the retreat of the two armies, the one proceeding to Berar and the other towards Bunkapoor. This division accordingly laid waste and plundered the country on the borders of Tu-lingana. Ibrahim Kootb Shah despatched Meer Shah Mahomed Anjoo with eight thousand cavalry to oppose them, and also permitted his relation, Mirza Hoossein Beg Toorkman, with four hundred Toorkmans, to accompany the Golconda division. Between Kowlas and Daigloor, the troops were opposed by Syud Heidur, the governor of the latter place, who very imprudently attacked the King's forces with less than three thousand cavalry and some infantry; but he was easily defeated, and pursued into the fort of Daigloor, which thus fell without resistance. On the following day, Shah Mahomed Anjoo marched and encamped on the plain between Daigloor and Kand'har, in the neighbourhood of the enemy's camp. He was opposed, in the first instance, by the Marratta cavalry under Buswunt Row, Viswas Row, and Koly Row, who commanded the advance composed of six thousand mares, ^433a which was repulsed by the valour of Mirza Hoossein Beg and the Toorkmans, and many Kolies† ^433b lost their lives. Thus ended the action of the first day. On the following day, Mirza Hoossein Beg, with his Toork-mans, was directed to attack a party of the enemy who made their appearance; and Sulabut Khan Afshar, with three thousand cavalry, was sent to support him, while Shah Mahomed Anjoo, with the rest of the army, followed. Soon after, a bloody battle ensued, in which neither gained any decided advantage. On the following day, the Golconda troops, finding the enemy had decamped in the night, pursued them, and encamped in their neighbourhood. Mirza Yadgar, with ten thousand chosen cavalry from the allied troops, consisting chiefly of foreigners, advanced to the attack; while Mirza Hoossein Beg with his Toork-mans, without orders, mounted, and engaged the enemy. The commander-in-chief, Sulabut Khan, with two thousand cavalry, subsequently went to his support, and after another severe engagement, the allied troops were defeated; notwithstanding which, they returned to the attack, and several skirmishes occurred during a whole month. At length a general action ensued, when the confederates were entirely routed; and the Kootb Shahy troops, after having taken possession of the camp-equipage, baggage, &c. of the enemy, returned in triumph to Golconda.

It has been already mentioned, that the allied monarchs, having raised the siege of Bidur, separated. Moortuza Nizam Shah marched north against Toofal Khan of Berar, and Ally Adil Shah proceeded south to attack the country of Beejanuggur, and wrest it out of the hands of Sree Runga Ray. This prince, unable to cope with the Beejapoor forces, deputed an envoy with magnificent presents to Ibrahim Kootb Shah at Golconda, soliciting his aid against their common enemy. It had been always an understood principle with the Mahomedan kings of the Deccan not to invade the Beejanuggur territories without the general consent of the whole. Ibrahim Kootb Shah, therefore, readily agreed to the overtures of Sree Runga Ray, promising to oppose Ally Adil Shah, and prevent him from making further aggressions. Accordingly, he detached his general, Shah Mahomed Anjoo, with a light force, to skirmish and plunder the borders of the Adil Shahy dominions, while he prepared to move to the southward to the support of Sree Runga Ray. On the Beejanuggur frontier he was joined by Shah Mahomed Anjoo, after he had sacked the towns and laid waste the enemy's country, agreeably to his instructions. He was shortly afterwards met by Sree Runga Ray, and their junction induced Ally Adil Shah to raise the siege of Bee-januggur, and return to Beejapoor; in consequence of which, the allied armies separated, and each repaired to his respective capital.

It appears, from the best authorities, that from the reign of the late Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah, the rajas Venkatadry, Kustoory Timraj, and Nursing Row, used to pay an annual tribute of two lacks of hoons into the Golconda treasury, agreeably to an ancient compact made upon the first reduction of the fort of Condbeer. For the last few years, however, since the King had been engaged in war with the other kings of the Deccan, the usual tribute had not only been withheld, but the rajas had had the confidence to cross the Krishna, and attack the fort of Condapilly, and lay waste the district. Ibrahim Kootb Shah, having been long engaged in the defence of his northern frontier, was unable, for some years, to spare a sufficient force to repel the invaders. However, having given his soldiers some respite from their toils, he now determined to punish the rajas of whom we have been speaking, and accordingly detached a large army under the command of his general, Imad-ood-Deen Mahmood Shirazy, entitled Heidur-ool-Moolk, to march and recover the fort of Cond-beer. Having crossed the Krishna, he first reduced the fort of Inaconda, and then marched against the strong fort of Cacherlacota, defended by Kustoory Rungia and Moodna Chinia with twenty thousand infantry; but on the approach of the Mahomedans they evacuated it without firing a shot, and it was occupied by the King's forces. Thence Heidur-ool-Moolk marched against the fort of Cummum, which also fell without opposition. Having left a garrison therein, the Mahomedans returned to Condbeer. Here Heidur-ool-Moolk was informed, that Kundy Timuna, Moodna Chinia, and Kustoory Rungia, had collected a force of thirty thousand men, and were on the point of marching to attack him: he therefore deferred the siege of Condbeer, and moved to meet them. The Hindoo infantry poured in on the King's troops on all sides from the woods; but they only rushed on to their own destruction. The Mahomedans gained a complete victory, and pursued the enemy to the fort of Goorum, which surrendered. The general now marched to the attack of Belumconda, which fell; and having occupied all the minor forts in that neighbourhood, Heidur-ool-Moolk proceeded to Condbeer, the capital of the province. A long time was expended in attempting to reduce this strong fortress without effect; and Heidur-ool-Moolk found it necessary to apply for reinforcements to Golconda, on which Ibrahim Kootb Shah appointed Syud Shah Tucky, known by the appellation of Ameer Shah Meer, with a considerable detachment of Moguls and Persians, to proceed and to take the command from Heidur-ool-Moolk of all the forces south of the Krishna. On his arrival at Condbeer, Shah Meer made many attempts to carry the place by escalade, but invariably failed, till at length he resolved, whatever might be the loss sustained, to drag his guns up the hill to within a moderate distance of the walls. By this means part of one face was battered down, and an attack made one morning both at the breach and on the south gateway. The Hindoos were prepared to receive the storming parties, and fought desperately; but they were driven back, though not without heavy loss on the part of the assailants. The fort was eventually taken, through the ex-

Suffur,
A. H. 987.
April,
A. D. 1579.

ertions of the elephants, who forced open one side of the gate. The Mahomedans then rushing in took the place, in the month of Suffur, A. H. 987; and Ku-poory Timraj, son-in-law of the celebrated Ram-raj of Beejanuggur, fell into the hands of the victors. Thus the province of Condbeer was reduced, as well as all the smaller forts, including two or three sea-ports; so that the whole country, from the sea-shore as far as the Beejanuggur frontier, was occupied by Ameer Shah Meer, who, taking with him his prisoner Kupoory Timraj, returned victorious to Golconda.

About this time, Moortuza Nizam Shah determined to reduce the fort of Bidur, and to conquer the territory of Bereed Shah; but as he knew that the object could not be accomplished without the concurrence of Ibrahim Kootb Shah, he deputed Meer Abool Kasim as ambassador to the court of Golconda, who induced the King to send Ameer Shah Meer, with ten thousand horse, to assist the King of Ahmudnuggur. Ally Bereed Shah deputed an ambassador to the court of Beejapoor, and solicited Ally Adil Shah to march to his aid. The latter consented; but required, as a preliminary, that Ally Bereed should give up a certain young eunuch, celebrated for his beauty throughout the Deccan, and to whom he was much attached. The reduction of the fort of Bidur appearing inevitable without assistance from Beejapoor, Ally Bereed reluctantly agreed to the demand of Ally Adil Shah. When the latter heard of the approach of this youth, he went out to meet him, and appointed an elegant palace for his reception. But on his first interview, the young man was so incensed at the behaviour of Ally Adil Shah, that, drawing forth a

dagger, he stabbed the King to the heart. ^439a This event happened on the night of Thursday, the 23d of Suffur, A. H. 987.

The eunuch, as might be expected, fell a victim to his conduct. Ally Adil Shah having left no children was succeeded by his nephew Ibrahim, the son of his brother Tahmasp; but as the death of his uncle was succeeded by internal commotions, and as Ibrahim was himself very young, Moortuza Nizam Shah took the opportunity of attacking his territories; for which purpose he appointed Behzad-ool-Moolk Toork, with an army, to invade Bee-japoor. Behzad-ool-Moolk was opposed by the Beejapoor troops at the village of Darasun, situated between Nuldoorg and Sholapoor, where he sustained a defeat, and was pursued to the neighbourhood of Bidur. The Nizam Shahies, in their retreat, formed a junction with Syud Moor-tuza, a Nizam Shahy general who had marched from Berar to assist in the siege. Moortuza Nizam Shah now recalled Behzad-ool-Moolk from the field, giving the supreme command to Syud Moortuza, who, after having been joined by Ameer Shah Meer and the Kootb Shahy auxiliaries, marched to Nul-doorg, where the army of Ibrahim Adil Shah was still encamped. Another action ensued, after which the Beejapoor troops took refuge in the fort. A great part of the Beejapoor army being now closely besieged in Nuldoorg, it was thought advisable for the allies to proceed to Beejapoor itself. Accordingly they marched at midnight; but the troops in Nuldoorg hearing of their intention quitted the fort soon after sunset, and proceeded with expedition to their capital, which they reached before the enemy. On the arrival of the allies they were opposed by Yekhlas Khan and Dilawur Khan with great bravery, who had nearly defeated the Nizam Shahy troops, when the Golconda cavalry charging, turned the fate of the day, and the Adil Shahies were compelled to seek shelter within the walls of the city, leaving two elephants, Atushpara and Koohpara ^440a in the hands of the enemy. On the following day, a body of Abyssinians made a sally from the fort, but were repulsed. At this time news arrived, that Ameer Zein, who had been sent with a division of Kootb Shahy troops from Golconda to reduce the districts of Nakavy, Culloor, and Kakny, after having occupied those places, was on the march to join the allies at Beejapoor; but Ibrahim Adil Shah determining, if possible, to prevent this junction, directed Mirza Noor-ood-Deen Nyshapoory, with five thousand cavalry, to march at night and intercept the detachment under Ameer Zein.

The districts of Kakny, Culloor, and Nakavy, were originally taken by Sooltan Koolly Kootb Shah from the Hindoos; but in the short reign of Soobhan Koolly, Ally Adil Shah had wrested them from the Golconda officers; and although Ibrahim Kootb Shah was at all times ready to assert his just claims, yet from the constant warfare in which he had been engaged it was not thought politic to demand them from Ally Adil Shah while he was in alliance, or desirable to engage in war merely for their sake. The demand was, therefore, never made; but now an opportunity presented itself of recovering them that could not be resisted; for which purpose, Ameer Zein with a considerable force had been appointed. This general was at first opposed by Dowlut Khan and Meean Boodoo, who were defeated, and compelled to fly. The towns of Kakny, Nakavy, and Kurnul, fell into Ameer Zein's hands; and having left garrisons in each, he proceeded to the fort of Culloor, which was also taken without opposition. At this time, Ameer Zein received information that one hundred and fifty elephants belonging to Ibrahim Adil Shah, which were at Sagur, were proceeding to Beejapoor; he accordingly marched to intercept them; but the elephants had returned to Sagur, and he was disappointed of his prey. The commandant of Sagur, Syud Ashruf, with a party of three thousand Marratta cavalry, attacked the Kootb Shahies, but was defeated with great loss, and himself taken prisoner. Ameer Zein now set fire to the town of Sagur, and proceeded to reduce the fort of Madurgy, which soon fell, thence he marched to Etgeer, where he defeated another detachment of Adil Shahy troops. Having recovered all the estates formerly belonging to the Golconda government, Ameer Zein was directed to levy a lack of hoons (40,000l.), and to collect ten thousand candies of grain from the inhabitants, and march to Beejapoor. The enemy made great exertions to intercept this convoy; and fifty thousand infantry, from the forts of Nulgonda, ^442a Koolburga, and Sagur, attacked Ameer Zein at the village of Ulmulla; but they were defeated with the loss of two thousand men, after which the convoy continued its march. It was again intercepted by thirty thousand infantry, and measures adopted to prevent his cavalry from obtaining forage: indeed every effort was made on the part of Beeja-poor to cut off Ameer Zein's detachment before its junction with the allied army; for which purpose Mirza Noor-ood-Deen Nyshapoory, with five thousand cavalry, had been detached from the fort. The besiegers, having intimation of his march, sent an equal force to pursue him; which overtaking the Beejapoor troops on the second day routed them, and enabled Ameer Zein, with his valuable supply of money and provisions, to join the allies in spite of all the exertions of the enemy. At this time a civil war raged within the town; and Kishwur Khan and Ein-ool-Moolk, two of the principal officers of the Beejapoor court, were compelled to fly from the fury of the Abyssinians, and to seek protection in the allied camp.

On the following day, the Abyssinians sent one of their party privately to Syud Moortuza, commander-in-chief of the Nizam Shahy troops, proposing to replace Shah Abool Hussun, the son of Shah Tahir (who was a great friend of Syud Moortuza), in the situation of minister at Beejapoor, on condition that the Nizam Shahy troops should attack Ameer Shah Meer, the commander-in-chief of the Kootb Shahy troops. So little care was taken by the parties to conceal this proposal, that it accidentally came to the ears of Ameer Shah Meer himself. Syud Moortuza, finding the secret had been discovered, instantly went to Ameer Shah Meer and communicated to him, with apparent frankness, the overtures which the Abyssinians of Beejapoor had made, and they agreed to take the most solemn oaths to support each other. The Abyssinians, defeated in this plot, devised another method of raising the siege. They employed ten thousand Marratta cavalry to harass the foragers, and so cut off supplies. In this system of warfare they were so successful that the allies found it impossible to continue the blockade, and therefore determined to ravage the country. They accordingly raised the siege, and laid waste and plundered the districts of Mirch, Raybagh, Punala, Satara, and Hookery. Thence they proceeded towards Kool-burga, and determined to besiege the fort of Nul-doorg. At this time news arrived of the death of Ibrahim Kootb Shah of Golconda, and of the accession of his son, Mahomed Koolly Kootb Shah, to the throne.

When the late king, Ibrahim Kootb Shah, had settled the countries of the Hindoos on his southern frontier, and despatched his commander. Ameer Shah Meer, to oppose the armies of his Maho-medan neighbours, he vested the management of the affairs of his government in the hands of one Moorhary Row, a Marratta bramin, to whom was attached a body of ten thousand infantry, under the command of Mahomedan officers of rank, with permission to beat the nobut. Moorhary Row was in every respect the second person in the state, not even excepting the princes of the blood-royal. In the latter end of the late king's reign, this unprincipled infidel proceeded with a force towards a famous temple near Adony, where he attacked the inhabitants, laid waste the country, and sacked it of its idols, made of gold and silver, and studded with rubies. He levied also four lacks of hoons (160,000l.) from the inhabitants. At sight of the idols the King ^444a was taken seriously ill, and

never recovered. He died on Thursday the 21st of Rubbee-oos-Sany, A. H. 988, in the thirty-first year of his reign, and fifty-first of his age, and was buried in the Lungur gardens.

Ibrahim Kootb Shah had thirty children, of whom six sons and thirteen daughters arrived at the age of maturity.

The eldest son, Abdool Kadur, entitled Shah Sahib, was confined in the fort of Dewurconda, where he died in his twenty-first year, and was buried in the Lungur gardens at Golconda.

The second son, Mirza Hoossein Koolly, was drowned while bathing in the Namumpilly tank, at the age of twenty-six, in the year 994; but his body was found, and buried in the Lungur gardens at Golconda.

The third son was Mahomed Koolly, who succeeded his father on his throne.

The fourth son was Mirza Abdool Futteh. He was thirteen years of age at his father's death, and died in his twenty-eighth year, in a fit, A. H. 1003.

The fifth son was Mirza Mahomed Khooda-bunda, full-brother to Mahomed Koolly. He was famed for his bravery; but in the year 1018 he engaged in a plot to dethrone his elder brother, and being confined in the fort of Golconda, died, A. H. 1020, in the thirtieth year of his age.

The sixth son was Mirza Mahomed Ameen. He was the youngest child of his father, and died a natural death, A. H. 1004, in the twenty-fifth year of his age.

It is not related in any history that the army of this prince was defeated while he commanded in person. In the camp he was attended by learned men, whom he used to consult on points of law; and such was the vigilance of his authority and the excellence of his police administration, that an old woman might pass with a tray of gold on her head from Golconda to Bengal, to Beejapoor, or to Ahmudnuggur, without fear of molestation; a circumstance the more to be wondered at, when we consider the dexterity and the boldness of the robbers of Tulingana. Of the conquests achieved in this reign the principal are those of Cossimcota, Rajmundry, and Condbeer. Among the many edifices erected for the purposes of charity, for public offices, for royal residences, or for general utility, the following are the most conspicuous: — The fortifications around the hill of Golconda; the Ibrahim Gardens; the Goolshun, or Flower Garden; the Lungur, or Alms-house, dedicated to the twelve Imams; the Tank at Ibrahimputtun; the Tank called Hoossein Sagur; the Dam at Bood-wul, and the Kala Chubootra, or Black Terrace at Golconda, besides numerous mosques and colleges which were erected under his direction. During the just reign of Ibrahim Kootb Shah, Tulingana, like Egypt, became the mart of the whole world. Merchants from Toorkistan, Arabia, and Persia, resorted to it; and they met with such encouragement that they found in it inducements to return frequently. The greatest luxuries from foreign parts daily abounded at this king's hospitable board; and praise be to God that the virtuous habits of this illustrious house still increase; and may they continue to do so till the end of time!