Historical Battles in Ancient & Medieval Bharat

[jambudvipa]

No problems will send mail at the your email address.

[ramana]

Would first start with founding of the Maratha kingdom and its ideals. Why Peshwas came to be prime movers?
Why was Shah Alam not replaced?
Third battle of Panipat?
Why and what were its after effects?
Describe the rise of EIC
How that led to 1857?
What were the ideals and how was it suppressed?
the rise of a modern India from the ashes
Gandhiji's role leading to 1947.

Again note his location.

Show the continuity in thought and action from Shivaji's time to modern India.

Compare to Europe: Treaty Of Westphaila to creation of European Union.

In the preface can start with the Khilji invasion of Dakshin Bharat and how it fractured the earlier kingdoms and the reaction to it in rise of Vijaynagar and how it was after Talikota(1565) that local Hindu chieftians joined Bahmani Kingdom successor states like Bijapur and got leadership roles.

[paragtope]

Some aspects are directly addressed in ORL. See my comments below.

Would first start with founding of the Maratha kingdom and its ideals.
Why was Shah Alam not replaced?
Describe the rise of EIC
Gandhiji's role leading to 1947.
Show the continuity in thought and action from Shivaji's time to modern India.
Compare to Europe: Treaty Of Westphaila to creation of European Union.
What were the ideals and how was it suppressed?

The above points are directly addressed in ORL.

Why Peshwas came to be prime movers?
Third battle of Panipat?
Why and what were its after effects?
How that led to 1857?

The above are not addressed in ORL. Some intentionally - as per my comments:

Peshwas Most volumes of Maratha history present an obsession with the Pune/Satara rivarly that is falsely extended to 1857 and then to the modern Maratha/Brahmin caste narrative. Most of it either flawed, false, malicious or irrelevant. I do not see real value in looking at the Peshwa's as a distinct subject.

Third Battle of Panipat In the War between the West-Asians invaders and the Marathas, the Marathas had the final victory. The west-asian invasions stopped completely and Delhi came directly in the rule of the Marathas. No west-asian ever came back to India after Panipat. If anyone is going to study Panipat - I would urge them to study this major gap in the historical narrative.

[paragtope]

I have written a blog article on similar topic.. Parag tope ji, can you please drop an email on atri(dot)brf at gmail (dot) com? ppt would be easier to disseminate..

will do...

my email address if anyone needs it is paragtope at gmail dot com

[Murugan]

A detailed page on effect of Panipat on Abdalis and afghan invaders may also be included.

****

Tilak's and Savarkar's contribution is also being forgotten. (Also Subhash babu's).

The history freedom struggle is gandhi centric and new generation believes that there was only one freedom fighter called Gandhiji they dont know muc about others'.

[Atri]

This can be the the outline of the presentation which we are trying to make. This is can transform into a detailed book as well, if the ppt goes out well.

The beginning should be the "tendency" of power centres from Krishna-Godavari basin to interfere in politics of Ganga valley (and sometimes Sindhu valley too) when the north was in disarray. While all the "pre-Maratha" adventures of deccan were totally Dharmic and hence secular, during Maratha resurgence there was religious angle to it as well.

The invasions of Khilji and Malik Kafur.

the rise of Vijaynagar its effect on Indic sustenance.

the fall of vijaynagar and its effect on local satraps of Deccan.

The tourism of child Shivaji (age 8-9) to the ruins of Vijaynagar, and effect of that sanskara.

The help of "Singing saints" to Shivaji to propagate the idea of Swaraajya and Swadharma. This factor was ignored by Peshwas.
27 year war, and condition of India and globe then.

Crossing of Narmada in 1703 by Marathas and pact of Aurangzeb-Shahu which initiated the Mughal-Maratha friendship against Pathan Lobby of North.

Rise of Muslim Mullahs who sensed the potential loss of power and raised the bogey of "Islam in danger" (like Sirhindi, Shah wali and others).

Culmination of this pact into liberation of Punjab in 1750s.

Panipat in 1761 which resulted in final defeat of Pathan Lobby once and for all.

effect of Panipat on Abdalis and afghan invaders

The Rise of "Sikh" in the mean while to carry forward the Dharmic flag over the frontiers.

The re formation of India as nation and "India for Indians" policy of Peshwas.

The trajectory which India "would have followed" if there were no british interference.

The comparison of that trajectory with actual trajectory which India did follow owing to english intervention. Once this comparison is made, the 1857 emerges as the watermark event which Paragji has explained so beautifully in his book.

The subsequent "fracture" in the upper GV elite and beginning of rise of lower GV (Bengal).

This is followed by rise of Deccan (MH) and Punjab.

The state of movement while Lal-Bal-Pal were the triumvirate spearheading the campaign.

The rise of dormant "pathan lobby" and modern day Sirhindis and ShahWaliullahs (ML, Iqbal, Jinnah, maulana mohd ali and shaukat ali biraders).

(there are certain pointers in future gdf dhaga by vilayat which may be useful if he decides to elaborate them either in public OR in private).

The engineering of independence and partition (as described in Shadow of great game) by british.

Partition and midwifery of "Three and half fathers" to create and sustain Pakistan.

[Lalmohan]

panipat III should be seen in the same light as say borodino (napoleon in russia 1812)
the battle was hugely costly in blood for both sides, fought over a wide area, and though napoleon may have had the edge on the field, he was forced strategically to withdraw from russia - losing most of his grande armee en route in bitter winter conditions and as the russians (cossacks in particular) harrassed the retreating columns

[Sri]

From past few months I have been reading records of Lord Wellington's campaign in India. Through sheer luck I managed to get hold of Regimental records of the Lord's Regiment (33rd Foot) and also a synopsis by one Major Burton (94th Russell's Infantry) who has done a comprehensive study of good Lord's campaign in Deccan. This is a treasure of information. I aim to bring to your notice various aspects of British strategy in Campaign of India and discuss in details as to how really the EIC actually seized the control of various sultanates and their long drawn campaign against the Maratha Confederacy.

The records and the book actually start around 1797 when Tipu Sultan was the main opposition to the British dominance in Deccan. So much so that; major expeditionary force which was sent to Malay was called back to deal with the Sultan. I need to add when the force was called back our Lord Wellington then Col Wellesley was in Penang preparing for the show down with the 'natives'.

British action against Tipu seems to stem around there fear of French influence in India. They already had doubts about the Nizam of Hyderabad who on paper was their ally, but maintained a large force of French Mercenaries (Major puts the figure of around 14000 with 124 officers). British were concerned that in long run French influence in court of Nizam will grow. Alarm bells rang when Tipu sent an appeal to the French Ambassador to Mauritius for help against the British. Upon receiving the invitation the Ambassador called for a volunteer force to be dispatched to help Tipu. And help did arrive exact numbers are not available, but the British were certain that more French help is on it's way. Adding to the fire was some correspondence intercepted by British between the french landing at Sirrangnapatna and the French in Hyderabad. Further, British were alarmed by Napoleon's announcement that 'le France' will be a 'mistress of India' like it is of Egypt’

I must add that till this point I don't think the British were much concerned about the Marathas. One thing that strikes me again and again during my reading of the accounts that British always considered the Marathas as one Confederacy. They always seem to believe that Marathas work in tandem with each other. This is strange because a lot of Peshwas were willing allies of the British. This leads me to believe that British considered the Maratha as a homogeneous group not withstanding their loyalties towards the Company; British strategists believed that in Long run all Maratha rulers will be reluctant to fight each other on behest of the British.

Also there are various aspects of how the British actually operated their forces in India and how they actually prepared for the campaigns. Tidbits about the logistics of the British Army are also very interesting.

Is this the right thread though?

[Sri]

panipat III should be seen in the same light as say borodino (napoleon in russia 1812)
the battle was hugely costly in blood for both sides, fought over a wide area, and though napoleon may have had the edge on the field, he was forced strategically to withdraw from russia - losing most of his grande armee en route in bitter winter conditions and as the russians (cossacks in particular) harrassed the retreating columns

He once said, if only for more brandy and blankets....

[tsarkar]

There is another aspect to the Battle of Panipat in 1761
• In 1728, Baji Rao 1 defeated the Nizam at the Battle of Palkhed. The Nizam was also the chief military bulwark of the Mughal emperor Muhammed Shah in the earlier part of his regime.
• In 1737, Baji Rao 1 defeated Muhammed Shah in battle of Ahmedabad, Bhopal and finally Delhi.
• In 1739, the Battle of Karnal was fought wherein Muhammad Shah was defeated by Nadir Shah. Abdali commanded a cavalry contingent for Nadir Shah in this battle. It is not known why the Marathas & Baji Rao 1 did not participate, since Muhammad Shah was a protectorate of Baji Rao 1.
• In 1740, Baji Rao 1 died and Balaji Baji Rao takes leadership of the Marathas.
• In 1748, Abdali attacks for the first time and is defeated by the forces by Muhammad Shah
• In 1752, his brother Raghunath Rao kicks Abdali’s son, Timur Shah, from Delhi.
• In 1758, Raghunath Rao and Malhar Rao Holkar capture Lahore from the Abdalis

Based on the previous Abdali defeats on 1748 and 1752, as well as Maratha hold on Delhi since 1737, I speculate the Marathas in 1761 had some degree of overconfidence similar to what Prithviraj Chauhan had after the first battle of Tarain.

Sadashivrao was the son of Chimaji Apte, who was an important part of Baji Rao 1’s victories, Vishwasrao was the grandson of Baji Rao 1 and Shamsher Bahadur was Baji Rao’s son through Mastani. They probably believed in the previous generation’s victories, and might have been overconfident. Raghunath Rao’s lack of participation did not help, either. And Malhar Rao Holkar had advised guerilla warfare.

Another point, the guerilla warfare suitable at Panipat was not conventional guerilla warfare as we know it, but a modified one based on the force in being concept. The concept is explained here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fleet_in_being

This was successfully used by Fabius Cunctator against Hannibal in Rome after Canii, the Russians against Napoleon and Hitler, Wellington against Napoleon, and ironically, Baji Rao 1 against Nizam at Palkhed and Sikhs against Abdali in 1764 and 1766. The Sikh successes of 1764 and 1766 make it clear that Panipat, like Canii, though a significant defeat, did not dent the national identity, and the nation sprung back.

[ramana]

Thanks Sri and tsarkar.

One thing odd in history as it was taught was as if the Panipat was grand defeat and Maratha power broke after that. What we are learning is it got transformed.

Sri, What are the names of the books?

Atri, Good summary. Could lead to a couple of presentations.

A trip to Hampi will clear up any delusions. The incomplete temple of Ugra Nrasimha is a sad reminder of the glory that wasn't to continue.

[svinayak]

British action against Tipu seems to stem around there fear of French influence in India. They already had doubts about the Nizam of Hyderabad who on paper was their ally, but maintained a large force of French Mercenaries (Major puts the figure of around 14000 with 124 officers). British were concerned that in long run French influence in court of Nizam will grow. Alarm bells rang when Tipu sent an appeal to the French Ambassador to Mauritius for help against the British. Upon receiving the invitation the Ambassador called for a volunteer force to be dispatched to help Tipu. And help did arrive exact numbers are not available, but the British were certain that more French help is on it's way. Adding to the fire was some correspondence intercepted by British between the french landing at Sirrangnapatna and the French in Hyderabad. Further, British were alarmed by Napoleon's announcement that 'le France' will be a 'mistress of India' like it is of Egypt’

Is this the right thread though?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/French_India

French ambition clashed with the British interests in India and a period of military skirmishes and political intrigues began. Under the command of the Marquis de Bussy-Castelnau, Dupleix's army successfully controlled the area between Hyderabad and Cape Comorin. But then Robert Clive arrived in India in 1744, a dare-devil British officer who dashed the hopes of Dupleix to create a French Colonial India.
After a defeat and failed peace talks, Dupleix was recalled to France in 1754. In spite of a treaty between the British and French not to interfere in local politics, the intrigues continued. For example, in this period the French were also expanding their influence at the court of the Nawab of Bengal, and expanding their trade volume in Bengal. In 1756, the French encouraged the Nawab (Siraj ud-Daulah) to attack and conquer the British Fort William in Calcutta. This led to the Battle of Plassey in 1757 where the British decisively defeated the Nawab and his French allies, and extended British power over the entire province of Bengal.

Subsequently France sent Lally-Tollendal to regain the French losses and chase the British out of India. Lally arrived in Pondichéry in 1758, had some initial success and razed Fort St. David in Cuddalore District to the ground in 1758, but strategic mistakes by Lally led to the loss of the Hyderabad region, the Battle of Wandiwash, and the siege of Pondicherry in 1760. In 1761 Pondichéry was razed to the ground by the British in revenge and lay in ruins for four years. The French had lost their hold now in South India too.

One gora today was asking about Indian history books written by Indians. I convinced him that whatever he learnt about India is a British version of the history and is tainted. He was comparing with Chinese civilization.

He is now wants to read Indian history. Can somebody suggest some good books for gora people

[ramana]

In Andhra especially Vizag area they scare troublesome little children saying "Buchi will come and take you away!!"
Buchi is Bussy who was a mass murderer and terrorised the region.

[manju]

RajP Post subject: Posted: 03 Jun 2007 10:24 pm

Posts: 2 Detailed Rajput History and Battles

http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/

I am not sure how missed this dhaga. I am starting from circa 2007 now!

I found the above link very interesting... RajP bhai danyavad for this link!

[Yagnasri]

For some one likes entertainment - History Channel has a TV Computer simulations based TV programme featuring a Rajput warrior and a Raman Centurian and in a simulated 100 combats Rajput won 615 out of 1000 which is too bid advantage.

One of thw weapon which surpriced me is the chakram and otherthings the weapon masters are also sikhs and their marshal skills are worth seeing.

[ParGha]

NR: A Roman Centurion = A Modern IA Subedar. Would you ever try to make a comparison between a JCO and a "Rajput"? Yes, it is just that silly and inappropriate for a serious discussion. Take it to nukkad if you wish to do it for kicks anyways.

[ramana]

Has any one read Marathi scholar
Panipat 1761, by Sejwalkar?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tryambak_S ... Shejwalkar

and this blog

LINK

[Atri]

I possess a personal copy of that book.. It (along with Sardesai's riyasat) remains one of the most "Prophetic" books on India's history and future..

[Sri]

Atri Ji,

Does the book cover the whole EIC part too? As mentioned above I have wor records from british side of things, would be interesting to merge them with Indian prospective and see what really happened.

[Atri]

Panipat-1761 deals only with the battle and everything associated with it. Yes, Shejwalkar explains in brief how EIC got stronghold in Bengal as a result of this battle.. But not much..

Regarding Riyasat, well it comes in three parts.. Part 1 - Musalmaani Riyasat (2 volumes). Part 2 - Marathi Riyasat - 8 volumes. Part 3 British Riyasat - 2 volumes. The British riyasat part deals with period 1818 onwards. The ascent of EIC in India during descent or Marathas is described in Marathi Riyasat volume 7 and 8.

[tsarkar]

One question remains un-answered. As I've mentioned earlier, in 1748, Abdali attacks for the first time and is defeated by the forces by Muhammad Shah, however comes back in 1749 and the Mughals capitulate. In 1752, Raghunath Rao kicks Abdali’s son, Timur Shah, from Delhi. In 1758, Raghunath Rao captures Lahore and in 1760 Raghunath Rao captures Attock from Abdali. This is the western-most expansion of the Maratha confederacy.

From what I come to realize, Sadashivrao was an administrator rather than a general. Raghunath Rao had close to 8 years experience fighting the Afghans. Would it have made a difference if he led the campaign?

[Atri]

many people say so. IMO, Bhau was more imaginative than Raghoba. When Bhau went north, he went there to colonize north and stay there permanently, establishing a kingdom. This is something Raghoba could never do. He brought the loan of 35 lakhs when he returned from Punjab. In spite of the tough conditions, Bhau did not ask for money. One requires an administrator for colonization.

THe word colonization is used in positive sense here.

[tsarkar]

I speculate Balaji Baji Rao, though morally justified, did a strategic blunder of mis-managing Raghunath Rao.

Generals need to be effectively used for wars, like the Rashidun Caliphs used Khalid Bin Walid. Khalid Bin Walid never set exemplary standards in personal life, like killing Malik ibn Nuwaira & marrying his widow Laila the same night.

Similarly, Raghunath Rao, for all his faults, could have been better employed. In hindsight, Raghunath Rao kept busy at Lahore, Attock or Kabul was a much better option than Raghunath Rao kept idle in Pune As they say, idle brain...

[Atri]

Raghunathrao was asked to stay put in Punjab by Mughals, Sikhs and Jats. The Sikhs helped Marathas along with Mughals in their Punjab campaign of 1757-58. But after Marathas conquered attock and were looting peshawar, the tenuous Sikh-Mughal collaboration broke and they started fighting. The only reason Marathas went in Punjab was assurance of Adina Beg regarding maintenance of supply column from Gangetic vallley. Adina Beg died of gastric infection while fighting against Sikhs and Maratha army decided to return. They placed 20,000 cavalry contingent of Sabaji Bhosle in Pindi region, but bulk returned home. This was decision of Raghoba. This was altogether an unknown place for them. They had no prior experience of Sikhs before, Mughals on the other hand were "known" to them.

Yes, Raghoba could have been managed in better way. His ambition led to the undoing of Maratha movement later. This is one of the mistakes of nanasaheb. his another mistake was relying too much on his generals and spending much less time with his troops while comfortably sitting in pune, unlike his father. Nanasaheb was an armchair statesman. His biggest mistake was destruction of Maratha navy under Kanhoji Angre by collaborating with British. This decision was the gravest mistake made by Balajirao peshwa similar to blunder of kashmir by nehru with equally lasting implications.

This decision (of venturing into punjab) is shrouded with mystery of many layers. What caused Raghunathrao to return ignoring the advice of Mughals, Sikhs (well, they were not powerful then) is not completely known. Sudden death of Adina Beg is one of the main reasons why they came back abruptly. But there has to be more to it which I do not know of.

[ramana]

Manohar Malgoankar had written a novelized version of Kanoji Angre's life called "Sea Hawk".

[Sri]

Sri, What are the names of the books?

Ramana Sir, The name of the book is 'Wellington's Campaigns in India' published by Lancer's Publishers .. US.

ISBN: 0-9796174-6-4 978-0-9796174-6-1

And the war records are war records, not published as a book.

[Sri]

Fall of Tipu Sultan (of what I have read in Lord Wellington's record and War records of his regiment).

First thing that struck me is the resources the British employed to deal with Tipu Sultan (TS).

There were 2 Armies dispatched. One Carnatic ; One Bombay.

Carnatic Army Started from Vellore on 11th feb 1799 and it was formidable almost 76000 men. Then they were joined by Nizam's cavalry at Kelmangalam.

Another smaller detachment reached Srirangapatnam via Karur , Erode route.

On the other hand another 70000 men of Bombay Army camped in Coorg.

Tipu tried to deal with the Bombay Army first and attacked the advance Guard at Sidesvara jungles. According to British there was no hope they could have won as thier advance guard had only 2000 soldiers and Tipu attacked with 11000. But General Stuart had anticipated the move and had sent reinforcements even before Tipu attacked. Hence once the reinforcements reached the tide changed. According to British they killed or wounded 1500. They out their own casualties at 31 killed, 93 wounded and 16 missing.

Here I have read accounts of Tipu too. This is what he says
"On Wednesday the victorious Army of the Sultan, having left thier baggage at Periapatam and formed theselves into 3 units, entered the forest of Coorg by 3 diffrent roads, where the Army of Christians had taken position, and advancing, gave battle, fighting with Firlocks and spears, and the whole army of infidels was routed, some chritians taking to flight."

I am inclined to believe the British account because soon after that Tipu went back to Sriranpatanam and he decided not to attack the main body of Bombay Main force. May be because Tipu knew about the advancing Carnatic Armies? But then it is highly unlikely as Tipu did virtually nothing to stop or slow down the advance of Carnatic Army which reached Srirangnapatnam via Anikal, Talghatpuram and kankaneli virtually unopposed.

War diary say " On the 14th the Army encamped near bangalore and on 16th moved forward by Talghatpuram and kankeli route by which maybe Tipu had not expected them. The March was unopposed, while supplies were plentiful as these were not destroyed by the kankaneli route, as may be the case elsewhere."

Could that be possible that Tipu Sultan completely missed 76000 soldiers roaming about in his territory?

Anyways now compiling details of actual siege of Srirangnapatnam. Will post in sometime.

[manju]

About the first no, and about the second, these articles on the Maratha princely states established in Central India span the post-Shivaji times and lead up to Indian Independence.

Gwalior
Gwalior-II

Indore
Indore-II

Airavat, these links helped me link the history from Mughal....Marahta.... schindia/holkar.... to...BRITISH.. and then to current times..

[ramana]

So what did you understand? Even small para is good.

[manju]

I was pleasently surprise to read about the Kamipili kingdom which rules over a small area near Hampi... just before HAKKA and Bukka established Vijayanagar Empire.

This is a small town now close to Tungabhadra river. It is about 20 kms from Hampi. I doubt anyone one in that town knows this history. I have many relatives there and visit the town often and had never heard of this history.

I think every town in India has such rich history... !

I wish there be a statue in the main squre of this town for those Kampili kings.. My guess is that as the economy grows and people have resources to spare and some one retraces the town's history then small towns will see memorial raised for the local heroes. These could be theme parks, musems, statues, schoools named after them etc etc..

[manju]

Question?

The peshwas were Brahmanas, is that right?

[manju]

Hope all of you liked this post. I once again thank Mr Kedar for having given his consent to post this here.

Naryana Roa'garu.. thanks for these posts.. As I was reading thru a thought occurred that this should be made into a History channel like series..
Since not many battles/wars are Not shown on main stream india media .. the public is probably not already fed the leftist historians version of events.. I was wondering if it was

- Possible to do a series on these wars using digital technology.. with maps and multimedia presentation .. have it translated into Indian languages.. and use the youtube to disseminate..

- After watching the Hannibal episode on History channel the conclusion (to my inexperienced mind) was that it is not very expensive to make these episodes..

Any thoughts on this idea?

I am open to making any moola contribution (modest though) amd my time for any translation in kannada..

[SriKumar]

these articles on the Maratha princely states established in Central India span the post-Shivaji times and lead up to Indian Independence.
Indore [/url]

I was recently reading about the history of Rani Ahilya bai Holkar of Indore/Maheshwar. It is quite a story.... she ought be, IMHO, recognized as a national heroine of the highest order. She ruled Malwa from 1767 until her death in 1795. That's 28 years!......male kings dont last that long. Per wiki, the area of Malwa (same Malwa?) is 80,000 sq. km., that's almost 2/3rds the area of England (not UK)...no small piece of territory here. 28 years is a really long period for political stability. Is there any comparable queen in the history of India?

During this period, she spent a lot of money on public works ......she built many roads/dharamshalas/temples. If you look at her temple construction and related patronage, she had a pan-India vision and sense of unity: she constructed temples as far north as Badrinath, as far south as Rameshwaram island, east upto Puri and west upto Dwarka and Somnath (Gujrat). The rest of the list within these boundaries is equally impressive: Kasi Vishwanath, Ayohdhya..etc. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ahilyabai_ ... hout_India

Her longevity as a ruler is very intriguing, perhaps the protection of the Peshwas helped. I am sure she would have faced internal fights for the throne, but am curious as to whether she had to fight off outside attacks as well (like Rani Laxmibai and Rani Chennamma). The fact that the Mughals had declined and the Brits were not quite ascendant yet would have helped. If anyone has any good links on her life/her writings, please do post.

[jambudvipa]

Gangadevi the daughter-in-law of Bukka rayya and Kakatiya princess wrote "Madhurvijayam" or "Kampliraya Vijayam" chronicling her husband's (Kampili Raya) victory over the Madurai Sultanate.

Ramana garu,Gangamba's husband was Kumara Kampana (Bukkaraya's son).

The Kampiliraya Manju is referring to attained veeragati fighting Mohammed Tughlaq's forces in 1327-28 CE and was the ruler of Kampili ( which included the area near the ruins of Hampi).

I was pleasently surprise to read about the Kamipili kingdom which rules over a small area near Hampi... just before HAKKA and Bukka established Vijayanagar Empire.

This is a small town now close to Tungabhadra river. It is about 20 kms from Hampi. I doubt anyone one in that town knows this history. I have many relatives there and visit the town often and had never heard of this history.

I think every town in India has such rich history... !

I wish there be a statue in the main squre of this town for those Kampili kings.. My guess is that as the economy grows and people have resources to spare and some one retraces the town's history then small towns will see memorial raised for the local heroes. These could be theme parks, musems, statues, schoools named after them etc etc..

Manju, you are absoulutely right about the supreme valour of the Kampili kings.As you can read Kannada,there is a work in Kannada called "Ramanatha Kathe",which deals with the courage of Ramanatha (who was the son of Kampiliraya).If you can translate it into Englisg/Hindi it will be a great service to our history.

I am posting extracts from one of my blog posts which has some detials on Kampiliraya's valour.

The full post is here: http://jambudveep.wordpress.com/2010/10 ... chapter-5/

The Kampili wars

Kampili was a small but powerful kingdom founded by Mummadi Singeya from the fragments of the disintegrating Devagiri kingdom. Kampilideva succeeded Mummadi Singeya in 1313 CE. Please see the map for a rough idea of the kingdom of Kampili. It was tiny compared to the Delhi sultanate, but it punched well above its weight. It took three well equipped invasions before Kampili faded into the night.

Kampilideva is one of those unacknowledged heroes of our history who fought tooth and nail against the Muslim invaders. A staunch defender of dharma, he fought with even those Hindu chiefs who paid tribute to the Delhi sultans. Kampilideva fought many battles with bigger kingdoms such as Dvarasamudram and Warangal.

Mohammed Tughlaq decided to put an end to Kampili before it became the focal point of resurgent Hindu power in the Deccan. An ideal pretext for invasion was found in Baha-ud-din Garhasp’s rebellion. Baha-ud-din was a cousin of Mohammed Tughlaq and had been made governor of the Sagar town (Karnataka) by Ghiyath-al-din Tughlaq .A brave warrior; he had fought with distinction against the Mongols in 1324 CE.

Baha-ud-din was disaffected with his treatment by Mohammed Tughlaq and rebelled in order to carve a separate kingdom for himself. All this while, he had been careful to cultivate excellent relations with Kampilideva. In 1327 CE, a pitched battle between the Delhi sultanates army and Baha-ud-din took place on the banks of the Godavari River in Karnataka. Garhasp was defeated and fled with his family to Kampilideva for protection.

Like on previous occasions in our history, the flight of a fugitive to the protection of a Hindu state was enough excuse for the Muslim sultans to attack the Hindu kingdoms. In Kampili’s case the excuse came in the form of Baha-ud-din Garhasp.

The outstanding moral character of Kampilideva is clearly demonstrated in the assurance of safety which he gave to Garhasp, “Now so long as the pulse moves in my body, I won’t take in a breath except in friendship to you. I swear by the sun, the sacred thread (I wear) and the idols (I worship) that you shall find me faithful. If all (the people of the world) were to join together to take your life, they cannot cause you as much injury as a grain of barley.”

I have taken the descriptions of the three invasions straight from N Venkataramanayya’s book. Apologies if it sounds ad verbatim, as for most part it is.

First Invasion of Kampili

The first invasion of Kampili took place shortly after Garhasp’s rebellion in 1327 CE. Malik Zada aided by Malik Rukn- ud- din crossed the Krishna and mounted an attack on Kummata, which was the chief fortress of Kampilideva. At this time, Kampilideva was in his capital Hosdurg (Anegondi). Kampilideva sent a strong force headed by his minister Baicappa, his sons Ramanatha and Katanna, and Garhasp to reinforce Kummata.

On arrival Rukn- ud- din pitched his tents around the fort. Katanna conducted a surprise sally from the fort on the first day of the siege, inflicting heavy losses on the Muslims and capturing two thousand horses in the process. The next day the Muslims tried to storm the fort but were decisively beaten back by Ramanatha and Katanna. The Muslim army was completely routed and Rukn-ud- din forced to retreat back to Devagiri.

Thus ended the first invasion of Kampili; a complete failure for the world conquering armies of Islam.

Second invasion of Kampili

Incensed by the failure of the “mighty” armies of Islam to subdue the small kingdom of Kampili, Mohammed Tughlaq promptly despatched another well equipped invasion force under Malik Qutb-ul-Mulk. The Muslims moved as before to attack Kummata.

Kampilideva was well prepared to meet the second invasion as well. Both the forts of Kummata and Hosdurg were strengthened. This time Kampilideva himself led the defence of Kummata against the Muslims.

On the night of first day of the siege a surprise night attack by a band of Kampili warriors threw the Muslim camp into confusion. On the second day Qutb-ul-Mulk attacked the fort with all his forces from three sides. They managed to take the outer wall, but were pushed out by the vigorous defenders led by Kampilideva.

On the third day of the siege Kampilideva arranged his troops in battle order outside the fort gates. Facing him was the Muslim army with their Turkish horse archers in the centre, cavalry to the right and elephants to the left. Ramanatha attacked the Turkish centre first throwing them into disarray. As they desperately tried to flee from the attack, they caused confusion in the cavalry and elephants stationed on their sides. Ramanatha charged the Muslim forces cutting most of them down and killing their top commanders. Qutb-ul-Mulk saved himself by escaping from the battlefield.


Final Invasion of Kampili

Within a short time Mohammed Tughlaq despatched an even larger force under his minister Malik Zada. There seems to have been a drought during this time in Kampili, as the Portuguese historian Nunes says that the Muslims had to wait for the rainy season before they could proceed further. This would perhaps explain why the two strong forts: Kummata and Hosdurg ran out of provisions relatively quickly.

The Muslims laid siege to Kummata first. Although Kampilideva and Garhasp sallied forth and assaulted the Muslims, they were defeated and forced to pull back inside the fort. Conditions inside Kummata got dire as the Hindus began to run out of provisions.

The Muslims stormed the fort in an all out assault forcing Kampilideva to abandon Kummata and seek shelter in his capital Hosdurg. Kampilideva relocated the fifty thousand citizens of Hosdurg to other places in Kampila, only keeping five thousand soldiers for the defence of Hosdurg.

Hot on Kampilideva’s trail, Malik Zada laid siege to Hosdurg. After one month the situation inside the fort got dire. The situation got even more precarious when the Muslims stormed their way into the fort.

Kampilideva realised all was lost, but this great man first made sure his friend Garhasp escaped with his family to the Hoysala kingdom of Dvarasamudra, which was ruled by Veera Ballala III. Garhasp escaped with his family to Dvarasamudra.(Garhasp seems to have been quite an accomplished warrior, as he is described tying three-four horses together, putting his family on them and riding out of Kummata, only turning back to cut down his pursuers).

I am quoting this passage written by Ibn Battuta about the last hours of this great sovereign. It is extremely stirring to read, “Then he (Kampilideva) commanded a great fire to be prepared and lighted. Then he burned his furniture, and said to his wives and daughters, “I am going to die, and such of you as prefer it, do the same.” Then it was seen that each one of these women washed herself, rubbed her body with sandal-wood, kissed the ground before the ráí(Raya) of Kambíla (Kampila), and threw herself upon the pile. All perished. The wives of his nobles, ministers, and chief men imitated them, and other women also did the same.

The ráí, in his turn, washed, rubbed himself with sandal, and took his arms, but did not put on his breastplate. Those of his men who resolved to die with him followed his example. They sallied forth to meet the troops of the Sultán, and fought till every one of them fell dead.” (Batuta).

As can be seen from the above passage the ladies of Kampila performed “jauhar” to save their honour. Ibn Batuta heard about this incident from a trusted source, but he was an eye witness to another incident wherein the Hindu ladies burnt themselves on their husband’s pyre. Ibn Batuta clearly describes their fearlessness and devotion to their husbands in the face of the raging flames.

Kampilideva fought extremely bravely in battle before falling dead of his many wounds. Malik Zada had his head stuffed and sent to Mohammed Tughlaq as a gift. The Muslims conducted a general massacre of the remaining residents of Hosdurg. Those who survived like the eleven sons of Kampilideva; were converted to Islam.

Thus was the end of the kingdom of Kampili, but the lowest ebb for the Southern Hindus was yet to come.

What of Baha-ud-din Garhasp? Veera Ballala III was unwilling to take the risk of inviting a full scale Muslim invasion by sheltering a fugitive. He promptly handed over Garhasp to Malik Zada.

As is illustrated by this passage Garhasp met a terrible end, “ He (Mohammed Tughlaq) ordered the prisoner (Garhasp) to be taken to the women, his relations, and these insulted him and spat upon him. Then he ordered him to be skinned alive, and as his skin was torn off, his flesh was cooked with rice. Some was sent to his children and his wife, and the re­mainder was put into a great dish and given to the elephants to eat, but they would not touch it. The Sultán ordered his skin to be stuffed with straw, and to be placed along with the remains of Bahádur Búra,* and to be exhibited throughout the country”. (Batuta)

[ramana]

I deleted my incorrect post.

[Sri]

Fall of Tipu Sultan from British war records

By 26th March 1799 Gen Haris' Carnatic Army reached Malavelly almost un opposed. In Malavelly though; Tipu made a half hearted attempt to stop the advancing columns of the British Carnatic Army.

War Diary

On approaching Malavelly it was found that the enemy had occupied some ridges, his cavalry on the right and his infantry on the heights beyond the town.

The action that ensued was of a short duration. Supported by some cavalry. Col Wellesley (later Lord Wellington) with his division, advancing in echelon of battalions, made an attack on enemy's right flank, when a column of 2000 men moved forward in excellent order against the 33rd (33rd foot, is good Lord's original regiment); this regiment reserved it's fire with the utmost steadiness but received that of the enemy at a distance of 60 yards, and continuing to advance the hostile column gave way and was thrown into disarray. Meanwhile other British column heading straight into enemy, the enemy gave way at all points. Under Gen Floyd a late charge by cavalry completed the rout with great slaughter.

This is what Wellsely wrote of the battle in his letter to his brother;

advanced and almost stood the charge of the bayonets of the 33rd and his cavalry rode to Gen Bayrd's Europea Brigade. He did not support as he ought, having drawn of his guns at the moment he made his attack and even pushed forward these troops to cover the retreat of his guns. This is the cause of the troops he left behind him and of panic with which we have reason that all his troops are affected.

From the above two accounts it is clear that Tipu didn't want to fight either the Carnatic Army or the Bombay Army. In both cases he withdrew in haste. In the later having opened a front he almost immediately decided to pull back his guns. Without which there was almost no pressure on British columns to move forward. In the end the Tipu columns marched way too close to the British without firing and were slaughtered.

After the Mallavelly confrontation, Tipu more or less withdrew back to Srirangpatanam, hoping to prepare for a solid defence of his fort. British army reached Srirangpatnm unmolested on 2nd April and camped 2 miles away from the fort.

Curious incedent happens here. It seems there was a nullah which ran through one of the villages in the vicinity. The village was abandoned and there was some shrugs and natural vegetation around the nullah and village. From here Tipu’s Rocket men started harassing the British forward lines. Rest from the Regimental Diary:

“ Col Wellesley with 33rd and a battaliaon of Bengal Infantry was ordered to make a night attack on the grove and establish a post there while Col Shawe with another force assaulted the ruined village.”

It is interesting here to quote a letter that Col Welleseley wrote to Gen Harris on 5th April after receiving the orders:

“ I do not know where you mean the post to be established, and I shall therefore be obliged to you if you will do me the favour to meet me this afternoon in front of the lines and show it to me. In the meantime I will order my battalions to be in readiness.

Upon looking at the tope as I came in just now it appeared to me that when you get possession of the bank of the nullah, you have the tope as a matter of course, as the latter is in the rear of the former: however you are the best judge, and I shall be ready.”

Gen Harris never responded.

Anyways the night attack took place and Col Wellseley failed utterly. He was met by a barrage of rockets and Musket fire. He lost his way and his force. He was stuck on knees and found his way back to British lines after wandering for hours. He also lost many men in the adventure. Captured men (12 in total) had there heads chopped by Chettys (according to British a caste that performs feats of strength).

War Diary:

“ The mistake had been in attempting to carry out night attack, without previouslt reconnoitering the ground, which was intersected by canals for irrigation of the betel gardens, and it seems probable, that Col Wellesley would have suffered severely professionally had he been less distinguished personage than the brother of Governor General. Battalion then resolved never to attack at night a post which had not been reconnoitered by day.”

By the day Col Wellesley took the tope without great difficulty and a post was established. On the other hand Col Shae had already taken the village. Hence Tipu’s forward was non existing. Only the fortress was left to b taken. The following is the description of the great fort of Tipu by one Major Beaston in war diary:

“ The island of Serirangapatam is tree and half miles in length and a mile and a half in breadth. It is formed by the rver Cauvery, and rises considerably in the middle, from which there is a gradual slop towards the river. The fortress occupies 2000 yards west of the island. And is a place of grat strength. Covered upo north and west by the river Cauvery, it was defended until peace of 1792 by a single rampart; the east and west faces considered weaker, were strengthened by double walls and ditches, by outworks before the gates, by strong circular works upon south east angle and by several formidable cavalry within, and upon the southern ramparts. Pehaps no place of the same extent of fortifications ever required so much labour in it’s construction. The rampart, which is thick and strong, varies In height from 20 to 35 feet and upwards, the whole of the revetments, except the north-west bastion, is composed of granite, cut in large oblong pieces, laid in cement, transversely in the wall. The western ditch has not been constructed with much less labour: it is formed by a strong mould of wall, of considerable thickness, parallel to the rampart and entirely built on stone.”

British plan was to attack from North West. Batteries were established approach ditches were dug in zig zag fashion, Bombay Army was ready on the other end of the fortress. On 22nd April, Tipu attacked with around 6000 infantry and the French forces he had in the fortress, but they were driven back with a loss of 700 dead or injured. After this Tipu sought to negotiate. But British by now were in no mood. But the war diary says, that Tipu didn’t agree to terms and conditions which involved giving up half his territory and a huge indemnity.

Any ways in the beginning of April the siege batteris started doing the job and a practicable breach was made on 3rd of May and British were all set for assault.

[ramana]

Bhagwan Ghidwani wrote a historical novel about fall of Tippu. Will need ot dust it to do a comparison.

[Sri]

Attack on Tipu’s Fort and Fall of Tipu

War Diary

Before day break on 4th May the Storming Parties were assembled in the trenches. They amounted to 2,494 Europeans and 1882 Native Infantry, under command of Genral Baird, and were divided into 2 parties. The right column under Co Sherbrooke consisted of flank companies of the Scotch brigade, the Regiment de Meuron, the 73rd and 74th Regiments, Eight flank companies of Madras and six of Bombay sepoys and fifty artillery men; who were to attack the southern ramparts. The Left column under Col Dunlop was composed of six European flank companies from the Bombay Army, the 12th and 33rd Regiments, ten flank companies of Bengal Sepoys and fifty artillery men; and was ordered to attack the northern face. Col Wellseley remained in command of the reserves. Each column was headed by a forlorn hope of a sergeant and twelve men, one of the 74th and other of the 77th, followed by two subaltern’s parties commanded by Lt Hills, 74th, and Larence, 77th regiment.

The assault took place not long after midday, and in 6 minutes the breach was won and British flag waved on the ramparts (there is another story attached to this incident that I’ll post later). But on arriving at the top of breach another ditch was discovered full of water; within the outer wall, which appeared impassable. Leading his men along the ramparts however Gen Baird found that some scaffolding had been left by the work men who had been engaged in repairing the wall, and by this means the troops crossed the inner ditch; the two columns joined on the other side of the fort and entered the body of the town. The firing continued until a little after 2 o clock, by which time the whole of the works were in possession of the troops, and the British ensign floated from the flagstaff on the southern cavalier of the fort (Before a flag could be obtained, an English light infantry jacket was hoisted by some men of the 73rd and continued flying insight of the whole army until the regiment came up, and the king’s colour was substituted).

Meanwhile the final scenes of the drama were getting enacted at the covered gateway of the town, where the ‘Tiger of Mysore’ was himself making the last stand. During the earlier part of the assault Tipu remained in his palace, where from time to time he received information of the progress of the fight. At length he was told that British Columns were crossing river and the news was confirmed by the roar of guns and muskets which he heard (Maj Burton say “ like Brunswick fated chieftain at Waterloo, with deaths prophetic ears.). Mounting his horse, he rode proudly forth, never to return, and took position behind a traverse commanding the approaches from the breach, where he fired repeatedly at the British with deadly effect. But he was obliged to retire, accompanied by a few personal attendants, when the storming party entered the body of palace. Fatigued, suffering from intense heat, and pained by an old wound Tipu mounted his horse and retreated slowly along the northern ramparts. The British were momentarily gaining ground, the garrison in every direction flying while a spattering fusillade, and occasionally wild Huzzah, told that visitors were advancing everywhere. Instead of quitting the city as he might have done, The Sultan crossed the bridge over the inner ditch and entered the town. The covered gateway was now crowded with fugitives vainly endeavoring to escape from the British. A random shot struck the Sultan; he pressed his horse forward, but his passage was blocked by the crowd. Approaching British columns started firing at this crowd and now Tipu’s horse was also struck, Tipu’s personal guards managed to disengage him, dragged exhausted beneath the fallen horse and placed him in palanquin. But escape now was impossible; the British had now taken the gateway. Dazzled by glittering of his jeweled turban, a soldier dashed forward and caught Tipu’s sword belt. With failing strength Tipu struck the soldier with his sword. The soldier irritated by pain, drew back, laid his musket to his shoulder, and Shot the great Tipu Sultan. His companions perceiving the struggle, rushed up; the palanquin was over turned, the body of the departed Sultan was thrown into the heap of dead and dying despoiled of everything valuable, left among the fallen Indians, naked, unknown and unregarded.

The body was later discovered by the Col Wellesely and Gen Baird. There was a bullet wound a little above the right temple, the ball lodging in the left check near the mouth, and there were three bayonet wounds in the right side of the body. The corpse was handed over to Mohammedans, who buried him besides Haider Ali, and the evening on which the tomb was closed there was violence, by which 2 officers of the 74th were killed.

No further resistance was experienced, and the town, palace, and the fort were occupied by the British. From interrogation made from one of Tipu’s officers it was found that there were 13739 regular infantry outside the trenches and 8100 inside. Total loss was never ascertained but some 8000 were killed in the final assault. The British lost 22 officers killed and 45 wounded’ 191 European rank and file killed, 622 wounded and 22 missing; 119 natives killed, 420 wounded and 100 missing..

Immense treasure was found in the palace but much was looted by British troops. Col Wllesely was appointed Governor of Serirangapatanam .

[Airavat]

Deccan Herald article on post-Tipu mysore:

In 1799, Lord Wellesley decided that the administration of the region would be bestowed on the Wodeyars instead of Tipu’s sons, keeping in mind the relationship between the French and Tipu. This decision was taken in spite of stiff resistance from the likes of Sir Thomas Munro who wanted to divide the region between the British and the Nizam of Carnatic.

Krishna Raja Wodeyar III, a minor then, was coronated as the king of the entire region; however the British Government appointed a Resident in the court of Mysore. The Mysore that was won back from Tipu was a much bigger and unified kingdom and the control of the region was given to the Wodeyars. So there still were divided loyalties and not all Palegars were loyal to the king. Added to this was the stringent administration of Dewan Purnaiah. There was also no handholding of the young king in the region’s governance; the Resident took his orders from the neighbouring Madras Presidency and did not help or advise the king in the affairs of the region.

In August 1830, there was an uprising of some Palegars, of Nagar and Tarikere. Though the Maharaja was loyal to the British and lent his troops to quell the rebellion, it reached huge proportions. Fears of losing control of the region and added pressure from the Madras Governor, forced the then Governor General, Lord Bentinck, to take the drastic step of transferring governance from the Maharaja to a British Commission that was directly under the Governor General.

[Sri]

^^^ it is true that a 5 year old Hindu was made the Raja of Mysore and he was kept under the guidance of the resident British administrator. Tipu's son's were shifted to Vellore. Where they participated in a mutiny. Accoding to British report the story of the Mutiny at Vellore is thus:

They family of Tipu Sultan which consisted of 4 sons and a few daughters were provided with an establishment of a magnificence more in accordance with their formerstae then their current condition; their qurters in fort resembled a palace and a large number of followers were allowed to migrate to Vellore; while the hunsbands of the princesses came from different parts of the country. In these circumstances it is easy to understand that a nucleus of disaffection was formed, and the Muhammadan sepoys were subject to temptations to rebel against their British officers.

But in November 1805 further cause arose for disaffection among the native ranks of the Madras Army involving the Hindus as well as Mumhammadans. In that month an order was issued for the introduction of new fashiuon of turban, patterns of which were sent to Vellore, as well as other stations between April and june 1806. The Sepoys objected to these head dresses, as they bore resemblance to hats worn by Eurasian drummers, and a rumour spread that this was a measure preparatory to enforce conversion to Christianity.

Nor was this all. An order was shortly afterwards promulgated to the effect that:

‘a native soldier shall not mark his face to denote his caste, or wear ear rings when dressed in his uniform, and it’s further directed that all the parades, and upon all duties, every soldier of the battalion will be clean shaven on the chin. It is also directed that the uniformity shall, as far as practicable, be preserved in regard to quantity and shape of the hair on the upper lip.”

It is not surprising that such inconsiderate orders, prejudicial to the sentiments and religion of both hindus and Musalmans, should cause smouldering discontent already existent to break out into open mutiny. The garrison of vellore in july 1806 consisted of four companies of his Majesties 69th Regiment; three companies of 1st battalion, 1st madras infantry; and 2nd battalion, 23 Madras infantry, the whole under command of Col Fancourt. At Arcot, 16 miles distant, Col Robert Rolo Gillepsie had under his command the 19th Dragoons, and their comrades of Assaye and many other battalefield, the 7th Madras Cavalry, known in those days as the ‘Black Ninteenth’ from rhier close connections with the Dragoons.

War Report quaotes:

Gillipsie was one of the most energetic and bravest officers of his times.Born in Comber County Dwn, on 21st jan 1760, he was appointed Cornet in the 3rd Regiment, Irish horses, On the 25th April 1783. In 1787 at Kidare he fought a duel across a handkerchief with a brother of Sir John barrington, whon he shot dead. In 1792 he was promoted to Lieutenancy in the 20th Light Dragoons, which was raised for service in Jamaica. In the attack on Port au Prince he distinguished himself by swimming across the harbour infested with sharks, with the flag of truce, and sword in mouth under heavy fire from land. During his residence in San Demingo, his house was attacked at night by eight deperados, who murdered his servant, Gillipsie then killed 6 of them with his sword. There are stories o his challenging French officers for duel and killing them at Constantinople. It was fortunate that such a brave officer was at handwhen the mutiny broke.

At Vellore the 69th were quartered in the fort; the sepoys mostly lived in native town outside, providing certain guards within the precincts of the fort, where also arms were kept. Some of the guards were composed of mixed native and British soldiers.

On the night of 10th July 1806 the greater portion of 23rd Madras Infantry was given permission to sleep in the fort, so as to be ready near their arms for a field day which had been ordered for the next morning. At half past 2 in the morning sepoys of the main guard suddenly attacked their British Comrades and murdered all except 4; who managed to escape. At about the same time an attack was made on the barracks of 69th, and continued through out the night. In the meantime eight officers and sergeant alarmed by the firing, met at the house of Lt Ewing, Ist Madras Infantry, who had secured the arms and ammunition of four men on guard at his quarters. After an attack had been repulsed, these officers proceeded to adjoining house of Surgeon Jone, which offered greater facilities for defence. From here seargent Brady went out to reconnoiter and returned in half an hour with the information that the commandant and all eurpean guards had been killed; and Mysore flag had been hoisted. At morning 8 Am the soldiers attacked this house from back, but the officers managed to slip from front. There they found many killed and wounded specially by 2 six pounder guns which were playing at them from close quarters. The men had all but few catridges left but a sally was made by about 200 our of 372 forming the detachment of the 69th; a position was taken up on the bastion, and advance was made along the ramparts towards the main gateway under heavy fire from Palace, by which many officers and men were killed. A party being left to keep the gateway, the remainder drove the sepoys from south east bastionand cavalier, and obtained possession of grand magazine only to find it contained nothing but gunpowder. All the officers by now had fallen leaving Surgeon Jones and Dean, who led the survivors gallantly. The party then returned to the gateway and pulled down the Mysore flag by u route under heavy fire by Sergeant McManus and Orivate Philip of the 69th.

At day break Col Gillepsie rode out on the way to Vellore, where he had an engagement for breakfast with Col Francourt. He was not very far when he was met by a messenger from the fort, who had been dispatched with the news of outbreak from an officer who resided outside the fort. In a very short time Col Gillepsie with a squardern of the 19th under Captain Wilson, and a troop of Madras Cavalry, was thundering along the road to Vellore, leaving order for galloper guns and remainder of the 19th to follow.

The 69th was in jamaice 4 years before, and when the relieving party arrived, Sergeant Brady, who was with the survivors over the gateway exclaimed –“

if Col Gillepsie be alive, God Almighty has sent him from the We4st Indies to save our lives in the East”.

The moment was critical for the survivors, had expanded their last catridge, and the spoys were gathering to destroy them, but, seeing the approach of then troopers, the greater n7umber retired to the further ramparts, leaving he gateway and one bastion to Seg Brady of the 69th. There were four gates, out of which 2 outer ones were open and draw bridge was down. The third gate was opened by the men of the 69th but a lot of men were lost in this operation anf they were unable to open the 4th gate. Col Gillepsie then threw a rope over to the survivors and hurled himself alone into the fort. Seeing him the 69th was motivsted. And they under the command of the Col attacked some sepoys who were crowding the gate. In the mean time galooper Guns arrived with the rest of the 19th and blew open the gate. Rest of the Seopys were either killed or espcaped. Total sepoys killed is pegged at 370. By 10 o clock all was over. The 69 th lost 115 sould and 76 injured. Col Gillepsie was also badly wounded in the action and later died.

The Mysore princes were removed to Calcutta and obnoxious orders were withdrawn.

I will now concentrate on the Maratha Wars...