Page 46 - Courage Redifined

King Kumarpal’s timely action :

King Kumarpal did not go to talk and convince the chief
soldiers because he very well knew that if they were bribed
then they would hand him over to the enemy. In that case,
he would have to live an imprisoned and disrespectful life till
his last breath. Instead it would be better to take a chance to
save himself. Thinking on these lines, he immediately ordered
the Mahavat, “Do not worry. Be fearless. Take the elephant
right near Arnoraja’s elephant.”Mahavat did as he was told.
But Arnoraja got alert and ordered a Sinhnad* to be done so
that the elephant would get scared. But intelligent Kumarpal
was a step ahead. He immediately told the Mahavat, “Take
this pachhedi* and insert it in both the elephant’s ears.” The
elephant could not hear the lion roar anymore and ran ahead
in full speed. As soon as he stood near Arnoraja’s elephant,
Kumarpal took a long jump and landed on Arnoraja’s elephant
right beside him. This was beyond Arnoraja’s expectations.
Before he could think or act, Kumarpal was standing right
beside him. He was taken aback. At that very moment,
Kumarpal sat on his chest and removed his sword.

“You rascal! You have been using the word ‘Mundiya’ ? What
do you mean ? What do you now wish ? Should I kill you
right now ?”

Arnoraja realised that death wasn't very far for him. He
immediately begged for forgiveness and said, “I was mistaken.
I am your servant. I request you to free me.”
This turn of events occurred so swiftly that Arnoraja’s army
could not come to protect him. Also, they were astonished
on seeing Emperor Kumarpal’s valour and courage. Where
was the chance to come for protection ? If they would come

*Sinhnad- Lion roar
*Pachhedi- A specific type of stick

36 Courage Redefined