Cunning plan:
Illias Shah decided to conquer Odisha and Shree Jagannath temple. He took advantage of the weak defence system of Narasinghdeva-III at the northern frontier of Odisha. Raibania fort in north Balasore was in charge of protecting Odisha’s northern frontier. But commanders of this fort were bribed by the Bengal sultan. The Muslim invader could get an easy entry into Odisha because of it.
Mayhem:
Narasinghdeva-III knew a battle with the Bengal sultan was inevitable. He sent off his queens and family to Giridurga, a safe place near Simhachalam. All military preparations were made to defend the sovereignty of Utkal. According to historians, in 1340 AD, Puri was suddenly attacked by Illias Shah. Devotees and inhabitants of Puri had to suffer at the hands of inhuman army of the Bengal sultan. Soldiers of Illias Shah killed people ruthlessly. Blood flowed on Badadanda. Odia soldiers found it hard to protect the Shreemandir.
Successfully hidden:
Narasinghadeva-III was in no position to protect his people and Shree Jagannath temple from the wrath of the invading sultan. He decided to save the deities of Shreemandir from getting desecrated by the Muslim ruler by hook or crook. The deities were successfully hidden in a secret place. Soldiers of Illias Shah entered the temple and looted its wealth. But they could not locate the deities. The deities remained unharmed. They were re-established in the temple when Puri became safe again.
