Did Alexander the Great almost die in Multan, present day Pakistan?

 The Mallian campaign stands as a striking testament to Alexander the Great's audacious courage, his resilience in the face of danger, and the extent of his military prowess. This campaign was against the Malli clans in the present day Multan. This pivotal episode occurred during his relentless march through the Indian subcontinent, as he sought to expand his empire and establish his dominion over uncharted territories.

In a daring move that would solidify his reputation as a fearless leader, Alexander personally led an assault on the fortified city of the Malli. With unwavering determination and an unparalleled willingness to lead from the front, he entered the city accompanied by only two of his trusted bodyguards. This audacious act would prove fateful, as a Mallian arrow struck Alexander, seriously wounding him. The king's life hung in the balance, and his forces were plunged into a state of shock, believing that their leader had succumbed to his injuries.

Amidst the uncertainty and turmoil that followed, the Macedonian forces, driven by a mix of grief and vengeance, unleashed a brutal assault on the Mallian citadel. Believing their king to be dead, they exacted a devastating retribution upon the Malli who had sought refuge within the walls of the stronghold. The resulting massacre spared no one – man, woman, or child – and the city bore witness to the horrors of war.

However, the course of history was altered by the efforts of Kritodemos of Kos, Alexander's skilled surgeon. Through his medical expertise and dedication, Kritodemos managed to save the life of the wounded king. Alexander's remarkable resilience and the surgeon's skillful interventions ensured that the conqueror would survive this near-fatal encounter.

The Mallian campaign, despite the challenges and losses, ultimately led to the submission of the surviving Malli to Alexander's authority. The relentless progress of his beleaguered army continued, subduing and integrating various Indian tribes into his expanding empire. The campaign, marked by audacity, perseverance, and the highs and lows of war, reinforced Alexander's reputation as a military genius and a leader who would spare no effort to achieve his ambitions.

In the annals of history, the Mallian campaign serves as a vivid reminder of Alexander's unparalleled courage, his indomitable spirit, and the sacrifices that his troops were willing to make to follow him into the unknown. This chapter of his Indian conquest exemplifies the intricate interplay of leadership, strategy, and the human spirit in the pursuit of conquest and legacy.

Aparjeet Nakai