[7][1] The Hill Rajas were concerned about Gobind Singh's rising power and influence in their region, along with dislike for the Sikh movement.

[8][9] In addition, the Hill Rajas were frustrated by the raids on their villages by the Sikhs from Anandpur who sought to acquire supplies, provisions, and cash.

[23] They were joined by the Hill Rajas consisting of the rulers of Kahlur, Kangra, Jaswan, Mandi, Kullu, Nalagarh, Kaithal, Nurpur, Chamba, Jammu, Busaher, Dhadwa, Darauli, Bijarwal, and Garhwal.

[24] The army of the Guru kept the Mughals and hillmen at bay but being surrounded by heavy odds, took refuge in Anandpur fort, where they were besieged for many months, with all supplies and communications cut off.

[25] A month later Emperor Aurangzeb sent a written assurance by promising on the Quran, whereas Hill Rajas swore by the name of the cow,[26][27] with the safety of all Sikhs if the Guru decided to evacuate the fort, and after a long drawn out siege, Gobind Singh and his followers, facing starvation, capitulated in return for safe passage (particularly Mata Gujri and the Chali Mukte, coinciding Gobind Singh advice to stay),[27] but the Sikhs were treacherously attacked at the Sarsa River, with all assurances and solemn oaths betrayed by the Mughals and Hill Rajas.