Maratha Empire - Rise, Dynasty, and Influence

The Maratha Empire, or Maratha Confederacy, began with Shivaji’s coronation in 1674 and was recognized as a tributary state by the Mughals in 1707. Led by Peshwa Bajirao I in the 18th century, it expanded under Hindavi Swarajya (self-rule of Hindus). After Aurangzeb’s death in 1707, Shivaji’s grandson Shahu and Peshwa Bajirao revived Maratha’s power, decentralizing authority to families like Scindia, Holkar, Bhonsle, and Gaekwad. However, defeat at Panipat in 1761 marked a setback. By 1818, the British East India Company’s intervention ended Maratha’s dominance in India through the Anglo-Maratha Wars, dismantling the confederacy.

Maratha Empire Overview

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj founded the Maratha Empire in the 17th century and it was the most powerful empire at that time. If you wonder who was the last king of the Maratha Empire then the answer is Baji Rao II. Peshwa Baji Rao II was defeated by the East India Company.

Aspect	Details
Founder	Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Empire Period	1674 to 1818
Capital	Originally, the nodal administrative centers of the entire Maratha Empire were Puna (present-day Pune) and Raigad Fort.
Dynasty	Bhonsle Dynasty
Rular	Shivaji, Sambhaji and Rajaram, Shahu
Extent	Large parts of Central and Western India
Military	Extremely talented and disciplined soldier with guerilla warfare skills.
Battles	The Battles of Palkhed and Panipat
Decline	Reduce Central authority is waning. British intervention and internal conflicts.
Treaty of Bassin	1802 was the year of signature. between the British and the Marathas to form a supplementary alliance.
End of Empire	Anglo-Maratha War III. The East India Company defeated the last Peshwa, Baji Rao II.
Legacy of Maratha Empire	Influenced military strategy, administration, and culture in India. They served as a representation of local opposition to outside forces. (British and Mughal)

Background of the Maratha Empire

• The Maratha Empire originated from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s rebellions against the Bijapur Sultanate and the Mughal Empire, establishing an independent kingdom based on Hindawi Swarajya with Raigad as its capital.
• In 1674, Shivaji Maharaj was anointed as the Chhatrapati of the Maratha Kingdom, which was fortified with numerous forts and naval bases by his death. Under his grandson’s leadership, it expanded into an empire by the early 18th century.
• Sambhaji Maharaj, Shivaji’s eldest son, ascended the throne in 1681 and pursued territorial expansion, defeating the Portuguese and the ruler of Mysore, which prompted Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb to attack the Marathas.
• Despite eight years of conflict from 1681 to 1689, Sambhaji never lost a battle or fort to Aurangzeb. However, he was captured and executed in 1689, an act meant to weaken Maratha morale, but their resistance persisted.
• After capturing Raigad and detaining Sambhaji’s family, Aurangzeb faced Sambhaji’s half-brother Rajaram, who was declared Chhatrapati at Jinji fort in 1690. Despite continued Mughal assaults, Rajaram managed to escape to Berar but passed away at Sinhagad in 1700.
• Tarabai, Rajaram’s widow, valiantly led the Maratha troops against the Mughals, eventually crossing the Narmada river and capturing Malwa in 1705. This victory marked a turning point, signaling the rise of Maratha power and the decline of the Mughal Empire due to financial strains and widespread rebellions.

Maratha Empire Map

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

The founder of the Maratha empire was Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest hеroеs and leaders in Indian history. Hе was born in 1630 in Shivnеri Fort to Shahaji Bhosalе, a noble and gеnеrаl under thе Adilshahi Sultanate of Bijapur. Shivaji inhеritеd a small tеrritory from his fathеr and bеgan to еxpand it by conquеring forts and lands from thе Mughals and othеr local rulеrs.

The founder of the Maratha empire also established a loyal army of soldiеrs and officеrs who followed his vision and commands. Shivaji was a visionary lеadеr who drеamеd of creating an indеpеndеnt Hindu state that would rеsist thе Mughal tyranny. Hе was also a brilliant strategist who used guerrilla warfare to outsmart his enemies. Hе was also a benevolent ruler who respected all religions and cultures and promoted justicе and wеlfarе for his subjеcts.

Shivaji foundеd thе Maratha dynasty that rulеd ovеr thе еmpirе for almost two centuries.

• Hе was crownеd as Chhatrapati or Empеror in 1674 at Raigad Fort after dеfеating the Mughals in several battles.
• He died in 1680 and was succeeded by his son Sambhaji, who continued his father’s lеgacy of fighting against the Mughals.
• Sambhaji was capturеd and еxеcutеd by Aurangzеb in 1689, after which his brother Rajaram took оvеr thе throne.
• Rajaram diеd in 1700, and his widow Tarabai actеd as rеgеnt for his son Shahuji II until 1707, Bahadur Shah released whеn hе I aftеr Aurangzеb’s dеath.
• Shahuji II bеcamе thе nеxt Chhatrapati and appointеd Balaji Vishwanath as his Pеshwa or Primе Ministеr in 1713.
• Balaji Vishwanath startеd a nеw linе of Pеshwas who became thе dе facto rulers of thе еmpirе whilе Shahuji II rеmainеd as a nominal figurеhеad.

List of Maratha Empire Kings

Throughout its history, the Maratha Empire was home to some renowned kings. The following is a list of notable Maratha rulers:

Kings	Reign
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj	(1630-1680)
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj	(1657-1689)
Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj	(1670-1700)
Chhatrapati Shivaji II	(1680-1714)
Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj	(1682-1749)
Chhatrapati Ramaraja	(1710-1777)
Chhatrapati Shahu II	(1763-1808)
Chhatrapati Pratapsingh Maharaj	(1793-1847)
Chhatrapati Shahaji	(1802-1848)
Chhatrapati Shahu III	(1830-1866)
Chhatrapati Shahu IV	(1874-1922)

Maratha Empire During the Peshwa Era

The history of the Maratha Empire (1674-1818) is an epic saga characterized by its strategic geography, which was pivotal to its expansion, and its fascinating facts that continue to captivate historians and enthusiasts alike.” The Maratha’s military campaigns persisted even after Shivaji’s demise in 1680, leading to the rise of the Peshwa-led Maratha Empire.

Sambhaji

• Sambhaji, Shivaji’s heir, propelled the Maratha Empire to new heights. His forces remained undefeated against Aurangzeb’s Mughals for eight years.
• Captured and executed by the Mughals in 1689, Sambhaji’s death led to a succession of rulers including his son Shahu, Rajaram, Tarabai, and Rajaram’s widow.
• In 1713, Balaji Vishwanath was appointed as Peshwa, effectively becoming the Prime Minister during Shahu’s reign, and later assumed de facto leadership.

Strategy of Balaji Vishwanath

• Balaji Vishwanath secured maritime capabilities for the Marathas through the Treaty of Lonavala with Kanhoji Angre in 1714.
• The Maratha army’s expansion bolstered their confidence, leading to the conquest of Delhi in 1719, including the ousting of the Mughal governor and emperor.

Baji Rao I

• Ascending as Peshwa in 1720, Baji Rao I was pivotal in the empire’s swift territorial growth, engaging in over 40 battles, notably the Battle of Palkhed (1728), Battle of Delhi (1737), and Battle of Bhopal.
• Post Baji Rao I’s death in April 1740, his young son Balaji Baji Rao succeeded him as Peshwa, chosen by Shahu.

Expansion under Raghoji I Bhonsale

• Raghoji I Bhonsale, governing the Nagpur Kingdom, played a significant role in the Maratha’s rapid expansion, including six invasions into Bengal, leading to the capture of Odisha.
• The empire’s wealth surged when the Nawab of Bengal agreed to an annual tribute of 1.2 million rupees.
• The Marathas’ northern recognition was cemented with the capture of Peshawar on May 8, 1758.

End of the Peshwa Era

• Baji Rao II, the last Peshwa, marked the conclusion of the Maratha Empire’s Peshwa period.

Mughal Empire vs Maratha Empire

• The Marathas and the Mughals were prominent dynasties in India during the 17th and 18th centuries.
• The Marathas aspired to establish their independent kingdom while the Mughals held sway over most of India.
• Maratha warriors fiercely resisted Mughal rule, fighting for their autonomy and security.
• Proficient in guerrilla tactics, the Marathas used their knowledge of the terrain to challenge the formidable Mughal army.
• The Mughals sought to subdue the Marathas and bring them under their dominion.
• Despite Mughal opposition, the Marathas succeeded in founding their own kingdom in western India and expanding their territory.
• The Marathas frequently forged alliances with other regional powers to safeguard their interests against Mughal encroachment.
• The conflict between the Marathas and the Mughals persisted over many years, marked by numerous battles and negotiations.
• Over time, the Marathas emerged as a significant political force in India, challenging the supremacy of the Mughal Empire.
• The Marathas played a pivotal role in weakening the Mughal Empire, paving the way for the ascent of other regional powers in India.

Wars and Conflicts of the Maratha Empire

Wars Against the Mughal Empire

• Battle of Salher (1672): The Marathas achieved one of their earliest victories over the Mughals, establishing their dominance in the region.
• Siege of Purandar (1665): Shivaji Maharaj engaged in a pivotal battle with the Mughals, resulting in the Treaty of Purandar. While Shivaji ceded some forts, he gained recognition of his rule over other territories.
• Battle of Palkhed (1728): Under Baji Rao I, the Marathas decisively defeated the Nizam of Hyderabad, showcasing their superiority in guerrilla tactics.

Conflicts with the Deccan Sultanates

• Battles of Konkan (1660): Shivaji Maharaj’s campaigns against the Adil Shahi and Siddi rulers secured Maratha access to the Arabian Sea.
• Battle of Kolhapur (1659): Shivaji’s victory over the Bijapur Sultanate enhanced both his reputation and the strength of the Maratha Empire.

Wars Against European Powers

• Anglo-Maratha Wars (1775–1818): A series of conflicts with the British East India Company that ultimately led to the downfall of the Maratha Empire and British supremacy in India.
• Maratha-Portuguese Wars: Shivaji and Sambhaji led engagements in the 17th and 18th centuries to reduce Portuguese influence in the Indian subcontinent.

Internal Conflicts and Expansion Campaigns

• Battle of Panipat (1761): A catastrophic defeat for the Marathas against Ahmad Shah Abdali, marking a setback in their northern ambitions.
• Northern Expedition: Under Baji Rao I, the Marathas expanded northwards, establishing dominance in North India.

Conquests in Rajasthan and Central India

Leaders like Malhar Rao Holkar, Ranoji Scindia, and the Peshwas extended Maratha influence in Rajasthan and Central India, shaping local politics and extracting tributes.

Defense and Recovery

Despite the setback at Panipat, leaders like Madhav Rao I worked tirelessly to recover lost territories and restore Maratha power. Their innovative strategies left a lasting legacy on India’s history.

Life Under the Maratha Empire: A Flourishing Era

The Maratha Empire, spanning the 17th and 18th centuries, was a period of significant development in art, literature, and administration. Let’s delve deeper into these aspects:

Artistic Expression

The Maratha era witnessed a distinct artistic style. While incorporating European elements, the “Maratha School” of painting didn’t quite match the grandeur of the Mughal school. Renowned Maratha artists included Anuprao, Mankoji, Ragho, and Tanhaji.

Literary Flourishing

Marathi literature flourished under Maratha patronage. Scholars and poets enjoyed the support of kings like those of Tanjore, Tukkoji, Tuljaji, and Sarfoji. Marathi, an ancient language, became a prominent literary medium.

A Well-Oiled Administration

The Maratha Empire employed a four-pronged administrative structure: Central, Provincial, Revenue, and Military.

Centralized Power: The Ashtapradhan

Shivaji established the Ashtapradhan, a council of eight ministers, each responsible for specific areas and directly accountable to the emperor. These ministers included:

• Sari-i-Naubat (Senapati): Commander-in-Chief
• Peshwa: Finance and overall administration
• Dabir: Foreign Affairs
• Panditrao: Religious Head
• Nyayadhish: Chief Justice
• Amatya: Revenue and expenditure
• Surunavis or Chitnis: Royal correspondence
• Waqenavis: Personal and family affairs

Provincial Administration: Efficient Governance

Shivaji divided his kingdom into provinces for effective taxation and administration. Each province was further divided into Parganas (sub-districts) and Tarafs (districts). Here’s a breakdown of the provincial hierarchy:

• Prants and Sarsubadars: Conquered territories were organized into provinces (Prants) led by Sarsubadars with Subedars (officers) under their command. Havaldars served as district officers.
• Deshpande and Deshmukh: Responsible for law and order in Tarafs (districts).
• Patil and Kulkarni: Maintained village (Mauza) administration.

A Reformed Revenue System

The Marathas adopted and modified existing revenue systems:

• Kathi System: Based on Malik Amber’s land valuation method.
• Chauth and Sardeshmukhi: Introduced by Shivaji, Chauth (one-fourth of land revenue) was levied on bordering Mughal territories in exchange for protection. Sardeshmukhi (10% additional tax) was collected based on Shivaji’s claim to be the overlord.
• Ryotwari System: This system, directly collecting taxes from farmers (ryots), reduced middleman exploitation.
• Mirasdars: Landowners with hereditary rights, they paid minimal taxes and were subject to Shivaji’s control.

Military Prowess: Discipline and Innovation

Shivaji’s innovative military administration played a crucial role in the Maratha success:

• Cash Salaries: A departure from the traditional land grants, soldiers received regular cash salaries.
• Strict Discipline: Military discipline was paramount, with regulations regarding women and entertainers accompanying troops.
• Organized Logistics: War booty was meticulously documented.
• Standing Army and Cavalry: The Paga, a regular cavalry force, consisted of 30,000-40,000 Silahdars (mounted soldiers) under Havaldar command.
• Naval Power: Shivaji recognized the importance of a navy, establishing dockyards and ships for both trade and defense.
• Diversity and Tactics: Maratha forces included soldiers from various castes, promoting inclusivity. Guerilla warfare tactics were emphasized, alongside training in mountain warfare.

Religious Tolerance

Shivaji, despite his Hindu faith, was known for his secular rule:

• Defender of Faith: He earned the title “protector of Hindus, Brahmins, and cows.”
• Respect for All Religions: He respected all religious texts and did not destroy mosques.
• Protection of Civilians: During wars, he ensured the safety of Muslim women and children.
• Patronage and Support: He provided financial aid to Muslim scholars and saints. Muslims held positions in both civil and military services.

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Decline of the Maratha Empire

• British East India Company overthrew the Nawab of Bengal and gained control of eastern India.
• The company’s focus shifted to the Marathas in northern India after 1803.
• “Battle of Delhi” in 1803: General Lake’s English forces defeated the Marathas.
• “Second Anglo-Maratha War” (1803-1805): The British triumphed, resulting in treaties favoring the British.
• Maratha Empire’s decline culminated in the defeat of Peshwa Baji Rao II in the “Third Anglo-Maratha War.”
• British conquest marked the end of the Maratha Empire.

Lеgacy and Historical Significancе

Military Strategies and Innovations

• The Marathas pioneered these tactics, effectively used by Shivaji Maharaj and his successors to combat larger armies.
• Their expansion across the subcontinent weakened the Mughal Empire and challenged European colonial powers.

Administrative and Governance Reforms

• Shivaji established a progressive system, emphasizing merit and loyalty.
• The Chauth and Sardeshmukhi system funded expansion while asserting Maratha’s influence.

Cultural Contributions

• The Maratha Empire patronized arts, literature, and architecture, popularizing festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi.
• Hindu temples were constructed, and religious practices were supported.

Religious and Social Impact

• Leaders like her contributed to social welfare through temple restoration and public works.
• The decentralized Maratha confederacy shaped Indian politics and resistance movements.

Legacy in Modern India

• The empire’s legacy influences regional pride and politics.
• Monuments, forts, and palaces continue to showcase India’s rich heritage.

Conclusion

Thе Maratha Empirе was a rеmarkablе Indian phеnomеnon that showed thе powеr and potential of a small group of pеoplе. Its originatеd from thе Maratha pеoplе, who rеsistеd thе Mughal rulе and fought for frееdom and justicе. It grеw into a formidablе forcе that challеngеd and dеfеatеd many еnеmiеs, including thе Mughals, thе British, thе Portuguеsе, and thе Afghans. Exploring the Maratha Empire (1674-1818) reveals an epic saga of military ingenuity and political maneuvering, deeply influenced by its strategic geography, and enriched by fascinating facts that illustrate its enduring influence.”

It еxtеndеd its domain to covеr most of India, creating a vast and divеrsе еmpirе that had different rеgions, languagеs, rеligions, and culturеs. It еnrichеd India’s culturе with its achiеvеmеnts and innovations in various fields, such as art, litеraturе, architеcturе, and warfarе. and also contributed to thе dеvеlopmеnt of dеmocracy, nationalism, and social rеform in India. Thе Maratha Empirе was an еmpirе that made a lasting impact on India’s history and hеritagе. It was an еmpirе that inspired gеnеrations of Indians to fight for their rights and dignity.

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