Maratha Empire

Maratha Empire emerged as a dominant power in India during the 17th and 18th centuries.
Shivaji Maharaj (1627–1680) was the founder of the Maratha Empire.
Shivaji established a well-organized and disciplined administration based on the principles of justice and welfare.
The Coronation of Shivaji in 1674 at Raigad marked the formal beginning of the Maratha Empire.
Shivaji created a powerful navy to protect the western coastline from foreign invasions.
He introduced Ashta Pradhan Mandal, an eight-minister council for efficient administration.
The Marathas were known for their innovative guerrilla warfare tactics, called Ganimi Kava.
After Shivaji’s death, the empire was expanded under his successors, including Sambhaji and Rajaram.
The Maratha Confederacy was formed under the leadership of the Peshwas.
Balaji Vishwanath, the first prominent Peshwa, consolidated Maratha power and influence.
Baji Rao I (1720–1740), one of the greatest Peshwas, expanded the empire beyond the Deccan region.
Marathas controlled significant territories in Mughal-dominated North India, including Malwa, Gujarat, and Bundelkhand.
Panipat Battle (1761) was a turning point; the Marathas faced a severe defeat against Ahmad Shah Abdali.
Despite setbacks, they maintained influence in regions like Mysore and Hyderabad.
Marathas established efficient tax systems like Chauth (25% of revenue) and Sardeshmukhi (10% additional tax).
The Maratha Navy under commanders like Kanhoji Angre secured coastal areas and challenged European powers.
The rise of the Marathas marked the decline of the Mughal Empire.
Marathas played a significant role in defending India from foreign invasions, including Nadir Shah and Abdali.
They were instrumental in shaping modern Indian resistance against colonial powers.
Shahu Maharaj’s reign marked the consolidation of the Maratha Empire.
The rivalry between Nana Phadnavis and other leaders led to political instability.
The Third Anglo-Maratha War (1817–1818) marked the end of the Maratha Empire.
The empire officially dissolved after the British annexed territories under the Doctrine of Lapse.
Marathas significantly influenced the social and political structures of medieval India.
Their legacy includes contributions to art, architecture, and administration.
Major forts like Sinhagad, Pratapgad, and Raigad stand as symbols of Maratha valor.
Marathas formed alliances with various regional powers to counter foreign aggression.
Key treaties, such as the Treaty of Purandar (1665) and Treaty of Salbai (1782), defined their relations with other powers.
Their focus on regional autonomy and decentralized governance shaped future Indian politics.
Maratha rulers emphasized religious tolerance and patronage of various faiths.
Their leadership inspired subsequent movements for Indian independence.