The Maratha Empire was one of the most powerful warrior states in Indian history, which challenged the Mughal and other foreign powers during the 17th and 18th centuries. Established by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the Marathas gradually expanded their rule and, at their peak, controlled vast territories, including Delhi.
In this article, we will explore how the Marathas rose to power, expanded their empire, the key rulers who ascended the throne, and their achievements.
The Rise of Maratha Power
1. Origin and Early Struggles of the Marathas
The Marathas were a warrior community primarily based in Maharashtra. For a long time, they served under the Bijapur Sultanate and the Golconda Sultanate. However, their real rise began in the 17th century when Shivaji Maharaj rebelled against the Mughals and other regional powers to establish an independent kingdom.
2. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (1630-1680) – Founder of the Maratha Empire
Shivaji Maharaj captured Torna Fort in 1645, marking the beginning of Maratha rule. He adopted the guerrilla warfare strategy (Ganimi Kava) to defeat the Mughals, Bijapur, and other enemies. In 1674, he was crowned at Raigad Fort and officially became the Chhatrapati (King) of the Marathas.
3. Sambhaji Maharaj (1681-1689) and Conflict with the Mughals
After Shivaji’s death, his son Sambhaji Maharaj ascended the throne. He was a brave warrior but was captured by the Mughals in 1689 and executed by Aurangzeb.
Maharani Tarabai (1689-1700) – Defender of the Maratha Empire
After Sambhaji Maharaj’s execution, the Mughals attempted to destroy Maratha power, but Maharani Tarabai emerged as a strong leader who safeguarded the empire.
Who was Tarabai?
- Tarabai was the wife of Rajaram Maharaj and the daughter-in-law of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
- When Sambhaji Maharaj was killed, his son Shahu Maharaj was imprisoned by the Mughals, so Tarabai declared her young son Shivaji II as the new ruler.
- She led the Maratha resistance and continued guerrilla warfare against the Mughals.
- Under her leadership, the Marathas regained several lost territories and weakened Mughal power.
Her strategic brilliance and military leadership played a key role in keeping the Maratha Empire strong during difficult times.
Expansion of the Maratha Empire and the Peshwa Rule (1707-1818)
1. Shahu Maharaj (1707-1749) and the Peshwa System
After Aurangzeb’s death in 1707, the Mughal Empire weakened. Shahu Maharaj was released from Mughal captivity, and he reorganized the Maratha administration. He introduced the Peshwa (Prime Minister) system, which allowed the Peshwas to take control of governance.
2. Prominent Peshwas and Their Rule
(i) Balaji Vishwanath (1713-1720):
- Signed the Delhi Agreement (1719) with the Mughals, allowing Marathas to collect Chauth and Sardeshmukhi taxes from Mughal territories.
(ii) Baji Rao I (1720-1740):
- Expanded the Maratha rule across Malwa, Gujarat, Bundelkhand, and Delhi.
- Defeated the Mughals near Delhi in 1737, weakening their control.
(iii) Balaji Baji Rao (1740-1761):
- Under him, the Marathas became the dominant power in India.
- The Third Battle of Panipat (1761) against Ahmad Shah Abdali resulted in a major loss for the Marathas, leading to their decline.
Mahadji Scindia and the Revival of Maratha Power (1761-1794)
- Mahadji Scindia re-established Maratha control over Delhi in 1771.
- He placed the Mughal emperor under Maratha protection, making them the real rulers of Delhi.
Third Anglo-Maratha War and the Fall of the Maratha Empire (1818)
- Under Baji Rao II, the Marathas fought against the British in the Third Anglo-Maratha War (1817-1818).
- The British emerged victorious, and by 1818, the Maratha Empire was completely dissolved.
Major Achievements of the Maratha Empire
- Efficient Administration: The Marathas introduced a well-structured governance system, led by the Peshwas, military leaders, and ministers.
- Powerful Military Tactics: Shivaji Maharaj developed guerrilla warfare strategies that proved highly effective.
- Naval Strength: Shivaji Maharaj established India’s first strong navy to protect the western coast.
- Expansion Across India: The Marathas controlled territories from Maharashtra to Delhi and Punjab.
- End of Mughal Dominance: The Marathas played a crucial role in weakening the Mughal Empire.
- Political Influence: The Marathas maintained alliances with Rajputs, Sikhs, and other Indian rulers to strengthen their position.
Conclusion
The Maratha Empire was one of the most influential states in Indian history. Founded by Shivaji Maharaj, strengthened by Tarabai, and expanded by the Peshwas, it dominated the Indian subcontinent during the 18th century.
However, after the Third Battle of Panipat and growing conflicts with the British, the Maratha power started declining. By 1818, the British had taken full control, marking the end of Maratha rule.
Despite their downfall, the military tactics, governance, and legacy of the Marathas continue to inspire India’s history and heritage.
