The Rise and Fall of the Maratha Empire: An Interesting History
The Maratha Empire is one of those intriguing chapters in Indian history that always manages to grab our attention. I mean, whenever we discuss Indian history, the name of Sharathiya Maratha Empire definitely comes up. And, do you know what’s really interesting? Its roots are deeply linked to the early life of Shivaji Maharaj. In the 17th century, in Raigarh, the ancient small capital of Maharashtra, a fearless commander was born. The name of that warrior is Shivaji Raje Bhosale, who in his life laid the foundation of an empire whose history the world can never forget.
Shivaji Maharaj: Founder of the Maratha Empire
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was born on 19 February 1630, this day is celebrated as Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti. On June 6, 1674, he established this empire, So, he was the founder of Maratha Empire. He has been interested in politics and war since childhood. Showed dedication and courage against Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. During the reign of Aurangzeb, the people of Maharashtra lived a miserable life. Without fear, he fought whole-heartedly to save his motherland.
Raigarh: Capital of Swarajya
Shivaji Maharaj made Raigarh his capital, from where he established the governance of the empire. His aim was Swaraj i.e. self-independence, and he had a special contribution in its development.
Expansion of Maratha Empire
His son, Sambhaji, and then Rajaram expanded it even further. They established an administrative system and established their authority over large areas of Maharashtra. The Maratha chieftains created a capable and coherent army, the purpose of which was to fight against the Mughal emperor.
Sources of income
During the reign of Shivaji, the ruler of the empire, the main sources of income were Chauth and Sardeshmukhi. Chauth meant that it was one-fourth of the total land income of an area, and was used to protect it from foreign invasion. Along with this, Sardeshmukhi was also an ancient tax which was given to the Maratha chief so that he could protect the rights of the people. These sources of income were economically important for this empire and through them the economic condition of the state was improved.
Maratha-Aurangzeb War: Battle against Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb
This empire fought a long war against the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. During the Maratha-Aurangzeb War, the Marathas achieved success against the Mughal emperor and extended their authority over the territory of ancient Maharashtra.
Its Peshwa (Prime Minister) was an important part of the administration. Also, Peshwa Bajirao played an important role in making it even bigger. He wanted to expand the empire and improve the system, and with this goal in mind, he succeeded in making the empire a strong and coherent empire.
Battle of Panipat: Fall of the Empire
In 1761, a famous battle overturned the fortunes of this empire. In the battle of Panipat, the entire empire fought against the Afghan invader Ahmed Shah Abdali, but faced defeat in this war. As a result of this war, their power became weak, and they were unable to prepare for war with the British East India Company.
End Of Empire
They also fought in the Anglo-Maratha War with the British East India Company in the late 18th century, but one day the empire accepted the decline of British power. In 1818, they captured Maharashtra, thus ending the Maratha Empire.
It is an important history of our Indian history. In this history, it emerged as a small state and left its identity as a superpower. From Shivaji Maharaj to Prithvi Raj Chauhan and his successors, leaders offered their lives for their country. Indeed moment, this story is an alleviation to us, showing that indeed an ordinary person can bring about significant change, if it involves courage and action.