Misplaced Pages

List of battles involving the Maratha Confederacy: Difference between revisions

Article snapshot taken from Wikipedia with creative commons attribution-sharealike license. Give it a read and then ask your questions in the chat. We can research this topic together.
Browse history interactively← Previous editNext edit →Content deleted Content addedVisualWikitext
Revision as of 01:33, 7 May 2015 view sourceDelibzr (talk | contribs)888 edits revert disruption← Previous edit Revision as of 02:10, 7 May 2015 view source Xtremedood (talk | contribs)Extended confirmed users4,028 edits Undid revision 661188518 by Delibzr (talk) Unexplained changes. I put a lot of effort into those changes. I added more references than there were previously. Take it to the talk page.Next edit →
Line 7: Line 7:
The Maratha Empire was at its height in the 18th century under Shahu and the Peshwa ]. Losses at the ] in 1761 suspended further expansion of the empire in the North-west and reduced the power of the Peshwas. In 1761, after severe losses in the Panipat war, the Peshwas slowly started losing the control of the kingdom. Many military chiefs of the Maratha Empire like ], ], ], ], ] of Nagpur, ] of ], ], and ] started to work towards their ambition of becoming kings in their respective regions. However, under ], Maratha authority in North India was restored, 10 years after the battle of Panipat. After the death of Madhavrao, the empire gave way to a loose Confederacy, with political power resting in a 'pentarchy' of five mostly Maratha dynasties: the Peshwas of ]; the ]s (originally "Shindes") of ] and ]; the ]s of ]; the ]s of ]; and the ]s of ]. A rivalry between the Sindhia and Holkar dominated the confederation's affairs into the early 19th century, as did the clashes with the British and the ] in the three ]. In the ], the last Peshwa, Baji Rao II, was defeated by the British in 1818. Most of the former Maratha Empire was absorbed by ], although some of the Maratha states persisted as quasi-independent ] until India became independent in 1947. The Maratha Empire was at its height in the 18th century under Shahu and the Peshwa ]. Losses at the ] in 1761 suspended further expansion of the empire in the North-west and reduced the power of the Peshwas. In 1761, after severe losses in the Panipat war, the Peshwas slowly started losing the control of the kingdom. Many military chiefs of the Maratha Empire like ], ], ], ], ] of Nagpur, ] of ], ], and ] started to work towards their ambition of becoming kings in their respective regions. However, under ], Maratha authority in North India was restored, 10 years after the battle of Panipat. After the death of Madhavrao, the empire gave way to a loose Confederacy, with political power resting in a 'pentarchy' of five mostly Maratha dynasties: the Peshwas of ]; the ]s (originally "Shindes") of ] and ]; the ]s of ]; the ]s of ]; and the ]s of ]. A rivalry between the Sindhia and Holkar dominated the confederation's affairs into the early 19th century, as did the clashes with the British and the ] in the three ]. In the ], the last Peshwa, Baji Rao II, was defeated by the British in 1818. Most of the former Maratha Empire was absorbed by ], although some of the Maratha states persisted as quasi-independent ] until India became independent in 1947.


==Conquests of Shivaji== ==Battles under Shivaji==


===Battle of Pratapgad=== ===Battle of Pratapgad===
{{Main|Battle of Pratapgad}} {{Main|Battle of Pratapgad}}
The battle of ] was the first Maratha conquest. Shivaji vanquished Afzal Khan in the ] which was fought on 30 November 1659. This feat made Shivaji the hero of Maratha folklore and legend. All contemporary powers of the Indian subcontinent were shocked to see the outcome of the battle. Afzal Khan was a fearless and distinguished commander who had even caught hold of ] in one siege. The battle of ] was the first Maratha conquest. Shivaji vanquished Afzal Khan in the ] which was fought on 30 November 1659.


===Battle of Kolhapur=== ===Battle of Kolhapur===
{{Main|Battle of Kolhapur}} {{Main|Battle of Kolhapur}}
The second ] victory came on the battle of Kolhapur fought on 28 December 1659. The second ] victory came on the battle of Kolhapur fought on 28 December 1659.
After the demise of Afzal Khan, another army of over 10,000 was sent against Shivaji, commanded by Bijapuri general Rustemjaman. Shivaji with 5000 cavalry attacked near Kolhapur. In a swift movement, Shivaji attacked the centre of the enemy while his wings attacked from the flanks. In a pitched battle,the enemy was crushed and Rustemjaman fled.


===Battle of Pavan Khind=== ===Battle of Pavan Khind===
{{Main|Battle of Pavan Khind}} {{Main|Battle of Pavan Khind}}
Adil Shah sent an ] general of repute, Siddi Jauhar in 1660. Shivaji took up a position at ], near present day ], on the borders of his dominion. The Mughals also sent contingents under the celebrated Shaista Khan, who camped at ]. Shivaji in a brilliant move decided to break the siege of the fort, so that the enemy would scatter. Then war would be fought on a vast territory with amazing speed. Adil Shah sent an ] general of repute, Siddi Jauhar in 1660. Shivaji took up a position at ], near present day ], on the borders of his dominion. However ] was surrendered to Siddi Jauhar.

In a rear-guard defense Baji Prabhu Deshpande held the enemy in the ] and Shivaji pierced through the enemy, relaunched an attack and won a victory in the ]. However ] was surrendered to Siddi Jauhar.
===Battle of Chakan===
{{Main|Battle of Chakan}}
The '''Battle of Chakan''' was fought between the ] and the ] in the year 1660. The battle resulted in a ] victory.<ref name="chakan">{{cite book|title=Dictionary of Battles and Sieges|page=220|publisher=Greenwood Press|author= Jacques, Tony|isbn=978-0-313-33536-5}}</ref>


===Conquest of Konkan=== ===Conquest of Konkan===
{{Main|Battle of Umberkhind}} {{Main|Battle of Umberkhind}}
An ] general, Kartalab Khan, was sent on a mission to attack and reduce Shivaji's forts in the ] on 3 February 1661. He left ] with 30,000 troops. This time the ] did not march openly, since they wanted to surprise ]. But Shivaji took them by surprise at a pass known as 'Umber Khind', near present-day ],{{disambiguation needed|date=December 2012}} and attacked them from all sides. Shivaji himself took the forward position with chosen ]. The other three sides were blocked with light infantry. In a movement of light infantry and cavalry, Shivaji prevailed over them. Within four hours the enemy accepted defeat. They surrendered with their baggage and arms. The Mughal army suffered huge casualties. The defeated army was allowed a safe passage. A lady commander Raibagan who fought from the Mughal side was released with honour true to ]'s policy towards women. An ] general, Kartalab Khan, was sent on a mission to attack and reduce Shivaji's forts in the ] on 3 February 1661. He left ] with 30,000 troops. This time the ] did not march openly, since they wanted to surprise ]. But Shivaji took them by surprise at a pass known as 'Umber Khind', near present-day ],{{disambiguation needed|date=December 2012}} and attacked them from all sides.


===Sacking of Surat=== ===Sacking of Surat===
{{Main|Battle of Surat}} {{Main|Battle of Surat}}
In the ], Shivaji challenged Mughal Fauzdar of ] who avoided the battle. Instead of battle, he sent an ] who tried to assassinate Shivaji. As a result the town was attacked and put under sack for nearly 3 weeks, in which the Maratha army looted all possible wealth from Mughal and Portuguese trading centers. However, no men or women were molested or taken as slave as was the ] practise. The poor were spared. In the ], Shivaji challenged Mughal Fauzdar of ]. The town was attacked and put under sack for nearly 3 weeks, in which the Maratha army looted all possible wealth from Mughal and Portuguese trading centers.

===Battle of Purandar===
{{Main|Battle of Purandar}}
The Battle of Purandar was fought between the ] and ] in 1665. The Mughal Emperor, ], sent his generals ] and Jai Singh to besiege ]'s fortress at ]. After Mughal forces killed Maratha General ] on June 2nd, 1665, ] surrendered and gave up 23 of his fortresses. The battle resulted in a ] victory.<ref name="purandar">{{cite book|title=Dictionary of Battles and Sieges|page=825|publisher=Greenwood Press|author= Jacques, Tony|isbn=978-0-313-33536-5}}</ref>


===Battle of Sinhagad=== ===Battle of Sinhagad===
{{Main|Battle of Sinhagad}} {{Main|Battle of Sinhagad}}
One fort on the outskirts of ], ], was still under the control of a Mughal general. On 4 February 1670 Shivaji deputed one of his most senior and trusted generals, ], to head a mission to capture Kondana. Tanaji Malusare was already busy with his son's marriage. But for him duty came first, and he chose to go on the mission although Shivaji tried to convince him to attend his son's marriage and then take the mission. In the Battle of Sinhagad, the fort was scaled during the dead of the night, but victory was secured with loss of Tanaji. This battle is quite popular in folklore. When Shivaji learned that he has lost his loyal and trusted friend, he said "Gad ala pan sinh gela", meaning ''We have won the fort, but lost the Lion''. One fort on the outskirts of ], ], was still under the control of a Mughal general. On 4 February 1670 Shivaji deputed one of his most senior and trusted generals, ], to head a mission to capture Kondana. In the Battle of Sinhagad, the fort was scaled during the dead of the night, but victory was secured with loss of Tanaji.

===Battle of Kalyan===
{{Main|Battle of Kalyan}}
The Battle of Kalyan occurred between the ] and ] between 1682 and 1683. ] of the Mughal Empire defeated the Maratha army and took over ]. The Marathas attempted a counter offensive, but failed and they were repulsed by ] forces.<ref name="kalyan">{{cite book|title=Dictionary of Battles and Sieges|page=505|publisher=Greenwood Press|author= Jacques, Tony|isbn=978-0-313-33536-5}}</ref>

===Battle of Bhupalgarh===
{{Main|Battle of Bhupalgarh}}
The Battle of Bhupalgarh occurred between the ] and ] empires in 1679. The battle resulted in the razing of the fort of ] and subsequent defeat of the ] under ] by the Mughal forces.<ref name="bhupalgarh">{{cite book|title=Dictionary of Battles and Sieges|page=137|publisher=Greenwood Press|author= Jacques, Tony|isbn=978-0-313-33536-5}}</ref>

===Battle of Sangamner===
{{Main|Battle of Sangamner}}
The Battle of Sangamner was fought between the ] and ] in 1679. This was the last battle in which the ] King ] fought. The ] had attacked ] when he was returning from a sack on ]. The ] engaged in battle with the ] for three days until ] General, ] was killed alongside 2,000 ] soldiers. The ] were largely decimated, however ] managed to flee with 500 men.<ref name="sangamner">{{cite book|title=Dictionary of Battles and Sieges|page=825|publisher=Greenwood Press|author= Jacques, Tony|isbn=978-0-313-33536-5}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.ca/books?id=HsBPTc3hcekC&pg=PA100|title=Chhatrapati Shivaji|page=100|publisher=Diamond Pocket Books Ltd.|author= Rana, Bhawan Singh |}}</ref>


===Battle of Salher=== ===Battle of Salher===
{{Main|Battle of Salher}} {{Main|Battle of Salher}}
The fort of Salher dominated the route between Surat and the realms of Shivaji. There was a fierce battle between the Marathas and the Mughal army.<ref>Dictionary of Battles and Sieges P-Z, p.888</ref>
The fort of Salher dominated the route between Surat and the realms of Shivaji. There was a fierce battle between the Marathas and the Mughal army.Fort Commander Fatullah Khan was Killed in this attack.Mugals learnt this and sent Daud Khan to besiege the fort.he besieged fort with army of 75000 and had as many as 50 Generals.But Prataprao gujar broke siege from outside and won that battle.but,in this battle maharaj's friend suryaji kakade died The Mughals were completely routed. The Marathas also seized their arms and ammunitions, camels, horses and elephants. It was one of the earliest face to face battles fought by Marathas against the Mughals, instead of their famous guerrilla tactics. This proved that Marathas could fight an open battle against larger and better equipped armies like the Mughal army.
The decisive Mughal defeat at Salher shook Aurangzeb.<ref>Chhatrapati Shivaji by Bhawan Singh Rana, p.71</ref><ref>Dictionary of Battles and Sieges P-Z, p.888</ref>


===Battle of Nesari=== ===Battle of Nesari===
{{Main|Prataprao Gujar}} {{Main|Prataprao Gujar}}
Balol Khan was sent by ] to get rid of Shivaji. So, Shivaji sent Prataprao Gujar (the then Commander-in-chief of the Maratha forces) to take care of him. This was late 1673 or 1674. Bahlol Khan was defeated. But instead of capturing or killing him, Prataprao Gujar simply looted his army and set him free! Shivaji was very angry at this, and forbade Prataprao Gujar from seeing him on Raigad till this Bahlol Khan was taken care off. That included the coronation. Balol Khan was sent by ] to get rid of Shivaji. So, Shivaji sent Prataprao Gujar (the then Commander-in-chief of the Maratha forces) to take care of him. This was late 1673 or 1674.

Prataprao decided to make a stand against Bahlol Khan at Nesari near ]. Gujar with 1200 troops versus Khan with 15000. So, Prataprao reasoned that there was no point in taking 1200 men to suicide with him. So he left alone, without asking his cavalry to charge. It was his personal honour at stake, not his army. On seeing their leader head to certain death, six other Maratha sardars joined him in the charge. Anandrao and Hansaji Mohite, though, stayed back . The seven Marathas were Prataprao Gujar, Visaji Ballal, Dipoji Rautrao, Vithal Pilaji, Atre, Krishnaji Bhaskar, Siddi Hilal and Vithoji Shinde. Anandrao and Hansaji Mohite managed to take the army to safer areas. Hansaji Mohite became ], the new Sarnaubat (Commander-in-chief of the Maratha forces).


=== Southern Conquest === === Southern Conquest ===
Line 50: Line 65:
] lead the Marathas in ] for the first nine years.]] ] lead the Marathas in ] for the first nine years.]]


==Conquests after Shivaji== ==Battles after Shivaji==


===War of 27 Years === ===War of 27 Years ===
{{Main|War of 27 years}} {{Main|War of 27 years}}
War of 27 years was a series of battles fought between ] and ] from 1681 to 1707 in the Indian subcontinent. It was the longest fought war in the history of ] in which the ]s emerged victorious. War of 27 years was a series of battles fought between ] and ] from 1681 to 1707 in the Indian subcontinent.

===Battle of Satara===
{{Main|Battle of Satara}}
The Battle of Satara was fought between the ] and ] between 1699-1700. Mughal Emperor, ] ordered for an attack on the fort of ]. The ] destroyed major parts of the fortress and Maratha commander ] surrendered on April 21st, 1700.<ref name="satara">{{cite book|title=Dictionary of Battles and Sieges|page=915|publisher=Greenwood Press|author= Jacques, Tony|isbn=978-0-313-33536-5|others=''"Sindhia was defeated in a bloody three-day battle at Tunga, near Lalsot"''}}</ref>

===Battle of Khelna===
{{Main|Battle of Khelna}}
The Battle of Khelna occurred between the ] and ] between 1701-1702. Mughal Emperor ] ordered for the Fort of ] to be besieged. Mughal General ] launched an offensive and besieged the fortress. After about a three month siege, Maratha commander, ] surrendered under the condition that his life would be saved.<ref name="khelna">{{cite book|title=Dictionary of Battles and Sieges|page=525|publisher=Greenwood Press|author= Jacques, Tony|isbn=978-0-313-33536-5}}</ref>

===Battle of Torna===
{{Main|Battle of Torna}}
The Battle of ] was fought on between the ] and the ]. Mughal Emperor, ] ordered the besiegement the fortress of ] where Mughal Generals, ] and ] stormed into Torna and defeated the ].<ref name="torna">{{cite book|title=Dictionary of Battles and Sieges|page=1026|publisher=Greenwood Press|author= Jacques, Tony|isbn=978-0-313-33536-5|}}</ref>

===Battle of Raigarh===
{{Main|Battle of Raigarh}}
The Battle of ] (1703-1704) was fought on between the ] and the ]. ] Emperor, ], ordered for ] and ] to attack the Raigarh fortress once again, which was being held by ]. The ] devestated the fortress and inflicted massive damage on the ] position. Eventually the majority of the fort was captured, but the ] surrendered shortly after.<ref name="raigarh">{{cite book|title=Dictionary of Battles and Sieges|page=837|publisher=Greenwood Press|author= Jacques, Tony|isbn=978-0-313-33536-5|}}</ref>


==Conquests of the Peshwa== ==Battles of the Peshwa==
The Peshwas controlled the Maratha army and they later became the hereditary rulers of the ] from 1749 to 1818. During their rein, the Maratha empire reached its zenith ruling most of the ]. Prior to 1700 one Peshwa received the status of king for eight or nine years. They oversaw the greatest expansion of the ] around 1760 with the help of ]s (Generals) like ], ], ], Pantpratinidhi, ] (Dhane), Panse, Vinchurkar, Wable, Pethe, ], Phadke, Patwardhan, Pawar, Pandit and Purandare,Pingle and also its eventual annexation by the ] in 1818. The Peshwas controlled the Maratha army and they later became the hereditary rulers of the ] from 1749 to 1818. During their rein, the Maratha empire reached its zenith ruling most of the ]. Prior to 1700 one Peshwa received the status of king for eight or nine years. They oversaw the greatest expansion of the ] around 1760 with the help of ]s (Generals) like ], ], ], Pantpratinidhi, ] (Dhane), Panse, Vinchurkar, Wable, Pethe, ], Phadke, Patwardhan, Pawar, Pandit and Purandare,Pingle and also its eventual annexation by the ] in 1818.


===Peshwa Bajirao I=== ===Peshwa Bajirao I===
] ] fought over 41 battles and is reputed to have never lost one. ] ] fought over 41 battles.


===Battle of Palkhed=== ===Battle of Palkhed===
{{Main|Battle of Palkhed}} {{Main|Battle of Palkhed}}
Battle of Palkhed was a land battle that took place on 28 February 1728 at the village of Palkhed, near the city of Nashik, Maharashtra, India between the Maratha Peshwa, Baji Rao I and the ] of Hyderabad. The Marathas defeated the Nizam. The battle is considered an example of brilliant execution of military strategy. Battle of Palkhed was a land battle that took place on 28 February 1728 at the village of Palkhed, near the city of Nashik, Maharashtra, India between the Maratha Peshwa, Baji Rao I and the ] of Hyderabad. The Marathas defeated the Nizam.
] ]


Line 76: Line 107:
===Battle of Delhi, 1737=== ===Battle of Delhi, 1737===
{{Main|First Battle of Delhi}} {{Main|First Battle of Delhi}}
The ] took place on 28 March 1737 between Maratha Empire and the Mughals in Delhi, the Mughal capital. The Marathas were victorious in the battle and the Mughal emperor was forced to sign a treaty promising ], tributes of the region between ] and ] and 50 lakh rupees as war expenses to the Marathas. The ] took place on 28 March 1737 between Maratha Empire and the Mughals in Delhi, the Mughal capital. The Marathas were victorious in the battle and the Mughal emperor signed a treaty promising ], tributes of the region between ] and ] and 50 lakh rupees as war expenses to the Marathas.


===Battle of Bhopal=== ===Battle of Bhopal===
Line 88: Line 119:
], Maharaja of ] of the Maratha Empire, was required to undertake an expedition to Karnataka at the order of ] ]. It was mainly intended to punish Chanda Saheb who had usurped the kingdom of ] by deceiving its Rani Minakshi, and was casting his eyes on the Maratha principality of ]. Raja ], Shahu's cousin, appealed to him for help when harassed by Chanda Saheb. Chhatrapati Shahu dispatched a large force under Raghuji and Fatesingh ] of ] in 1739. ], Maharaja of ] of the Maratha Empire, was required to undertake an expedition to Karnataka at the order of ] ]. It was mainly intended to punish Chanda Saheb who had usurped the kingdom of ] by deceiving its Rani Minakshi, and was casting his eyes on the Maratha principality of ]. Raja ], Shahu's cousin, appealed to him for help when harassed by Chanda Saheb. Chhatrapati Shahu dispatched a large force under Raghuji and Fatesingh ] of ] in 1739.


In 1740, the Maratha forces came down upon ]. They attacked the Nawab, Dost Ali in the pass of Damalcherry. In the war that followed, Dost Ali, one of his sons Hasan Ali, and a number of prominent persons lost their lives. This initial success at once enhanced Maratha prestige in the south. From Damalcherry the Marathas proceeded to Arcot. It surrendered to them without much resistance. Then, Raghuji invested Trichinopoly in December 1740. Unable to resist, Chanda Saheb delivered the fort to Raghuji on 14 March 1741, on the auspicious day of ]. Chanda Saheb and his son were arrested and sent to Nagpur. In 1740, the Maratha forces came down upon ]. They attacked the Nawab, Dost Ali in the pass of Damalcherry. In the war that followed, Dost Ali, one of his sons Hasan Ali, and a number of prominent persons lost their lives. This initial success at once enhanced Maratha prestige in the south. From Damalcherry the Marathas proceeded to Arcot. Then, Raghuji invested Trichinopoly in December 1740.

===First Battle of Katwa===
{{Main|First Battle of Katwa}}
The Battle of Katwa occurred between the ] and ] Empire in 1742. The ]'s initially attacked and captured ] and ], in ]. The ] ] responded with a direct attack at the ] camp at ] and devastated them so much that the entire ] army was driven out of ] on September 17th, 1742. <ref name="katwa">{{cite book|title=Dictionary of Battles and Sieges|page=516|publisher=Greenwood Press|author= Jacques, Tony|isbn=978-0-313-33536-5}}</ref>

===Second Battle of Katwa===
{{Main|Second Battle of Katwa}}
The Second Battle of Katwa occurred between the ] and ] Empire in 1745. After the initial loss of the ]'s at the ], the ] General, ] attempted, once again, to conquer ]. Bhonsle, with 20,000 horsemen attacked ] then moved onwards to ], where ] ] once again defeated ] and his men, sending them out of ].<ref name="katwa">{{cite book|title=Dictionary of Battles and Sieges|page=516|publisher=Greenwood Press|author= Jacques, Tony|isbn=978-0-313-33536-5}}</ref>

===Battle of Burdwan===
{{Main|Battle of Burdwan}}
The Battle of Burdwan occurred between the ] and ] empires in 1747. After the dismissal of ] by ], an army was amassed to defend against the invading ] forces of ] at ]. ] managed to heavily repulse and defeat the ]'s in this battle.<ref name="bhupalgarh">{{cite book|title=Dictionary of Battles and Sieges|page=175|publisher=Greenwood Press|author= Jacques, Tony|isbn=978-0-313-33536-5}}</ref> However, it also open the floodgate of the ] almost annually.


===Expeditions in Bengal=== ===Expeditions in Bengal===
Line 130: Line 173:
Under ], Maratha authority in North India (including Delhi) was restored ten years after the battle of Panipat. The Rohillas were defeated and were forced to pay a heavy war indemnity. ] was captured by ] in late 1770 and restored ] ] to the throne of Delhi in 1772. Under ], Maratha authority in North India (including Delhi) was restored ten years after the battle of Panipat. The Rohillas were defeated and were forced to pay a heavy war indemnity. ] was captured by ] in late 1770 and restored ] ] to the throne of Delhi in 1772.


===Clash with the Nizam=== ===Battle of Alegaon===
{{Main|Battle of Alegaon}}
] allied with the ] due to mutual disrust and differences with Madhavrao. Accordingly, the Nizam marched towards ]. However, the Nizam was defeated and was forced to sign a treaty. Madhavrao acquired all the territories occupied by him.
The Battle of Alegaon was fought between ] of ] and ] of the ] against ] of the Maratha Empire.<ref name="alegaon">{{cite book|title=Dictionary of Battles and Sieges|page=27|publisher=Greenwood Press|author= Jacques, Tony|isbn=978-0-313-33536-5}}</ref> ] had established an alliance with ] of Hyderabad.<ref name="alegaon"/> When conflict arose between ] and ], a joint campaign between ] and ] resulted in ] being heavily defeated.<ref name="alegaon"/> ] surrendered on November 12th, 1762.<ref>{{cite|url=http://www.indianage.com/eventdate.php/General/12-November-1762|title=General on 12-November-1762|}}</ref> ] got all of his previously lost territories that were lost at the Battle of Udgir.<ref name="alegaon"/> ] submitted to his uncle, ].<ref name="alegaon"/>


====Battle of Rakshasbhuvan==== ===Battle of Rakshasbhuvan===
The ] was fought on 10 August 1763.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.maharashtra.gov.in/english/gazetteer/Nasik/005%20History/003%20MarathaPeriod.htm|title=History - Maratha Period|publisher=Nasik District Gazetteer|accessdate=4 September 2010}}</ref> After the defeat of the ] at the ], their rivals started seizing the opportunity to recover their losses in the past at the hands of Marathas. Particularly, the ] wanted to recover territory he had lost at the battle of ] where all of his dukes and earls were killed. He decided to launch a war on the ]. However, the Nizam was severely defeated in the battle. After the outcome, he had to flee from the battlefield to save his life. The ] was fought on 10 August 1763.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.maharashtra.gov.in/english/gazetteer/Nasik/005%20History/003%20MarathaPeriod.htm|title=History - Maratha Period|publisher=Nasik District Gazetteer|accessdate=4 September 2010}}</ref> While the Marathas were fighting amongst themselves during a civil war, the Nizam decided to attack.<ref name="raksha">{{cite book|title=Dictionary of Battles and Sieges|page=838|publisher=Greenwood Press|author= Jacques, Tony|isbn=978-0-313-33536-5}}</ref> The Nizam however failed. The Nizam gave up territory he gained during the Battle of Alegaon in an attempt to sue for peace.<ref name="raksha"/>


===Clash with Hyder Ali=== ===Clash with Hyder Ali===
Line 150: Line 194:


===Marathas in Rohilkhand=== ===Marathas in Rohilkhand===
After taking control of Delhi, Marathas sent a large army in 1772 to “punish” Afghan ]s for Panipat. Maratha army devastated Rohilkhand by looting and plundering and also took the members of royal family as captives. Maratha general Mahadaji was “very much pleased with the revenge taken by his men” for Panipat.<ref>http://books.google.co.in/books?id=uPq640stHJ0C&pg=PA8&lpg=PA8&dq=1771+scindia&source=bl&ots=Ohxv9jrPpo&sig=gdLcPTomT2FOmazdsOmytJmiiFE&hl=en&sa=X&ei=JF2_T_PEF8PYrQfPkNW2CQ&ved=0CE4Q6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=1771%20scindia&f=false</ref> After taking control of Delhi, Marathas sent a large army in 1772 to “punish” Afghan ]s for Panipat. Maratha army devastated Rohilkhand by looting and plundering and also took the members of royal family as captives.<ref>http://books.google.co.in/books?id=uPq640stHJ0C&pg=PA8&lpg=PA8&dq=1771+scindia&source=bl&ots=Ohxv9jrPpo&sig=gdLcPTomT2FOmazdsOmytJmiiFE&hl=en&sa=X&ei=JF2_T_PEF8PYrQfPkNW2CQ&ved=0CE4Q6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=1771%20scindia&f=false</ref>

===Battle of Saunshi===
{{Main|Battle of Saunshi}}
] of Mysore attempted to try to regain his lost territories of ] and ] from the ]. ] who was the Emperor of Mysore decided to attack the ] at ]. ] decided to send his General, ] to attack the ] position. The result of the battle was a victory for ] against the ] forces. Maratha Chief ] was killed and ] was caught by the ] forces.<ref name="saunshi">{{cite book|title=Dictionary of Battles and Sieges|page=979|publisher=Greenwood Press|author= Jacques, Tony|isbn=978-0-313-33536-5}}</ref>

==Later Mughal-Maratha Conflicts==

===Battle of Chaksana===
{{Main|Battle of Chaksana}}
The Battle of Chaksana occurred between the ] and ] empires in 1788. The battle ended with the ]'s retreating.<ref name="chaksana">{{cite book|title=Dictionary of Battles and Sieges|page=220|publisher=Greenwood Press|author= Jacques, Tony|isbn=978-0-313-33536-5}}</ref>


==Interregnum== ==Interregnum==

Revision as of 02:10, 7 May 2015

The Imperial Maratha Conquests were a series of conquests in the Indian subcontinent which led to the building of the Maratha Empire. These conquests were started by Shivaji in 1659 from the victory at the Battle of Pratapgad. The conquests ended with the eventual fall of the Maratha empire after the second and the third Anglo-Maratha Wars.

File:India 18th century.JPG
Maratha Empire in orange (Political Map of South Asia around 1758 AD).

Background

After a lifetime of guerrilla warfare with Adilshah of Bijapur and Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, Shivaji founded an independent Hindu Maratha kingdom in 1674 with Raigad as its capital. Shivaji died in 1680, leaving behind a large, but vulnerable kingdom. The Mughals invaded, fighting an unsuccessful War of 27 years from 1681 to 1707. Shahu, a grandson of Shivaji, ruled as emperor until 1749. During his reign, Shahu appointed the first Peshwa as head of the government, under certain conditions. After the death of Shahu, the Peshwas became the de facto leaders of the Empire from 1749 to 1761, while Shivaji's successors continued as nominal rulers from their base in Satara. Covering a large part of the subcontinent, the Maratha Empire kept the British forces at bay during the 18th century, until internal relations between the Peshwas and their sardars (army commanders) deteriorated, provoking its gradual downfall.

The Maratha Empire was at its height in the 18th century under Shahu and the Peshwa Baji Rao I. Losses at the Third Battle of Panipat in 1761 suspended further expansion of the empire in the North-west and reduced the power of the Peshwas. In 1761, after severe losses in the Panipat war, the Peshwas slowly started losing the control of the kingdom. Many military chiefs of the Maratha Empire like Shinde, Holkar, Gaikwad, PantPratinidhi, Bhosale of Nagpur, Pandit of Bhor, Patwardhan, and Newalkar started to work towards their ambition of becoming kings in their respective regions. However, under Madhavrao Peshwa, Maratha authority in North India was restored, 10 years after the battle of Panipat. After the death of Madhavrao, the empire gave way to a loose Confederacy, with political power resting in a 'pentarchy' of five mostly Maratha dynasties: the Peshwas of Pune; the Sindhias (originally "Shindes") of Malwa and Gwalior; the Holkars of Indore; the Bhonsles of Nagpur; and the Gaekwads of Baroda. A rivalry between the Sindhia and Holkar dominated the confederation's affairs into the early 19th century, as did the clashes with the British and the British East India Company in the three Anglo-Maratha Wars. In the Third Anglo-Maratha War, the last Peshwa, Baji Rao II, was defeated by the British in 1818. Most of the former Maratha Empire was absorbed by British India, although some of the Maratha states persisted as quasi-independent princely states until India became independent in 1947.

Battles under Shivaji

Battle of Pratapgad

Main article: Battle of Pratapgad

The battle of Pratapgad was the first Maratha conquest. Shivaji vanquished Afzal Khan in the battle of Pratapgad which was fought on 30 November 1659.

Battle of Kolhapur

Main article: Battle of Kolhapur

The second Maratha victory came on the battle of Kolhapur fought on 28 December 1659.

Battle of Pavan Khind

Main article: Battle of Pavan Khind

Adil Shah sent an Abyssinian general of repute, Siddi Jauhar in 1660. Shivaji took up a position at Panhala fort, near present day Kolhapur, on the borders of his dominion. However Panhala was surrendered to Siddi Jauhar.

Battle of Chakan

Main article: Battle of Chakan

The Battle of Chakan was fought between the Maratha Empire and the Mughal Empire in the year 1660. The battle resulted in a Mughal victory.

Conquest of Konkan

Main article: Battle of Umberkhind

An Uzbek general, Kartalab Khan, was sent on a mission to attack and reduce Shivaji's forts in the Konkan on 3 February 1661. He left Pune with 30,000 troops. This time the Mughals did not march openly, since they wanted to surprise Shivaji. But Shivaji took them by surprise at a pass known as 'Umber Khind', near present-day Penn, and attacked them from all sides.

Sacking of Surat

Main article: Battle of Surat

In the Battle of Surat, Shivaji challenged Mughal Fauzdar of Surat. The town was attacked and put under sack for nearly 3 weeks, in which the Maratha army looted all possible wealth from Mughal and Portuguese trading centers.

Battle of Purandar

Main article: Battle of Purandar

The Battle of Purandar was fought between the Mughal Empire and Maratha Empire in 1665. The Mughal Emperor, Aurangzeb, sent his generals Dilir Khan and Jai Singh to besiege Shivaji's fortress at Purandar. After Mughal forces killed Maratha General Murar Baji Prabhu on June 2nd, 1665, Shivaji surrendered and gave up 23 of his fortresses. The battle resulted in a Mughal victory.

Battle of Sinhagad

Main article: Battle of Sinhagad

One fort on the outskirts of Pune, Kondana, was still under the control of a Mughal general. On 4 February 1670 Shivaji deputed one of his most senior and trusted generals, Tanaji Malusare, to head a mission to capture Kondana. In the Battle of Sinhagad, the fort was scaled during the dead of the night, but victory was secured with loss of Tanaji.

Battle of Kalyan

Main article: Battle of Kalyan

The Battle of Kalyan occurred between the Mughal Empire and Maratha Empire between 1682 and 1683. Bahadur Khan of the Mughal Empire defeated the Maratha army and took over Kalyan. The Marathas attempted a counter offensive, but failed and they were repulsed by Mughal forces.

Battle of Bhupalgarh

Main article: Battle of Bhupalgarh

The Battle of Bhupalgarh occurred between the Mughal and Maratha empires in 1679. The battle resulted in the razing of the fort of Bhupalgarh and subsequent defeat of the Marathas under Shivaji by the Mughal forces.

Battle of Sangamner

Main article: Battle of Sangamner

The Battle of Sangamner was fought between the Mughal Empire and Maratha Empire in 1679. This was the last battle in which the Maratha King Shivaji fought. The Mughals had attacked Shivaji when he was returning from a sack on Jalna. The Marathas engaged in battle with the Mughals for three days until Maratha General, Sidhoji Nimbalkar was killed alongside 2,000 Maratha soldiers. The Marathas were largely decimated, however Shivaji managed to flee with 500 men.

Battle of Salher

Main article: Battle of Salher

The fort of Salher dominated the route between Surat and the realms of Shivaji. There was a fierce battle between the Marathas and the Mughal army.

Battle of Nesari

Main article: Prataprao Gujar

Balol Khan was sent by Adil Shah to get rid of Shivaji. So, Shivaji sent Prataprao Gujar (the then Commander-in-chief of the Maratha forces) to take care of him. This was late 1673 or 1674.

Southern Conquest

At the end of 1676, Shivaji launched a wave of conquests in southern India with a massive force of 50,000 (30,000 cavalry & 20,000 infantry). He defeated and captured the forts at Vellore and Jinji in modern-day Tamil Nadu. He also signed a friendship treaty with the Kutubshah of Golconda. These victories proved quite crucial during future wars. Jinjee served as Maratha capital for 9 years during 27 years of war.

Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj lead the Marathas in War of 27 years for the first nine years.

Battles after Shivaji

War of 27 Years

Main article: War of 27 years

War of 27 years was a series of battles fought between Marathas and Mughals from 1681 to 1707 in the Indian subcontinent.

Battle of Satara

Main article: Battle of Satara

The Battle of Satara was fought between the Mughal Empire and Maratha Empire between 1699-1700. Mughal Emperor, Aurangzeb ordered for an attack on the fort of Satara. The Mughals destroyed major parts of the fortress and Maratha commander Subhanji surrendered on April 21st, 1700.

Battle of Khelna

Main article: Battle of Khelna

The Battle of Khelna occurred between the Mughal Empire and Maratha Empire between 1701-1702. Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb ordered for the Fort of Khelna to be besieged. Mughal General Asad Khan launched an offensive and besieged the fortress. After about a three month siege, Maratha commander, Parashurampant surrendered under the condition that his life would be saved.

Battle of Torna

Main article: Battle of Torna

The Battle of Torna was fought on between the Mughal Empire and the Maratha Empire. Mughal Emperor, Aurangzeb ordered the besiegement the fortress of Torna where Mughal Generals, Muhammad Amin Khan and Tarbiyat Khan stormed into Torna and defeated the Marathas.

Battle of Raigarh

Main article: Battle of Raigarh

The Battle of Raigarh (1703-1704) was fought on between the Mughal Empire and the Maratha Empire. Mugha Emperor, Aurangzeb, ordered for Hamiduddin Khan and Tarbiyat Khan to attack the Raigarh fortress once again, which was being held by Santaji Silimkar. The Mughals devestated the fortress and inflicted massive damage on the Maratha position. Eventually the majority of the fort was captured, but the Marathas surrendered shortly after.

Battles of the Peshwa

The Peshwas controlled the Maratha army and they later became the hereditary rulers of the Maratha Empire from 1749 to 1818. During their rein, the Maratha empire reached its zenith ruling most of the Indian Subcontinent. Prior to 1700 one Peshwa received the status of king for eight or nine years. They oversaw the greatest expansion of the Maratha Empire around 1760 with the help of Sardars (Generals) like Holkar, Scindia, Bhosale, Pantpratinidhi, Gaekwad (Dhane), Panse, Vinchurkar, Wable, Pethe, Raste, Phadke, Patwardhan, Pawar, Pandit and Purandare,Pingle and also its eventual annexation by the British East India Company in 1818.

Peshwa Bajirao I

Peshwa Bajirao fought over 41 battles.

Battle of Palkhed

Main article: Battle of Palkhed

Battle of Palkhed was a land battle that took place on 28 February 1728 at the village of Palkhed, near the city of Nashik, Maharashtra, India between the Maratha Peshwa, Baji Rao I and the Nizam-ul-Mulk of Hyderabad. The Marathas defeated the Nizam.

Engraving of a Maratha Soldier by James Forbes 1813.

Battle of Mandsaur

The Battle of Mandsaur took place in Mandsaur, modern day Madhya Pradesh between Marathas, commanded by Malharrao Holkar, and Jai Singh of Rajputs, in which Jai Singh was defeated in February, 1733. Malhar Rao Holkar then conquered Bundelkhand and Bundi.

Battle of Vasai

Main article: Battle of Vasai

The Battle of Vasai was fought between the Marathas and the Portuguese rulers of Vasai, a village lying near Bombay in the present-day state of Maharashtra, India. The Marathas were led by Chimaji Appa, a brother of Peshwa Baji Rao I. Maratha victory in this war was a major achievement of Baji Rao I reign.

Battle of Delhi, 1737

Main article: First Battle of Delhi

The First Battle of Delhi took place on 28 March 1737 between Maratha Empire and the Mughals in Delhi, the Mughal capital. The Marathas were victorious in the battle and the Mughal emperor signed a treaty promising Malwa province, tributes of the region between Narmada and Chambal and 50 lakh rupees as war expenses to the Marathas.

Battle of Bhopal

Main article: Battle of Bhopal

The Battle of Bhopal was fought between the Mughal and Maratha empires near Bhopal in India in December 1737, and was arguably the largest pitched battle fought in India in the 18th century. The battle resulted in decisive Maratha victory mainly through the swift tactics of Maratha Peshwa Baji Rao. The Mughal Empire was left in a wrecked position and was unable to face the later invasion of Nadir Shah.

Raghuji Bhonsle

Battle of Trichinopolly

Main article: Siege of Trichinopoly (1741)

Raghuji Bhonsle, Maharaja of Nagpur kingdom of the Maratha Empire, was required to undertake an expedition to Karnataka at the order of Chhatrapati Shahu. It was mainly intended to punish Chanda Saheb who had usurped the kingdom of Trichinopoly by deceiving its Rani Minakshi, and was casting his eyes on the Maratha principality of Tanjore. Raja Pratapsingh of Thanjavur, Shahu's cousin, appealed to him for help when harassed by Chanda Saheb. Chhatrapati Shahu dispatched a large force under Raghuji and Fatesingh Bhonsle of Akkalkot in 1739.

In 1740, the Maratha forces came down upon Arcot. They attacked the Nawab, Dost Ali in the pass of Damalcherry. In the war that followed, Dost Ali, one of his sons Hasan Ali, and a number of prominent persons lost their lives. This initial success at once enhanced Maratha prestige in the south. From Damalcherry the Marathas proceeded to Arcot. Then, Raghuji invested Trichinopoly in December 1740.

First Battle of Katwa

Main article: First Battle of Katwa

The Battle of Katwa occurred between the Nawab of Bengal and Maratha Empire in 1742. The Maratha's initially attacked and captured Katwa and Hooghly, in Bengal. The Nawab of Bengal Ali Vardi Khan responded with a direct attack at the Maratha camp at Katwa and devastated them so much that the entire Maratha army was driven out of Bengal on September 17th, 1742.

Second Battle of Katwa

Main article: Second Battle of Katwa

The Second Battle of Katwa occurred between the Nawab of Bengal and Maratha Empire in 1745. After the initial loss of the Maratha's at the First Battle of Katwa, the Maratha General, Raghuji Bhonsle attempted, once again, to conquer Katwa. Bhonsle, with 20,000 horsemen attacked Murshidabad then moved onwards to Katwa, where Nawab of Bengal Ali Vardi Khan once again defeated Raghuji and his men, sending them out of Bengal.

Battle of Burdwan

Main article: Battle of Burdwan

The Battle of Burdwan occurred between the Nawab of Bengal and Maratha empires in 1747. After the dismissal of Mir Jafar by Ali Vardi Khan, an army was amassed to defend against the invading Maratha forces of Janoji Bhonsle at Orissa. Ali Vardi Khan managed to heavily repulse and defeat the Maratha's in this battle. However, it also open the floodgate of the Maratha expeditions in Bengal almost annually.

Expeditions in Bengal

Main article: Maratha expeditions in Bengal

After the successful campaign of Karnatak and Battle of Trichinopolly, Raghuji returned from Karnatak. He undertook six expeditions in Bengal from 1741-1748. Raghuji was able to annex Orissa to his kingdom permanently as he successfully exploited the chaotic conditions prevailing in Bengal, Bihar and Orissa after the death of their Governor Murshid Quli Khan in 1727.

Constantly harassed by the Bhonsles, Orissa or Katak, Bengal and parts of Bihar were economically ruined. Alivardi Khan made peace with Raghuji in 1751 ceding in perpetuity Katak up to the river Suvarnarekha, and agreeing to pay Rs.12 lakh annually in lieu of the Chauth of Bengal and Bihar. The smaller States of Raipur, Ratanpur, Bilaspur and Sambalpur belonging to Chhattisgad territory were conquered by Bhaskar Ram, and were placed in charge of Mohansingh, an illegitimate son of Raghuji. Towards the end of his career, Raghuji had conquered the whole of Berar; the Gond kingdoms of Devgad including Nagpur, Gadha-Mandla and Chandrapur; the Subha of Cuttack; and the smaller states spreading between Nagpur and Cuttack.

Battle of Udgir

The Battle of Udgir was fought between the Marathas under Sadashivrao Bhau and Nizam of Hyderabad in Udgirin 1760. The battle was waged by the Nizam, who wanted to take back his lost territories in Deccan. However, he completely failed in his objective and was decisively defeated. As a result of defeat, he was forced to sign a treaty with Marathas which promised to cede the Marathas the forts of Daulatabad, Sewenree, Bijapur, a part of Bidar and the subah of Aurangabad except the main city and two of its parghanas, Sittara and Harole. The territories which were to be given to Marathas yielded an annual income of 62 lakh rupees.

Holkars and Shindes

Ranoji Shinde (founder of princely Gwalior State of Shindes) had conquered territories in the Malwa and Gird regions from the Mughals, eventually establishing a state which was initially based at Ujjain, but was named after the strategic fortress of Gwalior.

Kumher fort under Maharaja Suraj Mal of Bharatpur was attacked by the Marathas on 20 January 1754 AD. They besieged the Fort till 18 May 1754. The war continued for about four months. The fort which was about to be conquered by the Marathas was saved due to the diplomatic efforts of Maharani Kishori who tried to take advantage of the internal differences between Holkars and Shindes. Diwan Roop Ram Katara was a friend of Jayappa Sindhia. Maharani Kishori requested Diwan Roop Ram Katara to take a letter from Maharaja Suraj Mal proposing a treaty. Jayappa Sindhia assured Suraj Mal of assistance and contacted Raghunathrao. Raghunathrao in turn advised Holkar to sign a treaty with Suraj Mal. Malhar Rao Holkar assessed the situation and consented for the treaty due to possibility of isolation. This led to a treaty between both rulers on 18 May 1754.

In 1740, the Marathas were successful in defeating the Nizam of Hyderabad. Mahadji Scindia (who was then aged 10) accompanied Dattajirao Shinde and Trimbak Kinnad on this campaign. In 1742, the Marathas were attacked by the Nizam of Hyderabad at Berar and Belur. Mahadji accompanied the forces sent by Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao who drove away the invaders. Between 1745 and 1761, Mahadji fought in around 50 wars, including those in Malwa, Rajputana, Bundelkhand, Brij, Doab, Rohilkhand, Delhi, Kunjpur, and in the Battle of Panipat. Among the campaigns which Mahadji assisted, the notable ones include the ones at Chandravati Ganj (1746), Fatehabad (1746), Badi Sadri (1747), Marwar (1747), and Himat Nagar (1748).

The army of Malharrao Holkar joined the Shinde army to bring all the Rajput states under Maratha control and force them to accept Maratha suzerainty, as directed by the Peshwa. Under this campaign, several city states were added to the Maratha Empire such as Medtya, Ratangarh, Lalgarh, Bikaner, Laswari, Lachhmangarh, Kumher and Deeg and the states with territory of Jaipur and Jodhpur agreed to become vassals of the Maratha Empire. All the Jat states except Bharatpur and Vijaynagar too were conquered. Mathura which was under Mughal rule was conquered by Mahadji in 1755. When the Maratha army crossed the Narmada in February 1770, the Jat king Nawal Singh of Bharatpur opposed them. However, in the battle on 6 April 1770 Mahadji defeated him and Maratha supremacy over the North was re-established. In 1777, Mahadji provided military assistance to the Peshwas against the Maratha army of Kolhapur. Mahadji besieged and attacked the town of Karvir in Kolhapur.

Capture of Delhi, 1757

Main article: Siege of Delhi, 1757

After a victorious Battle of Narela on 16 January 1757 Maratha Army lead by Antaji Mankeshwar and an advance column of Ahmad Shah Abdali's army, the Battle of Delhi was a battle fought on 11 August 1757 between Maratha Empire under the command of Raghunath Rao and Rohilla Afghans under Najib-ud-Daula. The battle was waged by the Marathas for the control of Delhi, the former Mughal capital which was now under the control of Rohilla chief Najib-ud-Daula, as a consequence of fourth invasion of Ahmad Shah Abdali. The Marathas were victorious in the battle, the Mughal capital Delhi came under Maratha control.

Maratha conquest of Northwest India

Main article: Maratha conquest of North-west India

Malharrao Holkar, Raghunathrao, Shamsher Bahadur, Gangadhar Tatya, Sakharambapu, Naroshankar and Maujiram Bania attacked Delhi on 11 August 1757 and defeated Najib Khan and Ahmed Khan became the Mir Bakshi in his place. In March, 1758, they conquered Sarhind. On 20 April 1758, Malharrao Holkar and Raghunathrao attacked and conquered Lahore. Tukojirao Holkar conquered Attock and Peshawar. In Lahore, as in Delhi, the Marathas were now major players. The Maratha Empire had reached its peak, the empire's territories covered much of South Asia. By 1760, with defeat of the Nizam in the Deccan, Maratha power under Chhatrapati Shahu reached its zenith with a territory of over 2,800,000 km2.

This was followed by the third battle of Panipat. Losses at the Third Battle of Panipat in 1761 suspended further expansion of the empire in the North-west of India and reduced the power of the Peshwas.

Third Battle of Panipat

Main article: Third battle of Panipat
Maratha Light Horseman

The Third Battle of Panipat took place on 14 January 1761 at Panipat (Haryana State, India), about 60 miles (95.5 km) north of Delhi. The battle pitted the French-supplied artillery of the Marathas against the heavy cavalry of the Afghans led by Ahmad Shah Durrani, an ethnic Pashtun, also known as Ahmad Shah Abdali. The battle is considered one of the largest battles fought in the 18th century. Marathas were defeated with heavy casualties on both sides and retreat of Maratha army and civilians from Punjab to Delhi.

Peshwa Madhavrao

Restoration of Maratha suzerainty in the North

Main article: Maratha Resurrection

Under Madhavrao Peshwa, Maratha authority in North India (including Delhi) was restored ten years after the battle of Panipat. The Rohillas were defeated and were forced to pay a heavy war indemnity. Delhi was captured by Mahadji Scindia in late 1770 and restored Mughal emperor Shah Alam to the throne of Delhi in 1772.

Battle of Alegaon

Main article: Battle of Alegaon

The Battle of Alegaon was fought between Nizam Ali Khan of Mysore and Raghunathrao of the Maratha Empire against Peshwa Madhavrao of the Maratha Empire. Raghunathrao had established an alliance with Nizam Ali Khan of Hyderabad. When conflict arose between Raghunathrao and Madhavrao I, a joint campaign between Nizam Ali Khan and Raghunathrao resulted in Madhavrao I being heavily defeated. Peshwa Madhavrao surrendered on November 12th, 1762. Nizam Ali Khan got all of his previously lost territories that were lost at the Battle of Udgir. Peshwa Madhavrao submitted to his uncle, Raghunathrao.

Battle of Rakshasbhuvan

The Battle of Rakshasbhuvan was fought on 10 August 1763. While the Marathas were fighting amongst themselves during a civil war, the Nizam decided to attack. The Nizam however failed. The Nizam gave up territory he gained during the Battle of Alegaon in an attempt to sue for peace.

Clash with Hyder Ali

Then Hyder Ali of Mysore tried to conquer the Maratha dominions in Karnataka. To frustrate Hyder's attempts, Madhavrao fought three wars against Hyder Ali between 1764–1772, in which the Marathas won.

After the death of Madhavrao, the empire gave way to a loose Confederacy, with political power resting in a 'pentarchy' of five mostly Maratha dynasties: the Peshwas of Pune; the Sindhias (originally "Shindes") of Malwa and Gwalior; the Holkars of Indore; the Bhonsles of Nagpur; and the Gaekwads of Baroda.


Defeat of Nawal Singh Jat, 1770

Mahadji Shinde defeated Nawal Singh Jat of Mathura and annihilated his power.

Capture of Delhi, 1771

Main article: Capture of Delhi, 1771

The forces of Mahadji Shinde captured Delhi in 1771 and the Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II was restored to the throne.

Marathas in Rohilkhand

After taking control of Delhi, Marathas sent a large army in 1772 to “punish” Afghan Rohillas for Panipat. Maratha army devastated Rohilkhand by looting and plundering and also took the members of royal family as captives.

Battle of Saunshi

Main article: Battle of Saunshi

Hyder Ali of Mysore attempted to try to regain his lost territories of Malabar and Coorg from the Marathas. Tipu Sultan who was the Emperor of Mysore decided to attack the Marathas at Saunshi. Tipu Sultan decided to send his General, Muhammad Ali to attack the Maratha position. The result of the battle was a victory for Mysore against the Maratha forces. Maratha Chief Konher Rao was killed and Padurang Rao was caught by the Mysore forces.

Later Mughal-Maratha Conflicts

Battle of Chaksana

Main article: Battle of Chaksana

The Battle of Chaksana occurred between the Mughal and Maratha empires in 1788. The battle ended with the Maratha's retreating.

Interregnum

First Anglo Maratha War (1775 - 1783)

Main article: First Anglo-Maratha War

Battle of Wadgaon

Main article: Battle of Wadgaon

The East India Company's force from Bombay consisted of about 3,900 men (about 600 Europeans, the rest Asian) accompanied by many thousands of servants and specialist workers. They were joined on the way by Raghunath's forces, adding several thousand more soldiers, and more artillery. The Maratha army included forces contributed by all the partners in the federation, tens of thousands in all, commanded by Tukojirao Holkar and General Mahadji Shinde (also known as Mahadji Sindia). Mahadji slowed down the British march and sent forces west to cut off its supply lines. When they found out about this, the British halted at Talegaon, a few hours' brisk march from Pune, but days away for the thousands of support staff with their ox-drawn carts. Now the Maratha cavalry harassed the enemy from all sides. The Marathas also utilized a scorched earth policy, burning farmland and poisoning wells. The British began to withdraw from Talegaon in the middle of the night, but the Marathas attacked, forcing them to halt in the village of Wadgaon (now called Vadgaon or Vadgaon Maval), where the British force was surrounded on 12 January 1779. By the end of the next day, the British were ready to discuss surrender terms, and on 16 January signed the Treaty of Wadgaon that forced the Bombay government to relinquish all territories acquired by the Bombay office of the East India Company since 1773.

Clash with Tipu Sultan

Main article: Battle of Gajendragad

The Battle of Gajendragad was fought between the Marathas under the command of Tukojirao Holkar (the adopted son of Malharrao Holkar) and Tipu Sultan from March 1786 to March 1787 in which Tipu Sultan was defeated by the Marathas. By the victory in this battle, the border of the Maratha territory extended till Tungabhadra river.

Battle of Patan

Main article: Battle of Patan

The Battle of Patan was fought on June 20, 1790 between the Maratha Empire and the Rajputs of Jaipur and their Mughal allies. Many Rajput kingdoms like those of Jaipur and Malwa were threatened by the Marathas. In early 1790, hoping to completely rid the Rajputana off Maratha interference, Rajput nobility allied with Mughal general Ismail Beg. Marathas crushed the allied Rajput-Mughal army. The European armed and trained Marathas conquered the Rajput states one after the other. Marathas managed to conquer Ajmer and Malwa from Rajputs. Marathas recovered over 105 pieces of artillery from the enemy, along with 21 elephants, 1300 camels and 300 horses. Rajputs lost over 5 battalions and 3000 Rathore horsemen.

Battle of Medtya, 1790

Main article: Battle of Medtya

The forces of Mahadji Shinde under de Boigne routed the Marwar army.

Capture of Ajmer, 1790

The forces of Mahadji Shinde captured Ajmer.


Capture of Shimoga

Main article: Capture of Shimoga

The Capture of Shimoga, a town and fortress held by forces of the Kingdom of Mysore, occurred on 3 January 1792 after a preliminary battle with the attacking forces of the British East India Company and the Marathas not far from the town on 29 December had scattered much of its defending army. The defenders surrendered after the fort's walls were breached. The battle was part of a campaign during the Third Anglo-Mysore War by Maratha leader Purseram Bhow to recover Maratha territories taken by Hyder Ali in an earlier conflict between Mysore and the Marathas. By the end of the siege Reza Sahib a leading Mysore commander was among the captured.

Battle of Kharda

Main article: Battle of Kharda

The Battle of Kharda took place in February 1795 between the Nizam of Hyderabad, Asaf Jah II and Peshwa Madhavrao II, in which Nizam was badly defeated. Governor General John Shore followed the policy of non-intervention despite that Nizam was under his protection. So this led to the loss of trust with British and rout of the Hyderabad army. This was the last battle fought together by all Maratha warlords.


Second Anglo Maratha War (1803 - 1805)

Main article: Second Anglo-Maratha War

Battle of Delhi, 1803

Main article: Battle of Delhi, 1803

The Battle of Delhi took place on 11 September 1803 during the Second Anglo-Maratha War, between British troops under General Lake, and Marathas of Scindia's army under French General Louis Bourquin. The battle was fought at Patparganj, right across Yamuna River from Humayun's Tomb, also giving the battle its local name.

The Marathas occupied a strong position with the Jumna in their rear, and Lake, feigning a retreat, drew them from their lines, and then turning upon them drove them with the bayonet into the river, inflicting more losses upon them. The city of Delhi surrendered three days later. A monument was later erected at the site in Patparganj, marked out by a surrounding ditch, commemorating Cornet Sanguine and British soldiers who fell during the battle.

Yashwantrao Holkar

See also: Battle of Bharatpur

Maharaja Yashwantrao Holkar defeated the British army, led by Colonel Fawcett, at Kunch, in Bundelkhand. On 8 June 1804, the Governor General, in a letter to Lord Lake, wrote that the defeat caused a great insult to the British prestige in India. On 8 July 1804, Maharaja Yashwantrao Holkar defeated the army of Colonel Manson and Leukan at Mukundare and Kota. Bapuji Scindia surrendered before Maharaja Yashwantrao Holkar. From June till September 1804, he defeated the British at different battles. On 8 October 1804, Maharaja Yashwantrao Holkar attacked Delhi to free Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II, who was imprisoned by the British. He attacked the army of Colonel Actorloni and Berne. The battle lasted for a week, but Yashwantrao Holkar could not succeed as Lord Lake came to help Colonel Actorloni.

On 16 November 1804, Maharaja Yashwantrao Holkar reached Deeg by defeating the army of Major Frazer. After the death of Major Frazer, Manson took the charge of the British army. In Farrukhabad, Lord Lake was a mute spectator, watching Yashwantrao Holkar proceeding towards Deeg; he didn't attack Maharaja Yashwantrao Holkar. Lord Lake attacked Deeg on 13 December 1804 (see- Battle of Bharatpur); the army of Holkar and Jat resisted successfully and reached the Bharatpur Durg. Lord Lake attacked Bharatpur on 3 January 1805, along with General Manson, Colonel Marey, Colonel Don, Colonel Berne, Major General Jones, General Smith, Colonel Jetland, Setan, and others. However, Maharaja Yashwantrao Holkar had to leave Bharatpur as the Jat King Ranjit Singh of Bharatpur signed a treaty with the British on 17 April 1805, when they had nearly won the war.

Covering a large part of the subcontinent, the Maratha Empire kept the British forces at bay during the 18th century, until dissension between the Peshwas and their sardars (army commanders) saw a gradual downfall of the empire with the eventual defeat in the third Anglo-Maratha war the First Anglo-Maratha War ended in a stalemate with both sides signing the treaty of Salbai. This led to a period of relative peace between the two powers till the decisive second Anglo-Maratha war took place.

Third Anglo-Maratha War

Main article: Third Anglo-Maratha War

The Third Anglo-Maratha War (1817–1818) was the final and decisive conflict between the British East India Company and the Maratha Empire in India. The war left the Company in control of most of India. It began with an invasion of Maratha territory by 110,400 British East India Company troops, the largest such British controlled force amassed in India. The troops were led by the Governor General Hastings and he was supported by a force under General Thomas Hislop. It resulted in the formal end of the Maratha empire and firm establishment of the British East India Company in entire India.

See also

References

  1. Jacques, Tony. Dictionary of Battles and Sieges. Greenwood Press. p. 220. ISBN 978-0-313-33536-5.
  2. Jacques, Tony. Dictionary of Battles and Sieges. Greenwood Press. p. 825. ISBN 978-0-313-33536-5.
  3. Jacques, Tony. Dictionary of Battles and Sieges. Greenwood Press. p. 505. ISBN 978-0-313-33536-5.
  4. ^ Jacques, Tony. Dictionary of Battles and Sieges. Greenwood Press. p. 137. ISBN 978-0-313-33536-5. Cite error: The named reference "bhupalgarh" was defined multiple times with different content (see the help page).
  5. Jacques, Tony. Dictionary of Battles and Sieges. Greenwood Press. p. 825. ISBN 978-0-313-33536-5.
  6. Rana, Bhawan Singh. Chhatrapati Shivaji. Diamond Pocket Books Ltd. p. 100. {{cite book}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |1= (help)
  7. Dictionary of Battles and Sieges P-Z, p.888
  8. Jacques, Tony. Dictionary of Battles and Sieges. "Sindhia was defeated in a bloody three-day battle at Tunga, near Lalsot". Greenwood Press. p. 915. ISBN 978-0-313-33536-5.
  9. Jacques, Tony. Dictionary of Battles and Sieges. Greenwood Press. p. 525. ISBN 978-0-313-33536-5.
  10. Jacques, Tony. Dictionary of Battles and Sieges. Greenwood Press. p. 1026. ISBN 978-0-313-33536-5. {{cite book}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |1= (help)
  11. Jacques, Tony. Dictionary of Battles and Sieges. Greenwood Press. p. 837. ISBN 978-0-313-33536-5. {{cite book}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |1= (help)
  12. P. K. Sethi, S. K. Bhatt, R. Holkar., A study of Holkar state coinage, page 32
  13. ^ Jacques, Tony. Dictionary of Battles and Sieges. Greenwood Press. p. 516. ISBN 978-0-313-33536-5.
  14. Jaswant Lal Mehta (2005). Advanced study in the history of modern India 1707-1813. Sterling Publishers Pvt. Ltd. p. 225. ISBN 1-932705-54-6.
  15. ^ Jacques, Tony. Dictionary of Battles and Sieges. Greenwood Press. p. 27. ISBN 978-0-313-33536-5.
  16. General on 12-November-1762 {{citation}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |1= (help)
  17. "History - Maratha Period". Nasik District Gazetteer. Retrieved 4 September 2010.
  18. ^ Jacques, Tony. Dictionary of Battles and Sieges. Greenwood Press. p. 838. ISBN 978-0-313-33536-5.
  19. http://books.google.co.in/books?id=uPq640stHJ0C&pg=PA8&lpg=PA8&dq=1771+scindia&source=bl&ots=Ohxv9jrPpo&sig=gdLcPTomT2FOmazdsOmytJmiiFE&hl=en&sa=X&ei=JF2_T_PEF8PYrQfPkNW2CQ&ved=0CE4Q6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=1771%20scindia&f=false
  20. Jacques, Tony. Dictionary of Battles and Sieges. Greenwood Press. p. 979. ISBN 978-0-313-33536-5.
  21. Jacques, Tony. Dictionary of Battles and Sieges. Greenwood Press. p. 220. ISBN 978-0-313-33536-5.
  22. Beveridge, Henry A Comprehensive History of India, London, Blackie (1862), via Google Books, accessed 2008-01-27

Further reading

Maratha Confederacy
Chhatrapatis
Peshwas
Amatya & Pratinidhi
Women
Maratha Confederacy
Battles
Wars
Adversaries
Forts
Coins
Categories:
List of battles involving the Maratha Confederacy: Difference between revisions Add topic