The invasion of Malwa by Peshwa Bajirao and Chimaji Appa on the advice of Sawai Jai Singh opened up new avenues for the Marathas and the Rajputs who were dissatisfied with the Mughals. The Bundelas in particular had been friendly with the Marathas for a long time and adopted their approach to fight for their independence.... Continue Reading →
On the history trail: Battle of Amjhera
The military stratagem displayed by Peshwa Bajirao under difficult conditions in Palkhed proved his ability to take on a war veteran like the Nizam with relative ease. This notable victory helped the Peshwa secure the confidence of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj and others. Peshwa had already formed his own group of faithful followers both in the... Continue Reading →
On the history trail: Battle of Palkhed
With opposition building on all fronts, Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj was at his wit's end. Peshwa Bajirao was still in the Karnatak and those close to him advised him to effect a compromise with the Nizam. Shahu Raje accepted their advice and instructed his Pratinidhi and Sumant to negotiate a peace treaty with the Nizam. The Pratinidhi proposed a... Continue Reading →
On the history trail: Nizam-ul-Mulk challenges Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj
The three years from February 1725 to February 1728 (Battle of Shakar Kheda to Palkhed) fairly established the nature of the relationship between the Marathas and the Nizam that would eventually be subjected to the paramountcy of the British. The Marathas were determined to enforce the rights granted to them in 1719. However, the... Continue Reading →
On the history trail: Peshwa Bajirao’s expedition to the Karnatak
The decisive win for Nizam-ul-Mulk over Mubariz Khan in the Battle of Sakhar Kherda established his undisputed dominance over the Deccan. The Marathas had been watching the battle on the sidelines with keen interest knowing full well that the Nizam's victory would dent their prospects of expansion in the south. Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj was... Continue Reading →