The third battle of Panipat took place on January 14, 1761, in Panipat, Haryana, India. It was fought between the Marathas, led by the Peshwa Balaji Bajirao, and the Durrani Empire, led by Ahmad Shah Abdali. The battle was a significant event in Indian history and had far-reaching consequences.


- The correct answer to the question is option 'A' - Ahmad Shah Abdali. He was the ruler of the Durrani Empire, which covered parts of present-day Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iran.
- Ahmad Shah Abdali was an experienced military strategist and had previously fought against the Marathas in the Battle of Panipat in 1758. In that battle, the Marathas emerged victorious.
- After his defeat in 1758, Abdali regrouped his forces and launched a fresh campaign against the Marathas in 1761. He assembled a formidable army consisting of Afghan, Rohilla, and Mughal soldiers.


- The Marathas, on the other hand, were a powerful Hindu empire ruling over large parts of India. They had a strong cavalry and were known for their guerrilla warfare tactics.
- The battle started with a series of skirmishes and artillery exchanges. The Marathas initially gained an advantage by successfully repelling Abdali's attacks.
- However, Abdali's forces regrouped and launched a massive assault on the Marathas. They employed a combination of heavy cavalry charges, artillery fire, and infantry attacks.
- The battle lasted for several hours and was characterized by intense fighting and heavy casualties on both sides. The Marathas fought valiantly but were eventually overwhelmed by the superior strategy and firepower of Abdali's forces.


- The Marathas suffered a crushing defeat in the battle. Estimates of their casualties vary, but it is believed that they lost around 100,000 soldiers, including their top commanders.
- The defeat had a profound impact on the Maratha Empire. It weakened their military power and shattered their dreams of expanding their empire further.
- The battle also marked the beginning of the end of Maratha dominance in India. It paved the way for the rise of British colonial power in the country.
- Ahmad Shah Abdali, on the other hand, emerged as the victor and returned to his empire with immense wealth and prestige.
- The third battle of Panipat is considered one of the bloodiest battles in Indian history and had a significant impact on the subsequent political and military events in the region.