Ahmad Shah Abdali -
* Founder of Durrani Empire.
* Regarded as founder of modern state of
Afghanistan.
* In July 1747, he was appointed as the king of
Afghanistan.
His role in 3rd Battle of Panipat:
* The 3rd Battle of Panipat in 14 January, 1761
occurred in Panipat between Maratha empire and
the invading army of Ahmad Shah Abdali in which
the Marathas were defeated.

Ahmed Shah Abdali, also known as Ahmad Shah Durrani, was the founder and ruler of the Durrani Empire in present-day Afghanistan. He played a significant role in the Third Battle of Panipat, which took place on January 14, 1761, in Panipat, Haryana, India.

Background:
- The battle was fought between the Marathas, led by their commander-in-chief, Sadashivrao Bhau, and the combined forces of Ahmed Shah Abdali and other regional powers.
- Abdali had previously invaded India in 1748 and 1756, and this was his third major invasion.

Role in the Battle:
- Abdali's primary motive for invading India was to recapture the territories lost to the Mughals and restore his authority.
- The Marathas had expanded their empire in North India and were seen as a threat by Abdali as they were encroaching on territories that he considered his own.
- Abdali formed a coalition with regional powers like the Nawab of Awadh, the Rohillas, and the Nizam of Hyderabad to confront the Marathas.
- During the battle, Abdali's forces were well-organized and had superior artillery, cavalry, and infantry.
- Abdali himself was an experienced military leader and had a reputation for his tactics and discipline.
- He strategically positioned his troops and launched a series of attacks on the Marathas, causing heavy casualties.
- Abdali's forces successfully defeated the Marathas and inflicted a severe blow to their empire.
- The battle resulted in a significant loss of life on both sides, and estimates suggest that the Marathas suffered around 100,000 casualties, while Abdali's forces lost approximately 20,000 soldiers.

Outcome:
- The Third Battle of Panipat was a turning point in Indian history as it marked the decline of the Maratha Empire.
- The defeat weakened the Marathas, and their empire gradually disintegrated, paving the way for British colonial rule in India.
- Abdali returned to Afghanistan after the battle and did not attempt any further invasions of India.
- The battle also highlighted the military prowess of Ahmed Shah Abdali and established his reputation as a formidable military leader.

In conclusion, Ahmed Shah Abdali played a crucial role in the Third Battle of Panipat. His military skills, strategic planning, and alliance with regional powers enabled him to defeat the Marathas and establish his dominance. The battle had far-reaching consequences for Indian history, leading to the decline of the Maratha Empire and the eventual British colonization of India.