Introduction:
After the death of Sambhaji, the Marathas continued their national war against the Mughals. Under the leadership of various leaders, they fought to expand their territory and assert their dominance over the Mughal Empire. One prominent leader who played a crucial role in leading the Marathas during this period was Sahu.

Role of Sahu:
Sahu, also known as Shahu or Shambhu Raje, was the grandson of Shivaji and the son of Sambhaji. He ascended to the throne in 1707 after the death of his father and became the Chhatrapati, the titular head of the Maratha Empire. Despite being a young ruler, Sahu showed remarkable leadership skills and played a pivotal role in continuing the Maratha resistance against the Mughals.

Extending Maratha Influence:
Under the leadership of Sahu, the Marathas launched several military campaigns to extend their influence and challenge the Mughal authority. Sahu formed alliances with various regional powers and skillfully utilized guerrilla warfare tactics to keep the Mughals on their toes. He sought to expand the boundaries of the Maratha Empire and establish a strong presence in the Deccan region.

Alliance with the Rajputs:
One of the key strategies employed by Sahu was forming alliances with other regional powers, particularly the Rajputs. He recognized the common threat posed by the Mughals and sought the support of Rajput rulers to strengthen the Maratha resistance. This alliance helped the Marathas in their military campaigns and provided them with a broader base of support.

Continued Resistance:
Sahu's leadership ensured that the Marathas did not back down in their fight against the Mughals. Despite facing several challenges, including the death of key leaders and internal conflicts, Sahu remained committed to the cause. He inspired his troops and rallied the Maratha forces to continue their national war against the Mughal Empire.

Role in Diplomacy:
Apart from military campaigns, Sahu also played a crucial role in diplomatic negotiations with the Mughals. He engaged in talks with Mughal officials and sought favorable terms for the Marathas. While the negotiations were often complex and challenging, Sahu's diplomatic efforts helped in maintaining a balance of power and securing certain concessions for the Marathas.

Conclusion:
Sahu's leadership was instrumental in the continuation of the Maratha national war against the Mughals. Through military campaigns, alliances with regional powers, and diplomatic negotiations, he ensured that the Marathas remained firmly committed to their cause. Sahu's efforts played a significant role in shaping the course of Maratha history and asserting their dominance over the Mughal Empire. Thus, it is evident that Sahu, not Tara Bai or Raja Ram, led the Marathas in their war against the Mughals after Sambhaji's death.