Table of contents |
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Who Are the Marathas? |
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Foundation of Maratha Power and the Rise of Shivaji |
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The Marathas After Shivaji |
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Maratha Administration |
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Cultural Revival |
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The Marathas are a Marathi-speaking people from Maharashtra with a rich cultural heritage linked to the Bhakti movement. They emerged as a political force under Shivaji in the 17th century.
Shivaji Bhonsle founded the Maratha Empire with his vision of Swarajya (self-rule), effective guerrilla warfare, and naval power, crowned in 1674.
The empire continued under Shivaji’s successors, who resisted Mughal onslaught and expanded the kingdom, leading to the rise of the Peshwas.
Shivaji's administration laid a strong foundation for a centralised and efficient government blending civilian and military governance while promoting maritime strength and justice.
A centralised government system was established with salaried officials, transfers to prevent power concentration, and caring policies for soldiers' families.
The Maratha military comprised infantry, cavalry (bargirs and shiledars), navy, and adopted European-style artillery and disciplined troops by the 18th century.
A strong navy established by Shivaji, led later by Kanhoji Angre, protected the west coast and challenged European naval powers.
The Marathas had a fair judicial system with local panchayats managing justice, overseen by chiefs, and maintaining law and order in towns.
Shivaji promoted trade with a strong navy, built infrastructure, and maintained land and river transport networks.
Shivaji’s leadership sparked a cultural resurgence that promoted Marathi and Sanskrit languages, revived Hindu traditions, and inspired arts and religious practices.
The Maratha rule in Thanjavur blended Tamil, Telugu, and Marathi cultures and boosted arts, literature, and medical innovation.
The Marathas built the largest empire in India before British rule, reviving local governance, Hindu traditions, and sparking pride in self-rule.
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1. Who were the key figures in the establishment of Maratha power under Shivaji? | ![]() |
2. What were the main strategies employed by Shivaji in expanding the Maratha Empire? | ![]() |
3. How did the Maratha administration function after Shivaji's reign? | ![]() |
4. What cultural contributions did the Marathas make during their rule? | ![]() |
5. What was the significance of the Maratha Empire in Indian history? | ![]() |