When we discuss about Maratha history, we talk about its brave warrior king and founder Shivaji Bhonsle. We also talk about the numerous battles that Marathas won and how they went on the build a vast empire. Today, we will look at some other important aspects about the history of Marathas like administration, navy and military that laid the foundation of this great empire. Administration of Maratha Empire Shivaji Maharaj established the idea of Ashtapradhan or the Council of Eight which looked after the administration of the empire effectively. Pantpradhan or Peshwa was like the present-day Prime Minister who handled general administration. Amatya or Mazumdar was the Finance Minister who was responsible for managing accounts. The Sachiv or Secretary prepared royal edicts. The Mantri or Interior Minister managed internal affairs like intelligence and espionage. Senapati was the Commander-in-Chief who led the defense forces. Sumant was the Foreign Minister who managed relationships with other independent territories. Nyayadhyaksh was the Chief Justice who looked into the judicial matters and crime. And Panditrao was the High Priest who conducted important religious ceremonies. Apart from Panditrao and Nyayadisha, all other ministers were military commanders as well. Their deputies managed their civil duties in their absence. Towards the end of Maratha history, these deputy ministers and their men became an integral part of Peshwa’s court. The Peshwas played a vital role in the history of Marathas when the empire was growing. Before 1749, Peshwas served a term of 8 to 9 years and also managed Maratha Army. They eventually became hereditary administrators of the Maratha Empire from 1749 to 1818. Other Factors that made Maratha Empire Powerful The Marathas accepted and respected all religions. Many of the important administrators and military commanders in the history of Maratha Empire were Muslims. Shivaji Maharaj was himself a very able administrator. Be it punishing criminals, welfare of people, awarding meritorious soldiers or leading military campaigns, he performed his duties with utmost dedication and honesty. His earned tremendous respect, trust and love from his people as well, making him the greatest king in the history of Maratha Empire. Maratha Empire history is also known for its accounts of attacks and loots on Mughal pilgrim ships and European trading vessels as they were financially supporting Mughals and Bijapur Sultanate indirectly. With the help of a network of sea forts and warrior ships, Marathas build an extremely powerful Navy to protect the western coast of India. That’s the reason why they are called as the father of Indian Navy. To build a big empire through military conquests is not very difficult, but to nurture a growing empire for over hundred years is truly exceptional.
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AuthorPassionate collector of coins, banknotes & stamps who loves researching about ancient, medieval & modern Indian history! Archives
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