The rising power of the Marathas in the south-west posed the real danger to the Mughal Empire. Shivaji attained glory among the Marathas as he could stop the Mughal Empire's expansion in the Deccan. As the Marathas grew stronger, the Mughal Empire weakened, and the Mughal Emperor had to recognise the right of the Marathas to collect their Chauth tax all over the Deccan. From the time of Shahu, the prime minister of the Maratha rulers, called the Peshwa, held real power. The Peshwas continued their supremacy until 1761.
1. Factors Responsible for the Rise of the Marathas
Geographical Features
- The physical features of the Maratha country developed certain peculiar qualities among the Marathas, which distinguished them from the rest of the people of India.
- During the sixteenth century, the sultans of Bijapur and Ahmednagar recruited them to serve in the cavalry. Their presence helped the sultans balance the political ambitions of the Muslim soldiers in their service.
- The rocky and mountainous terrain gave protection to the Marathas from invaders and proved advantageous in guerrilla warfare.