Critically evaluate the Mughal Maratha relations.

The Mughal-Maratha relations during the 17th and 18th centuries were characterized by a complex interplay of cooperation, conflict, and diplomatic maneuvering. The interactions between the Mughal Empire and the Marathas, a rising power in the Deccan, shaped the political landscape of India during this period.

Cooperation and Diplomacy:

1. Aurangzeb and Shivaji: In the early 17th century, Emperor Aurangzeb and the Maratha warrior-king Shivaji engaged in both military conflicts and diplomatic negotiations. Shivaji initially acknowledged Mughal suzerainty but asserted his autonomy. The Treaty of Purandar in 1665 temporarily restored a semblance of peace, with Shivaji agreeing to become a Mughal vassal.

2. Shahu and the Mughals: The Mughal-Maratha relations saw a period of relative stability under Aurangzeb's successor, Bahadur Shah I. However, after Aurangzeb's death in 1707, the War of Succession weakened the Mughal central authority. Shahu, the grandson of Shivaji, capitalized on this instability to assert Maratha autonomy. The Treaty of Warna in 1707 recognized Shahu as the legitimate ruler and established a modus vivendi between the Mughals and Marathas.

Conflict and Expansion:

1. Maratha Raids: The Marathas, led by their military commanders such as Santaji Ghorpade and Dhanaji Jadhav, undertook numerous raids into Mughal territories, particularly in the Deccan. These military campaigns aimed at securing Maratha interests and extracting chauth and sardeshmukhi (tribute) from Mughal territories.

2. Mughal Attempts to Subjugate the Marathas: The Mughal emperors, notably Aurangzeb and later rulers, attempted to bring the Marathas under their control. Aurangzeb's Deccan campaigns and the subsequent efforts of later Mughal emperors aimed at subjugating the Marathas were met with strong Maratha resistance.

3. Panipat Battles: The Battles of Panipat were significant military encounters between the Mughals and the Marathas. The Third Battle of Panipat in 1761, where the Marathas suffered a decisive defeat at the hands of Ahmad Shah Durrani, marked a crucial turning point. The loss weakened Maratha power and influence, altering the dynamics of Mughal-Maratha relations.

Complex Alliances:

1. Mughal-Maratha Collaboration Against Nizam: In the early 18th century, the Mughals and Marathas occasionally formed alliances against common enemies, such as the Nizam of Hyderabad. This demonstrated the pragmatic approach both sides took in pursuing their interests.

2. Internal Factionalism: Both the Mughals and the Marathas grappled with internal factionalism and power struggles. This internal instability often influenced their external relations. The Mughals faced challenges from regional governors and power centers, while the Marathas contended with internal rivalries and leadership disputes.

Legacy:

The Mughal-Maratha relations left a lasting impact on the political map of India. The decline of the Mughal Empire and the rise of the Marathas as a major power in the Deccan contributed to the fragmentation of political authority. The Marathas established their dominance in large parts of Central and Western India, while the Mughal Empire faced a protracted decline.

In conclusion, the Mughal-Maratha relations were characterized by a complex mix of cooperation, conflict, and strategic maneuvering. While there were periods of collaboration and pragmatic alliances, the overall trajectory witnessed increasing tension and military confrontations. The dynamics of Mughal-Maratha relations played a crucial role in shaping the political landscape of India and laid the groundwork for subsequent regional powers during the later years of the Mughal Empire.