Treaty Of Purandar ( 1665 )

The Treaty of Purandar was a pivotal moment in the history of the Maratha and Mughal Empires in India, significantly altering their relationship. 

Key Figures

1. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj: The visionary founder of the Maratha Empire, known for his defiance against Mughal encroachment in the Deccan.

2. Mirza Raja Jai Singh I: A respected Mughal commander and Rajput ruler of Amber, tasked by  Aurangzeb with quelling Shivaji's rebellion.

3. Aurangzeb: The ruler of the Mughal Empire, intent on expanding his dominion over the Deccan region, including Maratha lands.

Pre-Treaty Context:-

- Rising Tensions: Aurangzeb's ambition to control the Deccan put him on a collision course with Shivaji, who had established a formidable power base in the Western Ghats.

- Maratha Resistance: Shivaji's raids and guerilla tactics constantly challenged Mughal authority, making him a persistent nuisance to the empire.

- Military Campaigns: By 1665, Jai Singh led a determined military campaign against the Marathas, capturing several forts and forcing Shivaji into a difficult position.

Treaty Provisions

- Territorial Concessions: Shivaji agreed to surrender 23 forts and their surrounding lands, including some strategically important areas.

- Vassalage: Shivaji agreed to serve as a vassal to the Mughal Empire and sent his son, Sambhaji, to the Mughal court as a gesture of loyalty.

-Compensation and Recognition: In return, Shivaji received certain jagirs (land grants) and was recognized as a Mughal noble.

- Retention of Forts: Shivaji retained control of 12 forts, allowing him to maintain a strategic foothold.

After the Treaty-

- Temporary Peace: The treaty brought a brief period of calm between the Marathas and the Mughals.

- Mughal Strategy: Jai Singh and the Mughal administration saw the treaty as a way to manage the Maratha threat without engaging in prolonged warfare.

- Shivaji’s Strategy: Shivaji used the peace to rebuild his strength, quietly preparing for future conflicts.

Casualties-

- Military Losses: The lead-up to the treaty involved significant casualties from numerous battles and fort-sieges.

- Civilian Impact: The conflict disrupted daily life for civilians, leading to economic hardship and displacement.

 Long-Term Impact-

- Maratha Revival: The treaty gave Shivaji the respite he needed to regroup. He soon resumed his campaigns, reclaiming much of the lost territory.

- Decline of Oppressive Mughal Power: The treaty was a short-term fix for the Mughals. Over time, the Marathas grew stronger, while Mughal power gradually waned, contributing to the eventual decline of Mughal dominance in India.

- Shivaji’s Legacy: The events around the Treaty of Purandar cemented Shivaji's reputation as a shrewd and resilient leader, inspiring future generations of the Maratha Empire.

The Treaty of Purandar is a testament between the Marathas and the Mughals, showcasing Shivaji's strategic brilliance and the challenges the Mughal Empire faced in controlling the Deccan.