A comprehensive overview of the last phase of Aurangzeb's reign and its ramifications for the Marathas and Deccan.
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Aurangzeb and the Maratha Conflict: The Final Phase of Deccan Conquest (1687-1707)
Targeting the Marathas: Aurangzeb's Military Focus (1687-1689)
Following the fall of Bijapur and Golconda, Aurangzeb concentrated his military efforts on defeating the Marathas.
In 1689, the capture and execution of Sambhaji galvanized Maratha resistance, leading to a resurgence under his brother Rajaram.
Rajaram continued the fight from Jinji, spreading Maratha defiance throughout the Deccan.
Aurangzeb at His Peak: Strategic Missteps and Consolidation (1690)
At the height of his power, Aurangzeb triumphed over his adversaries but ignored counsel to withdraw or delegate control in the Deccan.
He imprisoned his son Shah Alam for negotiating with Deccani rulers, convinced that Maratha strength was vanquished.
Aurangzeb's focus shifted to annexing Karnataka, ultimately stretching his resources thin.
The Siege of Jinji: A Turning Point in Maratha Resistance (1690-1698)
Aurangzeb besieged Jinji, where Rajaram was taking refuge, refusing to enter negotiations with the Marathas.
Jinji fell in 1698, but Rajaram escaped, reigniting Maratha resistance and leading to significant losses for the Mughals.
Rajaram's return to Satara bolstered Maratha efforts against Mughal advances.
The Long Struggle: Mughal Demoralization and Resistance (1700-1705)
From 1700 to 1705, Aurangzeb faced a grueling campaign of fort sieges, suffering from floods, disease, and Maratha counterattacks.
The Mughal army's morale plummeted, leading to secret pacts between many nobles and the Marathas.
Failed Diplomacy: Aurangzeb's Negotiations with the Marathas (1703)
In 1703, Aurangzeb proposed negotiations with the Marathas, offering to release Shahu and recognize Maratha rights in the Deccan.
Despite the assembly of 70 Maratha leaders, Aurangzeb canceled the agreement at the last moment, fearing treachery.
Retreat and Decline: The End of Aurangzeb's Reign (1706-1707)
By 1706, Aurangzeb acknowledged the futility of capturing every Maratha fort and began a strategic retreat to Aurangabad.
His death in 1707 left behind a fractured empire, struggling with growing internal challenges and Maratha resilience.
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