A comprehensive overview of the emergence of powerful states in the Deccan region, post-victory rivalries, Mughal influence, and the rise of the Marathas.
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The Deccan and South India (Up to 1656)
Emergence of Powerful States
Following the breakup of the Bahmani kingdom, three powerful states—Ahmadnagar, Bijapur, and Golconda—emerged.
They combined forces to crush Vijayanagara at the Battle of Bannihatti, near Talikota, in 1565.
Post-Victory Rivalries
After the victory, Ahmadnagar and Bijapur resumed their rivalry, both claiming Sholapur, a rich and fertile tract.
Neither wars nor marriage alliances between the two states could resolve the issue.
Territorial Ambitions
Ahmadnagar aimed to annex Berar in the north, claiming superiority as descendants of the old Bahmani rulers.
Their claims were contested by Bijapur and the rulers of Gujarat, who eyed the rich Konkan area and Berar.
Bijapur and Golconda clashed over Naldurg.
Mughal Influence and Conquests
The Mughal conquest of Gujarat in 1572 created a new situation.
Although it could have been a prelude to the Mughal conquest of the Deccan, Akbar was busy elsewhere and did not interfere.
Ahmadnagar took advantage to annex Berar, agreeing with Bijapur to expand south at Vijayanagara's expense.
Golconda also aimed to extend its territories at Vijayanagara's cost.
Rise of the Marathas
The Marathas grew in importance in Deccan affairs, serving as loose auxiliaries or bargirs in the Bahmani kingdom.
Local revenue affairs were managed by Deccani Brahmans, with powerful Maratha zamindars or deshmukhs rising in prominence.
Policy Towards the Marathas
By the mid-16th century, Deccan rulers sought to win over the Marathas, offering them service and positions in leading states.
Ibrahim Adil Shah of Bijapur, who ascended in 1535, was a leading advocate, employing 30,000 Maratha auxiliaries and favoring them in the revenue system.
Prominent Maratha Families
Old Maratha families like the More, Nimbalkar, and Ghatge rose to prominence under the Bahmani rulers, holding mansabs and jagirs.
New families like the Bhonsales (Ghorpade) and Dafles (Chavans) also gained prominence due to Bijapur's policies.
Maharashtrian Brahmans played key roles in diplomacy, with the title of Peshwa given to a Brahman, Kankoji Naik, by Ahmadnagar's rulers.
Influence on Mughal Policies
The Deccani rulers' policy of allying with local landed classes influenced the Mughals under Akbar, highlighting the importance of military-minded local alliances.
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