Explore Aurangzeb's early relations with Deccani states, his rivalry with Shivaji Maharaj, and the Treaty of Purandar. Discover Shivaji's rise, administration, military strategies, and the Mughal-Maratha conflicts shaping medieval Indian history.
Aurangzeb's Deccan Policy
The Deccan policy of Aurangzeb during the mid-17th century was marked by strategic challenges, conflicts with Shivaji, and political struggles with Bijapur. These events highlight Mughal administrative weaknesses and Jai Singh’s forward policy, which shaped the Deccan campaigns. This topic is highly relevant for students preparing for competitive exams as it explains the Mughal-Maratha struggle and its impact on Indian history.
Aurangzeb’s Deccan Policy and Mughal-Maratha Struggle in the 1660s
Aurangzeb faced multiple challenges in the Deccan after coming to the throne.
The Deccan became a center of Mughal strategic interest due to the rise of Shivaji and the issue of territories ceded under the Treaty of 1636.
(i) The two major problems were Shivaji’s growing power and Bijapur’s unwillingness to surrender territories.
(ii) Territories like Kalyani, Bidar, and Parenda were secured earlier, but Sholapur remained contested.
(iii) These issues set the stage for intense Mughal-Maratha conflicts.
Aurangzeb’s Underestimation of the Marathas
Aurangzeb’s miscalculation of the Deccan problem played a critical role in prolonging the conflict.
Aurangzeb’s Miscalculation
(i) He ordered Jai Singh to act against both Shivaji and Adil Shah simultaneously.
(ii) This reflected his confidence in Mughal superiority.
(iii) It also showed his underestimation of Deccan powers.
Jai Singh’s Political Advice
(a) Jai Singh highlighted the impracticality of fighting both enemies at once.
(b) He stressed the importance of strategic focus and political diplomacy.
(c) This advice reflected his astuteness as a politician.
Jai Singh’s Forward Policy in the Deccan
Jai Singh was the first Mughal leader to push for a full-fledged forward policy in the Deccan.
Concept of the Forward Policy
(i) Jai Singh argued that the Maratha problem could not be solved without aggressive action.
(ii) He anticipated the need for this policy nearly 20 years before Aurangzeb adopted it.
(iii) His famous view: “The conquest of Bijapur is the preface to the conquest of all Deccan and Karnataka.”
Aurangzeb’s Hesitation in Adopting the Policy
Despite Jai Singh’s advice, Aurangzeb delayed adopting a forward policy due to strategic constraints.
Reasons for Hesitation
(i) Threats from the Iranian ruler in the northwest.
(ii) The long and difficult nature of the Deccan campaigns.
(iii) The need for the Emperor’s personal presence in such prolonged operations.
(iv) The presence of Shah Jahan limited Aurangzeb’s ability to leave the north for distant campaigns.
Jai Singh’s Bijapur Campaign (1665)
The campaign against Bijapur demonstrated the limitations of Mughal resources and strategy.
Campaign Details
(i) Jai Singh’s campaign was under-resourced and faced united resistance from Deccan states.
(ii) The Qutb Shah supported Bijapur with a large force.
(iii) Deccani states used guerrilla tactics to cut Mughal supplies.
(iv) Lack of siege guns forced a retreat without territorial gains.
(v) Aurangzeb’s censure and disappointment hastened Jai Singh’s death in 1667.
Surrender of Sholapur (1668)
The first phase of Aurangzeb’s Deccan policy ended with the surrender of Sholapur.
End of the First Phase
(i) In 1668, Sholapur was surrendered to the Mughals through bribery.
(ii) This marked the closure of the initial round of Deccan campaigns.
Summary of Aurangzeb’s Deccan Policy in the 1660s
The Deccan policy of Aurangzeb in the 1660s highlights Mughal strategic limitations, Shivaji’s resilience, and Jai Singh’s foresight. The Bijapur campaign (1665) and the surrender of Sholapur (1668) reveal how miscalculations and hesitation shaped outcomes. For students, this episode is crucial to understand the Mughal-Maratha struggle and its long-term impact on Indian history.
