The Second Phase (1668-84): A Period of Shifting Alliances and Limited Mughal Expansion

The Mughal strategy in the Deccan during 1668–1684 reflects a turbulent phase of Aurangzeb’s cautious policies, factionalism in Bijapur, and the meteoric rise of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This era highlights treaties, conflicts, and shifting alliances that reshaped the power balance in the Deccan. For students and competitive exam preparation, understanding this period is crucial to grasp the interplay of Mughal, Maratha, and Deccani politics.

Mughal Strategy and Factionalism in the Deccan (1668–1684): Aurangzeb, Shivaji, and Deccani States

• The Deccan became a stage of complex alliances, betrayals, and shifting strategies between the Mughals, Marathas, and southern sultanates.

  The Mughal approach in the Deccan between 1668–84 involved cautious diplomacy, military interventions, and managing the rise of Shivaji Maharaj amidst factional politics in Bijapur and Golconda.

  • (i) The Mughals remained largely inactive between 1668–1676, allowing regional powers space to maneuver.
  • (ii) Madanna and Akhanna rose as key figures in Golconda, ruling effectively between 1672–1687.
  • (iii) Attempts at alliances among Golconda, Bijapur, and Shivaji faltered due to ambitions and internal factionalism.
  • (iv) Bijapur factions alternated between pro- and anti-Mughal camps, reflecting instability.
  • (v) Shivaji alternated between raiding Mughal lands and supporting Bijapur when advantageous.

• Aurangzeb’s Limited Expansion and Deccan Policy

  Aurangzeb sought influence in the Deccan without full-scale expansion, balancing caution with political maneuvering.

  • Aurangzeb and the Maratha Challenge

    • (i) Despite growing Maratha power, Aurangzeb restricted Mughal expansion to avoid overextension.
    • (ii) His strategy relied on installing pro-Mughal elements in Bijapur.

  • Mughal Military Interventions

    • (a) Several interventions were launched to enforce Mughal authority.
    • (b) These interventions often reignited alliances among Deccani states against the Mughals.
    • (c) The outcomes highlighted the limits of Mughal power projection.

  • Diler Khan’s Campaign (1679–80)

    • (i) Diler Khan’s attempt to capture Bijapur ended in failure.
    • (ii) United Deccani forces resisted Mughal advances strongly.
    • (iii) Karnataki matchlockmen played a decisive defensive role.
    • (iv) Shivaji raided Mughal territories, forcing Diler Khan’s recall.

• Summary of Mughal Deccan Strategy (1668–84)

  The Mughal strategy in the Deccan during 1668–84 highlights Aurangzeb’s cautious expansion, the rise of Shivaji Maharaj, and constant factional struggles in Bijapur and Golconda. Despite repeated military interventions, the Mughals failed to fully subdue the Deccan, strengthening Maratha resilience. For students, this period is vital for understanding shifting alliances, administrative challenges, and the roots of prolonged Mughal-Maratha conflict.