Mughal Strategy and Factionalism: Navigating Complex Dynamics

The Second Phase (1668-84): Aurangzeb's relation with Deccani states. Aurangzeb and Deccani States. Final Breach with Shivaji—Shivaji’s Administration and Achievements. Treaty of Purandar and Shivaji’s Visit to Agra. The Marathas & Mughals: Rise of Chattrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Conflict with Bijapur & rise of marathas. The Rise of the Marathas. Early Career of Shivaji. Conflict with Bijapur and the Mughals. Shivaji's Legend and Continued Struggles.

• The Mughals were relatively inactive in the Deccan between 1668 and 1676.
• Madanna and Akhanna rose to power in Golconda, effectively ruling from 1672 to 1687.
• They attempted a tripartite alliance between Golconda, Bijapur, and Shivaji, but factionalism in Bijapur and Shivaji's ambitions disrupted this.
• Bijapur factions shifted between pro- and anti-Mughal stances.
• Shivaji alternated between raiding and supporting Bijapur against the Mughals.

Aurangzeb's Limited Expansion: A Cautious Approach

• Aurangzeb, despite concern about Maratha power, limited Mughal expansion in the Deccan.
• He repeatedly tried to install a pro-Mughal party in Bijapur.

Mughal Military Interventions: A Strategy of Influence

• Several Mughal interventions aimed to achieve this policy.
• The main result was the reaffirmation of the Deccani alliance against the Mughals.

Diler Khan's Campaign (1679-80): A Failed Offensive

• Diler Khan's attempt to capture Bijapur failed.
• No Mughal viceroy could contend with the united Deccani forces.
• Karnataki matchlockmen played a significant role in defending Bijapur.
• Shivaji raided Mughal territories, leading to Diler Khan's recall.