The Commanders of the Maratha Army at the 3rd Battle of Panipat: A Historical Insight

The 3rd Battle of Panipat, fought on January 14, 1761, in the region of Haryana, India, marked one of the most significant and bloody conflicts of the 18th century. This battle pitted the Afghan Emperor Ahmad Shah Abdali against the Maratha army, led by a series of notable Maratha chieftains and leaders.

Historical Context and Significance

The Battle of Panipat in 1761 was an intense confrontation where numerous chieftains and leaders from the Maratha army laid down their lives in an attempt to protect Delhi. The names of around 1200 Maratha chieftains who fought and fell in this war have been documented for the first time. This revelation is significant as it brings to light the roles of lesser-known figures who fought valiantly in this pivotal battle.

Documentary Evidence and New Discoveries

Recent historical research has unearthed previously hidden documents that provide deeper insights into the events leading up to and during the battle. Historical tools such as Bakhars (a type of Maratha chronicle) and contemporary documents have been made available, offering a more accurate portrayal of the Battle of Panipat. The book published in 2014 stands out for its scholarly approach, free from any fictional elements. It mentions the names of 1200 Maratha chieftains, providing an extensive record of the participants in the battle.

Characteristics and Details of Maratha Chieftains

The Bakhari, a detailed account of the battle, lists numerous Maratha chieftains, including Sadashivrao Bhau, Vishwasrao Bhausaheb, Dattaji Shinde, Jankoji Shinde, and Yashwantrao Pawar. These chieftains fought bravely, and their names are now recognized for their roles in history. Other prominent figures include:

Peshwe Sadashivrao Bhau Vishwasrao Bhausaheb Dattaji Shinde Jankoji Shinde Yashwantrao Pawar

These names represent the diversity of leadership within the Maratha army during this conflict. The Bakhari also includes the names of other chieftains such as Narsingh Rao Ingale, Dhanaji Waghmode, Vitthal Shivdev Ranoji, and Mahipatrao Chitanvis, reflecting the broad coalition that stood against Ahmad Shah Abdali.

Imperial Support and Internal Betrayal

While the Maratha army fought bravely, they suffered a defeat. This was not due to the military might of Ahmad Shah Abdali, but rather due to the lack of support from the Hindu kings and chieftains in northern India, who did not aid the Marathas. This betrayal by the very people who ostensibly shared a common enemy highlights the complex political landscape of the time.

Conclusion and Reflection

The 3rd Battle of Panipat, while a loss for the Marathas, is now seen as a testament to their bravery and unwavering resolve. The names of the Maratha chieftains have been brought to light, allowing future generations to appreciate the sacrifices made during this pivotal moment in history. The Battle of Panipat served as a rallying point for the pride and dignity of Maharashtra, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of unity in the face of conflict.