The Cambridge History of India, Vol. IV: The Mughul Period v4.c21.19

v4.c21.19

Here he found a perilous situation created by the ambition of his second son Nāsir Jang, whom he had left in the Deccan as his deputy during his three and a half years' absence in northern India. This young noble was of a fiery impetuous nature, in contrast with his father's cool and far-sighted judgment and perfect self-control. Taking advantage of the shock given to the imperial power by Nādir's invasion and Āsaf Jāh's absence, the Marāthās achieved some conspicuous successes. Raghūjī Bhonsle of Nāgpur slew the Mughal governor of Berār (January, 1738) and exacted contribution from Ellichpur. Chimājī raided the environs of Burhānpur. Gopāl Rāo seized the fort of Māhur (in Berār). In April, 1739, Bājī Rāo began to confiscate grants near the capital of Khāndesh, but retired at the end of next month on hearing of Nādir's retreat. In the winter of 1739-40 he renewed his depredations south of Aurangābād, but Nāsir Jang sallied out and drove him beyond the Godāvarī. For one month (28 January-29 February, 1740) there was daily marching and fighting. At last a meeting was arranged between the two chiefs and peace was made by granting the districts of Khargon and Handiya to the Peshwā.