The Cambridge History of India, Vol. IV: The Mughul Period v4.c21.4

v4.c21.4

In the history of the Mughul Deccan, too, a new scene opens with the battle of Shakarkhelda. The constant succession of short-term viceroys, the discord due to the six divisions being held by six different officers, and the civil strife between rivals for the viceroyalty, henceforth ceased. There was now one ruler over the whole tract; he made it his home and planted his dynasty there; and he had not to take his orders from a far-off master. His strong arm brought peace to that unhappy land harried by war for forty years since the invasion of Aurangzīb. Ambitious local officers, rebel chieftains and robber leaders thought twice before challenging the vanquisher of Dilāvar ‘Alī, ‘Ālim ‘Alī and Mubāriz Khān. This enforcement of law and order, coupled with his moderate revenue assessment and strict prohibition of illegal cesses, gave security to the peasant and the trader, and the wealth of the country increased rapidly.