A *History of the Mahrattas*, by James Grant Duff, despite its value to the student of Indian history, has for many years been difficult to procure, and the reprints of the original edition are also scarce. Only in the Calcutta edition of 1912 has any attempt been made at annotation of the text, and the notes which appear as appendices to the three volumes of that edition are meagre and inchoate. In preparing the footnotes to the present edition, I have endeavoured to confine them strictly to the illumination of Grant Duff’s text, and to the record of new facts or circumstances which have become known since he wrote. With the same object I have included in the Introduction a note on the ‘Origin of the Marāthās,’ and a brief account of Marāthī literature, as neither of these subjects is dealt with by the author, and both are inseparably connected with the history of Mahārāshtra. The Introduction also includes a brief memoir of the author, a note on his work, and an alphabetical list of the authorities consulted in the preparation of the footnotes.

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In regard to the spelling of proper-names and place-names I have decided to leave Grant Duff’s spelling in the text unaltered, partly because in the majority of cases it approximates very closely to the sound of the words as pronounced in the vernacular, and partly because the wholesale transformation of his spelling according to the modern system seems to me to destroy to some degree the original character of his work. My plan throughout has been, in all footnotes to give the modern spelling, as followed in the latest edition of the *Imperial Gazetteer of India*, with Grant Duff’s spelling in parentheses immediately after it, and in the Index either to give his spelling with the modern spelling in parentheses beside it, or in cases of marked difference to give both spellings with a cross-reference against Grant Duff’s to the modern form of the word. Thus the footnote on ‘Oolpar’

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gives ‘ Olpād (Oolpar),’ while in the Index the paginal numbers will be found under ‘ Oolpar (Olpād).’ On the other hand, in the case of ‘ Outar,’ the Index gives ‘ Outar, see Avatār,’ the paginal number being given under the latter and more correct modern spelling.

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My footnotes, whether standing alone or in the form of addenda to those of Grant Duff, are throughout distinguished from his by enclosure within brackets, e.g. [ ]. It has not been considered worth while to reproduce the plates, woodcuts and maps appearing in the original edition of the work; but a modern map showing the south-western portion of the Indian continent has been included at the end of the second volume. The portrait of the author, which appears as a frontispiece to this volume, is a replica of a photograph of an oil-painting, which was kindly supplied by the author’s grandson, Mr. A. C. Grant Duff.

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In the preparation of this edition I have to acknowledge help from various sources. The late Dr. Vincent A. Smith, C.I.E., kindly read through the manuscript notes of two-thirds of the work, offered valuable comments and suggestions and supplied references to various authorities, and also lent me a copy of Mankar’s translation of the *Sabhāsad Bakhar*—a very rare book of which only one other copy besides his own has been traced in this country. Dr. William Crooke, C.I.E., performed the same office in respect of the remaining annotations and the Introduction, lent me books from his own library, and supplied me with many notes, references and facts which without his assistance I might have overlooked or been unable to obtain. To Mr. R. E. Enthoven, C.I.E., I am indebted for the valuable ethnographical note on the Marāthās which is included in full in the section of the Introduction dealing with the origin of these people. The Reverend J. N. Farquhar obliged me by reading the note on Marāthī literature, and by lending me the proof-pages of his own work on the religious literature of India, which contain his views on the Bhāgavat origin of the Bhakti movement in Western India. Professor R. P. Paranjpye, Principal of the Fergusson College, Poona, was good enough to send me copies of the College Magazine containing Professor W. P. Patvardhan’s Wilson Philological Lectures, upon which I have drawn freely for the résumé of Marāthī literature; Major J. G. Greig, C.I.E., Military Secretary to the Governor of Bombay, sent me details of the picture of the Pēshwā, Sindia and Nānā Farnavīs, which hangs in the hall of Ganeshkhind, Poona; Mr. R. P. Masani, Deputy Municipal Commissioner, Bombay, supplied me with extracts from a Bombay official record, which I could not procure here; while I have to thank Dr. J. Allan of the British Museum, the authorities in charge of the armouries at Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace, and General Sir Dighton Probyn, V.C., G.C.V.O., for assistance in an attempt to determine the present whereabouts of Sivājī's sword, Bhavānī.

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S. M. EDWARDES.

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EDITOR'S NOTE

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I HAVE to thank the University of Calcutta for kindly presenting me with a copy of Professor S. Sen's *Siva Chhatrapati*. Unfortunately the book arrived too late to permit of my referring to it or quoting from it in the footnotes to the first volume of this edition. The student of Marāthā history would do well to consult Professor Sen's translation and his notes and appendices, particularly in reference to such matters as the murder of Afzal Khān and Sivājī's supposed relationship with the Udaipur family. The book was published by the University of Calcutta in 1920.

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S. M. E.

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VOL. I.

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PAGES PREFACE BY THE EDITOR . . . vii–ix

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INTRODUCTION BY THE EDITOR CONTAINING : I. MEMOIR OF THE AUTHOR . . . xxix–xxxiv II. ‘A HISTORY OF THE MAHRATTAS’ . . xxxiv–xlii III. THE ORIGIN OF THE MARĀTHĀS . . xlii–lix IV. MARĀTHĪ LITERATURE . . . lix–lxxv V. EDITIONS OF GRANT DUFF’S WORK . . lxxvi–lxxx VI. LIST OF AUTHORITIES CONSULTED FOR THE PRESENT EDITION . . . lxxx–lxxxv

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AUTHOR’S PREFACE TO THE ORIGINAL EDITION . lxxxvi–xcii

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PRELIMINARY OBSERVATIONS.

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Respecting the Geography, Chief Features, Climate, People, Religion, Learning, Early History, and Institutions of the Mahratta Country . . . . . . pp. 1–39

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CHAPTER I.

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FROM A.D. 1000 TO A.D. 1478.

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Conquest of the Deccan by the Mahomedans.—They cross the Nerbuddah, and penetrate to Deogurh.—Establish their Sovereignty.—Deogurh becomes the capital of the Mahomedan Empire in India, and its name changed to Doulutabad.—An insurrection—lays the foundation of an independent kingdom in the Deccan.—

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The Bahminee dynasty.—Its duration.—Condition of the Mahrattas during its existence.—Few insurrections of the Mahrattas against their Mahomedan rulers.—The dreadful famine, Doorga Dewee.—Districts depopulated.—Hill-forts in possession of Polygars and robbers.—An expedition sent to restore order.—Dadoo Nursoo Kallay.—His revenue arrangements.—A second and a third expedition.—Treacherous massacre of the Mahomedan army by a Mahratta Raja.—Concan reduced, A.D. 1469.—Decline of the Bahminee dynasty, and immediate causes which led to it.

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CHAPTER II.

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FROM A.D. 1478 TO A.D. 1637.

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Five independent states arise from the dismembered monarchy, which afterwards form the three kingdoms of Ahmednugur, Beejapoor, and Golcondah.—The term Deccan as now used.—Review of events during the sixteenth century.—Forts garrisoned by Mahrattas.—Portuguese appear on the Malabar coast—on the shores of Maharashtra—they take Goa.—The King of Ahmednugur appoints a Bramin his Peishwa, or prime minister.—The king of Beejapoor likewise shows a preference for the natives of Maharashtra.—Cavalry.—Sillidars and Bargeers.—Portuguese ravage the coast, and levy contributions.—Battle of Telikotta.—Beejanugur state subverted.—The kings of Beejapoor and Ahmednugur attack the Portuguese without success.—Maharashtra, A.D. 1573, possessed, with some exceptions, by Beejapoor and Ahmednugur.—Extent of the kingdoms of Beejapoor, Ahmednugur, and Golcondah.—Internal administration.—The Mahrattas under these states frequently opposed to each other.—The principal Mahratta families under Beejapoor and Ahmednugur—some account of each family—particularly that of Bhonslay.—The Moghul invasions, for the purpose of subjugating the Deccan states, had great influence on the rise of the Mahrattas.—State of the Deccan when the Emperor Akber projected its conquest—at his death, A.D. 1605, in possession of a part of the territory of Nizam Shah.—Mullik Umber—his regency.—Lookhjee Jadow Rao.—Death of Mullik Umber, and of Ibrahim Adil Shah.—Shahjee Bhonslay.—Mahrattas fast rising into consequence.—Accession of Mohummud Adil Shah.—Futih Khan succeeds his father.—Mullik Umber is confined by Mortiza Nizam Shah.—Murder of Lookhjee Jadow Rao.—Death of the Emperor Jehangeer, and accession of his son, Shah Jehan.—Khan Jehan Lodi, his rebellion and death.—Shahjee Bhonslay enters the Moghul service.—Alliance betwixt Mortiza Nizam Shah and the king of Beejapoor.—Army of Beejapoor defeated by the Moghuls.—Futih Khan murders Mortiza Nizam Shah—negotiates with the Emperor—obtains some districts previously promised to Shahjee.—Shahjee in disgust joins the army of Beejapoor.—Futih Khan treacherously breaks with the Moghuls.—Siege and surrender of Doulutabad.—Moghuls repulsed before Purinda, and compelled to retreat to Burhanpoor—Shahjee’s regency.—Shah Jehan’s policy.—War with Beejapoor—peace concluded—terms.—Shahjee maintains a desultory warfare—is at last compelled to yield, and enter the service of Beejapoor.—End of the Byheree dynasty . . . . . pp. 57–93

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CHAPTER III.

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FROM A.D. 1637 TO A.D. 1648.

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Shahjee’s progress after entering the service of Beejapoor—marries a second wife.—Two sons by his first wife, Sumbhajee and Sivajee ; and one son by his second wife, Venkajee.—Shahjee departs for the Carnatic, and sends his first wife and his son Sivajee to reside on his Jagheer at Poona, under the care of Dadajee Konedeo.—Political views of the Courts of Beejapoor and Golcondah.—The Moghuls introduce a new revenue system, and the Fusslee era into the Deccan.—Revenue system of Dadajee Konedeo.—The Mawuls’ improvement of the condition of their inhabitants.—Sivajee’s education—disposition, and early pursuits.—His three first adherents—obtains possession of the fort of Torna—manner of justifying the proceeding—builds Rajgurh.—Dadajee Konedeo’s death.—The Killidars of Chakun and Kondaneh gained over by Sivajee—makes himself master of Sopa, and the fortress of Poorundhur . . . . . pp. 94–107

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CHAPTER IV.

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FROM A.D. 1648 TO A.D. 1657.

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Local authorities under the Beejapoor government, in the immediate neighbourhood of Sivajee.—The Sawunts of Waree.—The Seedee of Jinjeera.—A daring robbery.—Forts taken by surprise.—The province of Kallian reduced.—Shahjee seized.—Sivajee applies to Shah Jehan for his enlargement.—An attempt to seize Sivajee frustrated.—Shahjee released—returns to the Carnatic—his eldest son Sumbhajee killed.—Progress of Sivajee.—Murder of the Raja of Jowlee, and conquest of his country.—Rohira escaladed.—Pertabgurh built.—Shamraje Punt the first Mahratta Peishwa.—Sivajee’s views on the Moghul districts.—History of the Moghuls in the Deccan since 1636.—Meer Joomleh.—Moghuls attack Golcondah—make war on Beejapoor.—Shah Jehan’s illness—his four sons—all aspire to the crown.—Aurungzebe’s character and progress—usurps the throne . . . . . pp. 108–126 the siege of Beejapoor, and retreat—is superseded by Sultan Mauzum, and dies on his return towards Delhi . pp. 150–171

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CHAPTER VII.

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FROM A.D. 1667 TO A.D. 1669.

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Sultan Mauzum and Jeswunt Sing—their characters.—Sivajee through them obtains various favours from the Emperor.—The reported intention of Sultan Mauzum, to rebel against his father, doubted.—Peace concluded between Beejapoor and the Moghuls.—The states of Beejapoor and Golcondah agree to pay Sivajee an annual tribute.—Unsuccessful attempts of Sivajee against Goa and Jinjeera.—Rumours respecting Sivajee, whilst he is revising and improving his civil and military arrangements—his remarkable institutions—the formation, discipline, and interior economy of his troops—his forts—financial and judicial regulations—chief offices and persons through whom his government was administered . pp. 172–186

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CHAPTER VIII.

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FROM A.D. 1670 TO A.D. 1676.

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The tranquillity of the Deccan is interrupted—Interesting and daring enterprise—Singurh escaladed, and Tannajee Maloosray slain—several forts taken.—Jinjeera on the point of being delivered up to Sivajee—prevented by a revolution.—The Seedees enter the Moghul service.—Sivajee plunders Surat—is intercepted on his return—stratagem for saving his booty—attacks the Moghul troops, and defeats them.—Naval operations.—Candeish plundered and the Chouth imposed.—Oundha, Putta, and Salheir taken.—Causes of the inactivity of the Moghuls.—Jeswunt Sing is relieved by Mohabet Khan—feeble operations against the forts.—Salheir besieged—relieved.—The Mahrattas obtain a great victory.—Sivajee at war with the Portuguese—attempts to surprise a small fort on Salsette.—English alarmed—press their long pending claims on Sivajee.—Khan Jehan Buhadur appointed Viceroy of the Moghul possessions—his defensive system disapproved by Dilere Khan, who had been successful against Chakun.—Sivajee visits Golcondah—his coast suffers by a descent from the fleets of Surat and Jinjeera.—Death of Ali Adil Shah.—Khowaus Khan appointed regent at Beejapoor.—Sivajee retakes Panalla—plunders Hooblee.—English apply to him for indemnification.—Sivajee prosecutes the war against Beejapoor—conciliates the Moghul Viceroy—takes Purlee—Satara, and several forts in its neighbourhood.—Pertab Rao attacks the Beejapoor army on its march—grants an armistice, which is disapproved by Sivajee.—Pertab Rao, without Sivajee’s permission, makes a distant excursion.—Abdool Khureem, whilst Sivajee is engaged in the siege of Ponda, makes an effort to recover Panalla.—Pertab Rao arrives—receives a message from Sivajee—attacks the Beejapoor army, and is defeated and killed.—Victory snatched from the Mahomedans, by the valour and conduct of Hussajee Mohitey.—Suntajee Ghorepuray and Dhunnajee Jadow are distinguished.—Hussajee Mohitey appointed Senaputtee, with the title of Humbeer Rao.—Death of Abajee Sonedeo.—Siege of Ponda raised.—Sivajee is enthroned, and assumes the titles and insignia of royalty.—Treaty with the English—tribute from the Portuguese.—Ounda and Putta retaken.—Incursion of Humbeer Rao.—Ponda taken.—Murder of Khowaus Khan.—Sivajee builds a line of forts from Tattora to Panalla—is confined by illness at Satara—projects a most important expedition.

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CHAPTER IX.

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FROM A.D. 1676 TO A.D. 1680.

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State of politics in the Deccan when Sivajee undertakes his expedition into the Carnatic.—How suggested—preliminary arrangements.—Sivajee departs.—Conference and alliance with Kootub Shah at Hyderabad—proceeds to the southward—extraordinary devotions.—Progress of the conquests.—Negotiations with Venkajee.—Golcondah is invaded by the Moghuls, and the army of Beejapoor—they are repulsed.—Death of Abdool Khureem.—Musaood Khan, by the influence of Dilere Khan, appointed regent.—Sivajee sets out on his return—takes Bellary, etc.—Venkajee attacks Sivajee’s troops, and is defeated.—A body of Mahrattas in the service of Beejapoor defeated by Sivajee’s troops.—Successes of Jenardin Punt, who by the aid of Humbeer Rao reduces the Dooab.—Proceedings of Moro Punt.—Sultan Mauzum returns to Aurungabad as viceroy.—Dilere Khan again ordered against Beejapoor.—Musaood Khan calls in the aid of Sivajee, who commits dreadful devastation in the Moghul provinces—plunders Jaulna—is attacked, and in danger of being worsted, when he retrieves the day by his personal exertions—is subsequently saved from great danger by one of his guides.—Twenty-seven forts taken.—Musaood Khan earnestly solicits further assistance.—Sumbhajee deserts to the Moghuls.—Dilere Khan’s proposals.—Emperor’s objections.—Sumbhajee returns to his father.—Dilere Khan raises the siege of Beejapoor—crosses the Kistna, with a body of horse, and is attacked and defeated by Jenardin Punt.—Sivajee’s claims in consequence of the assistance afforded to Beejapoor.—Supremacy of Tanjore, etc., transferred to Sivajee.—Venkajee’s independence affected by this arrangement—his behaviour in consequence.—Sivajee’s excellent advice.—Sivajee’s death and character—possessions and treasures.—The ministers influenced by Soyera Bye, propose setting Sumbhajee aside, and appointing Raja Ram to the succession.—Sumbhajee discovers the plot—takes command of Panalla—displays considerable energy—seizes Jenardin Punt.— Moro Punt and Humbeer Rao join Sumbhajee.—The garrison of Raigurh and the army declare for him . . . pp. 211–234

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CHAPTER X.

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FROM A.D. 1680 TO A.D. 1689.

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Cruelties exercised by Sumbhajee on assuming power—execution of Soyera Bye.—Inauspicious commencement of his reign.—Unavailing attempts to drive the Seedee from the island of Kenery.— Sultan Mohummud Akber seeks an asylum in Sumbhajee’s territory.—Plot in favour of Raja Ram.—Executions.—Execution of Annajee Dutto.—Moro Punt imprisoned.—Rugonath Narrain Hunwuntay—his spirited remonstrances, and their consequences. —Sumbhajee attacks Jinjeera.—Moghuls make an incursion into the Concan, and are compelled to retreat.—Assault on Jinjeera repulsed—siege raised.—Sumbhajee attacks the Portuguese— endeavours to conciliate the English.—Portuguese besiege Ponda, and are compelled to retreat with heavy loss.—Kuloosha the prime minister of Sumbhajee.—Decay in the institutions of Sivajee.— State of the army—lands over-assessed.—Approach of Aurungzebe. —Survey of the state of the Deccan, from the first year after Sumbhajee’s accession, up to the fall of Beejapoor and Golcondah. —Extraordinary revolution amongst the English at Bombay.— Aurungzebe’s operations.—Salheir is surrendered.—Sultan Mauzum is sent to attack Sumbhajee in the Concan.—Imposition of the Jizeea—reflections.—Death of Dilere Khan.—Aurungzebe arrives at Ahmednugur—description of his camp.—Operations of Sultan Mauzum. Humbeer Rao and Khan Jehan.—Distress of Sultan Mauzum’s army—returns extremely reduced—operations.—Mahrattas plunder Baroach, and proclaim Mohummud Akber Emperor. —Operations against Beejapoor and Golcondah.—Murder of Mahdhuna Punt.—Truce with Golcondah.—Siege and capture of Beejapoor—description of the present state of its ruins.—Fall of Golcondah.—Arrangements in the conquered districts.—Mode in which the Moghuls took possession of, and regulated a district.— Operations of the Mahrattas.—Humbeer Rao defeats Shirzee Khan, but falls in the battle.—Operations in the Carnatic.—Profligacy and imbecility of Sumbhajee.—Sultan Mohummud Akber quits him in disgust.—Remarkable consequences of the laxity of discipline in Sumbhajee’s army.—State of the Hindoo population in Maharashtra.—Impolicy of Aurungzebe.—Remarks on the state of the country, extending, by anticipation, to a period of twelve years after the subversion of the Deccan kingdoms.—Operations of the Emperor.—Piracies of the English.—Sumbhajee surprised and made prisoner, together with his minister—behaviour— execution—Summary of his character . . . pp. 235–277

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CHAPTER XI.

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Raja Ram.—Meeting of the principal Mahratta leaders at Raigurh.—Raja Ram declared regent, during the minority of Sumbhajee’s son.—Important consultations, in which Prillhad Neerajee takes a conspicuous part.—Siege and capture of Raigurh.—The son and widow of Sumbhajee taken.—Merich and Panalla taken.—Raja Ram flees to Ginjee—narrowly escapes being intercepted—establishes the form of the Court of Sivajee—creates the rank of Pritee Needhee.—Suntajee Ghorepuray and Dhunnajee Jadow sent back to Maharashtra.—Raja Ram ascends the throne.—Zoolfikar Khan sent against Ginjee.—Siege delayed.—Aspect of affairs in the Deccan.—Proceedings of Ramchundur Punt.—Origin of Ghas-dana.—Rajgurh and Panalla retaken.—Proceedings of Suntajee and Dhunnajee—and of Aurungzebe.—Ginjee invested.—Supersession of Zoolfikar Khan by the arrival of Kaum Bukhsh.—Jealousies to which it gives rise.—Aurungzebe fixes his principal cantonment at Brimhapooree.—Portuguese and English.—Suntajee and Dhunnajee repair to the Carnatic—attack the Moghuls with great success—a truce—dissolved by the Emperor.—Siege of Ginjee renewed.—Kassim Khan, with several other officers, compelled by Suntajee to surrender, together with their troops. Himmut Khan defeated and slain.—Siege of Ginjee pressed.—Raja Ram is permitted to escape.—Ginjee taken.—Dissensions amongst the Mahrattas, which increase in consequence of the death of the Pritee Needhee.—A sedition obliges Suntajee Ghorepuray to flee from his own troops.—Satara becomes the seat of the Mahratta government.—Changes and promotions.—Kanhojee Angria, on the death of Seedojee Goojur, succeeds to the command of the fleet.—Suntajee Ghorepuray basely murdered by Nagojee Manay.—Raja Ram takes the field with a very large army—plunders the country, and imposes the Chouth in Candeish, Gung-thuree, and Berar, leaving officers to collect it.—Zoolfikar Khan recalled from the Carnatic.—New plan of operations—a pursuing and a besieging force.—Zoolfikar Khan attacks and pursues Raja Ram.—Emperor takes Wussuntgurh—invests Satara—description of its defences—its siege and surrender.—Capture of Purlee.—Distress of the Moghul army, in consequence of the setting in of the monsoon.—Death and character of Raja Ram—his widow Tara Bye assumes the regency.—Pures hram Trimbuck appointed Pritee Needhee.—Mahrattas under Dhunnajee Jadow, and minor chiefs.—Description of a body of Mahratta plunderers, contrasted with the splendour of a Moghul camp.—Great devastations.—State of the Moghuls.—Aurungzebe perseveres in his plan of reducing the forts.—General devastation and confusion.—Weakness of the Moghuls.—Power of the Mahrattas—its nature.—State of feeling in the country.—Moghuls make overtures for an accommodation—broken off.—Aurungzebe quits the neighbourhood of Poona, and moves to the eastward.—Wakinkerah besieged, and finally reduced.—Mahrattas retaking their forts—they attack the grand army on its march. Emperor in danger of being taken.—Death and character of Aurungzebe . . . . . . . . . pp. 278-311

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CHAPTER XII.

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FROM A.D. 1707 TO A.D. 1720.

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Shao—origin of the name—he is released.—Tara Bye declares him an impostor, and disputes his pretensions.—Origin of the Rajas of Akulkote.—Shao obtains possession of Satara—ascends the throne.—Origin of the celebrated Ballajee Wishwanath.—Proceedings of the Moghuls.—Shao’s progress.—War with Tara Bye.—Agreement with Daood Khan.—Death of Dhunnajee Jadow.—Tara Bye recovers Panalla, and establishes her court at Kolapoor.—Death of Sivajee.—Accession of Sumbhajee, and confinement of Tara Bye.—Advantages secured to Shao by the death of the Punt Suchew.—Dissolution of the agreement with the Moghuls.—Mahrattas under Chunder Seyn Jadow proceed to collect their dues.—A trifling dispute between Chunder Seyn Jadow and Ballajee Wishwanath leads to important consequences.—Ballajee is protected by Shao.—Jadow retires to Kolapoor, and afterwards joins the Moghuls.—Origin of Nizam Ool Moolk—is appointed viceroy of the Deccan.—War with the Moghuls.—After a battle, the Mahrattas retreat to the Salpee Ghaut—accommodation.—Disturbances.—A daring robbery, supposed to be committed by Khundee Rao Dhabaray—who establishes himself near Rajpeeplee.—Nizam Ool Moolk favours the Kolapoor party.—Seedojee Ghorepuray declares for Sumbhajee, and is made Senaputtee at Kolapoor—obtains possession of Sondoor.—Great confusion and anarchy.—Ballajee Wishwanath is treacherously made prisoner by Dummajee Thorat—and ransomed.—Success of Ballajee Wishwanath against Kishen Rao Kuttaokur.—Defeat of Byhroo Punt Pingley Peishwa, by Kanhojee Angria.—Alarming progress of Angria.—Ballajee Wishwanath effects a favourable arrangement with him, and is made Peishwa—obtains possession of Poorundhur for himself—reduces Thorat—establishes order in the Poona district.—Improvement in the aspect of Mahratta affairs—allusion to the extraordinary expansion of their power, from about this period—and to the Bramin scheme for creating union amongst the Mahratta chiefs.—Character of Shao.—The Emperor Ferokhsere conciliates the Mahrattas.—Hoossein Ally Khan appointed viceroy of the Deccan—is opposed by Daood Khan, who is killed.—Zoolfikar Beg defeated by Khundee Rao Dhabaray.—Battle near Ahmednugur.—Dhabaray is made Senaputtee.—Ferokhsere encourages the Mahrattas to resist the viceroy—the latter negotiates with the Mahrattas—concludes a treaty with Shao—marches, supported by a large body of Mahrattas, to Delhi.—Ferokhsere deposed, and Mohummud Shah raised to the imperial dignity.—The famous grants for the Chouth, Surdeshmookhee, and Swuraje, delivered to Ballajee

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CHAPTER XIV.

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Plans of Nizam Ool Moolk for consolidating his own power, and of creating dissensions among the Mahrattas.—Negotiations with Shao through the Pritee Needhee, and obtains the relinquishment of the Chouth in the neighbourhood of Hyderabad.—The agreement disapproved of by the Peishwa.—Nizam Ool Moolk prosecutes his plans, by endeavouring to revive the feud between Shao and Sumbhajee—frustrated by the Peishwa—war.—Able conduct of Bajee Rao—forces Nizam Ool Moolk into terms.—Negotiations with Sur Booland Khan.—Bajee Rao obtains grants of the Chouth and Surdeshmookhee for Guzerat.—Proceedings of Sumbhajee, Raja of Kolapoor—he is defeated by the Pritee Needhee.—Treaty between the Mahrattas of Satara and Kolapoor.—War between the Peishwa and the Senaputtee.—Battle of Dubhoy—Bajee Rao victorious, and Dhabaray slain.—Nizam Ool Moolk diverts the Peishwa’s attack from his own to the imperial territories.—Agreement between the Peishwa and the Senaputtee relative to Guzerat.—Abhee Sing, Raja of Joudpoor, appointed to supersede Sur Boolund Khan.—Policy of Nizam Ool Moolk.—Bajee Rao proceeds to Malwa.—War in Guzerat, between Peelajee Gaekwar and Abhee Sing—the latter sends emissaries on pretence of negotiating—Peelajee is assassinated.—The Peishwa is called to the assistance of the Raja Chitoor Sal, in Bundelcund—forces Mohummud Khan Bungush into a fort.—Bundelcund evacuated by the Moghuls.—Territory granted to Bajee Rao as a reward.—Raja Jey Sing appointed governor of Malwa—concludes an agreement with Bajee Rao, and concedes the government to him . . pp. 368–382

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CHAPTER XV.

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FROM A.D. 1734 TO A.D. 1739.

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Mahratta affairs.—Rughoojee Bhonslay is appointed Sena Sahib Soobeh.—Affairs of the Concan—of Sawunt—Angria.—Unsuccessful campaigns of the Pritee Needhee against the Seedee.—Revolution at Jinjeera.—Peishwa returns from Malwa—proceedings.—Arrangements made in the Concan.—Mulharjee Holkar’s incursions—policy of the vizier Khan Dowran.—Nizam Ool Moolk courted by the Emperor.—Muzuffir Khan marches against the Mahrattas.—Holkar’s conduct towards him.—Holkar continues levying contributions—makes an incursion into Guzerat.—Momin Khan appointed governor of that province.—Bajee Rao’s pecuniary embarrassments.—Negotiations with the imperial court—obtains an assignment on Malwa, and a tribute from the Rajpoots—further negotiations—obtains the Surdeshpandeegeree of the Deccan.—Nizam Ool Moolk resolves on assisting the Emperor against the Mahrattas.—Preparations of the Moghuls—and of Bajee Rao.—Sadut Khan drives the Mahrattas across the Jumna.—Bajee Rao appears at the gates of Delhi—operations—retires—returns to the Deccan.—Circumstances regarding Angria, which led to a war with the Portuguese, and the invasion of Salsette.—The Peishwa is called off to Malwa, to oppose Nizam Ool Moolk—who, joined by the imperial army, advances from Delhi.—Bajee Rao surrounds Nizam Ool Moolk at Bhopaul—forces him into terms—their nature.—Prosecution of hostilities against the Portuguese—conduct of the English—its causes—progress of the Mahrattas.—War between the Peishwa and Rughoojee Bhonslay.—Disastrous intelligence from Delhi, occasioned by the arrival and proceedings of Nadir Shah.—Chimnajee Appa prosecutes a successful war against the Portuguese.—Memorable siege of Bassein.—Nadir Shah retires from Delhi . . . . . . pp. 383-405

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CHAPTER XVI.

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FROM A.D. 1739 TO A.D. 1740.

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The government of Malwa not formally conceded to Bajee Rao as promised by Nizam Ool Moolk.—The Peishwa’s arrangements in Malwa and Bundelcund, previous to attempting the conquest of the Deccan.—Motives which deterred and prompted the Peishwa.—Rughoojee Bhonslay is induced to undertake an expedition into the Carnatic.—The Peishwa attacks Nasir Jung—plans frustrated at the outset—departs for Hindoostan.—Chimnajee Appa recalled into the Concan to support Ballajee Bajee Rao.—Operations against Sumbhajee Angria—interrupted by intelligence of the death of Bajee Rao.—Brief retrospect of the rise and progress of the Mahrattas.—State of the Moghul empire, and of the powers in India.—Imperial court.—Nabob of Oude.—Rajpoots.—Origin of the Jhats—of Aliverdy Khan—of the Rohillas.—State of the Deccan and Carnatic.—Nabobs of Arcot—Kurnoul—Kurpa—and Savanoor.—Tanjore—English—French and Portuguese.—Raja of Soonda.—Dessaye of Carwar—Mysore.—Artificial revenue system of the Mahrattas—Remarks on.—Character of Bajee Rao—His sons Ballajee Bajee Rao—Rugonath Rao—Jenardin Bawa, and Shumsher Buhadur . . . . . . . pp. 406-419

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CHAPTER XVII.

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FROM A.D. 1740 TO A.D. 1749.

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Operations of the Mahrattas in the Carnatic.—Rughoojee Bhonslay endeavours without success to prevent the accession of Ballajee Bajee Rao as Peishwa.—A new governor appointed to Malwa.—Peishwa’s petitions to the Emperor.—Death of Chimnajee Appa.—His son Sewdasheo Chimnajee Bhow.—The Peishwa obtains a grant from the Raja—importance attached to it at this period.—Bhaskur Punt invades the Bengal provinces.—The Peishwa reduces Gurrah and Mundelah.—Dummajee Gaekwar invades Malwa—retires.—Peishwa confirms Anund Rao Powar in the possession of Dhar.—Chouth of the whole of the imperial territory promised to the Peishwa.—Progress of Bhaskur Punt—is at last compelled by Aliverdy Khan to retreat.—Rughoojee Bhonslay, in person, invades Bengal.—The Peishwa, on promise of the government of Malwa and other advantages, supports Aliverdy Khan, and defeats the army of Rughoojee Bhonslay—obtains the government of Malwa—returns to Satara—is obliged to resign Bengal to Rughoojee Bhonslay, to prevent his combining with other chiefs against him.—Affairs of Nizam Ool Moolk.—Suppresses the rebellion of his son Nasir Jung.—Proceeds to the Carnatic—arrangements.—Rughoojee Bhonslay’s troops renew their incursions into Bengal.—Bhaskur Punt with most of his principal officers treacherously murdered by Aliverdy Khan.—Deogurh and Chandah annexed to the territory of Rughoojee Bhonslay.—Peishwa’s proceedings.—Expedition into the Carnatic under Sewdasheo Chimnajee.—Specific agreement with the Rajas of Bundelcund.—Rise of Ahmed Shah Abdallee—his first invasion of Hindoostan—is repulsed by the imperial army, and retreats to Cabul.—Death of the Emperor Mohummud Shah.—Accession of his son Ahmed Shah.—Death of Nizam Ool Moolk.—Revolutions in the Carnatic.—Nasir Jung with a vast army proceeds to that quarter.—Important domestic arrangements of the Mahrattas.—Discovery of Ram Raja.—Plots and intrigues at Satara during the last illness of Shao.—Important deed consigned to the Peishwa.—Ballajee’s proceedings on the death of the Raja.—Base manner in which he compasses the destruction of Suckwar Bye Sirkay . . . pp. 420-444

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CHAPTER XVIII.

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FROM A.D. 1750 TO A.D. 1754.

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The Peishwa secures Rughoojee Bhonslay in his interest.—Poona becomes the capital of the Mahrattas.—Arrangements made by the Peishwa on the will of the late Raja.—Insurrection of Yemmajee Sewdeo—suppressed by Sewdasheo Rao Bhow.—Agreement of Sangola between the Raja and the Peishwa.—A difference arises between the Peishwa and Sewdasheo Rao Bhow.—Origin and progress of Ramchundur Baba Shenwee.—The Peishwa supports Ghazee-ud-deen, the eldest son of Nizam Ool Moolk.—Death and character of Nasir Jung.—Muzuffir Jung, supported by the French, assumes the viceroyalty of the Deccan.—Rise of Raja Rugonath Dass and Hyder Jung.—Death of Muzuffir Jung.—Elevation of Sulabut Jung.—The Peishwa, for the purpose of opposing Sulabut Jung and M. Bussy, proceeds to the Kistna, but is suddenly recalled to Satara, in consequence of an attempt to supersede his authority on the part of Tara Bye, supported by Dummajee Gaekwar.—Gaekwar circumvented—treacherously seized and imprisoned.—Tara Bye retains possession of the fort.—Rigid captivity of the Raja.—Peishwa attacks Sulabut Jung.—War carried into the Mahratta country.—Moghul army directed by Bussy, penetrates as far as Korygaom on the Beema.—Negotiation broken off—renewed.—Armistice concluded.—Raja Rugonath Dass assassinated.—Successful operations of Rughojee Bhonslay.—Death of Meer Hubeeb.—Affairs at the imperial court.—Abdallee.—Rohillas.—Holkar and Sindia, called in by the Nabob of Oude, to assist in subduing the Rohillas—conquest effected.—Holkar recalled to the Deccan—his march suspended.—Approach of the Abdallee.—Mahrattas evacuate the Rohilla territory.—Mooltan and Lahore ceded to the Abdallee.—Ghazee-ud-deen, accompanied by Sindia and Holkar, commences his march for the Deccan.—Proceedings of Sulabut Jung.—Syud Lushkur Khan and Shah Nuwaz Khan brought into power.—Arrival of Ghazee-ud-deen at Aurungabad.—Extensive cessions granted by him to the Peishwa.—Ghazee-ud-deen is poisoned.—Sulabut Jung confirms the cessions made to the Peishwa.—Intrigues of Syud Lushkur Khan against the French.—Cessions made to the French for the support of their subsidiary force.—Affairs at Satara.—Expedition into the Carnatic and Guzerat.—History of Guzerat from the year 1735, until the capture of Ahmedabad in 1755.—Rugonath Rao proceeds to Hindoostan, and returns to Poona in the ensuing year.—The Peishwa sends another expedition into the Carnatic.—Death of Rughojee Bhonslay—his sons.—Janojee succeeds as Sena Sahib Soobeh.—Affairs accommodated between the Peishwa and Tara Bye.—Progress of Janojee Bhonslay.—Affairs at Delhi.—Meer Shahabodeen, son of the late Ghazee-ud-deen—his rise and progress at the imperial court—his unprincipled conduct—calls in the aid of the Mahrattas—is appointed Vizier—deposes the Emperor—deprives him of sight—and raises Jehander Shah to the Throne.

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CHAPTER XIX.

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FROM A.D. 1755 TO A.D. 1756.

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The Peishwa’s troops, assisted by the English, reduce a part of Angria’s territory.—The Peishwa proceeds against Savanoor.—A secret plot between the Peishwa and Shah Nuwaz Khan alluded to.—Particulars of the connexion between Ballajee Bajee Rao and the English—their views on Surat.—Expedition against Angria under Commodore James. Capture of Severndroog.—Dastardly conduct of the Mahratta fleet.—Second expedition against Angria under Ramajee Punt and Khundojee Mankur, on the part of the Peishwa; and under Admiral Watson and Colonel Clive, on the part of the English.—Previous successes of the Mahrattas.—Siege and capture of Gheriah.—Reprehensible conduct of the English in regard to the prize property.—They endeavour to retain possession of Gheriah.—Siege and reduction of Savanoor.—Plot developed.—M. Bussy’s corps dismissed from the service of Sulabut Jung.—Bussy marches from Savanoor towards Mausulipatam—takes post at Hyderabad—is reinforced.—Influence re-established with Sulabut Jung.—Negotiation between the Bombay government and the Peishwa.—Treaty of Poona, A.D. 1756 . pp. 476-490

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CHAPTER XX.

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FROM A.D. 1756 TO A.D. 1760.

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Rugonath Rao proceeds on an expedition to Hindoostan.—Object of Ballajee Rao in his late treaty with the English.—Expedition to the Carnatic.—Attack on Seringapatam.—Affairs compromised.—District of Sera retaken—the Peishwa returns to Poona.—Proceedings of Bulwunt Rao Mendlee, left in the Carnatic for the purpose of prosecuting the Peishwa’s views.—Battle of Kuddapah.—Conduct of the Mysore government acting on the suggestions of Hyder Ally.—Designs of the Peishwa on Bednore and Mysore prevented by affairs of the Hyderabad court.—Plot for effecting a revolution, and expelling the French—particulars of that conspiracy, and of the circumstances connected with it.—Murder of Hyder Jung.—Death of Shah Nuwaz Khan.—Flight of Nizam Ally to Burhanpoor.—Bussy recalled to Pondicherry.—Remarkable instance of credulity in the Bombay Government.—The English obtain possession of Surat Castle.—Proceedings of the Mahrattas in the Carnatic.—Proceedings of Nizam Ally—is attacked by Janojee Bhonslay, at the instigation of Busalut Jung.—Nizam Ally is courted by the English.—Obtains the office of prime minister.—Sewdasheo Rao Bhow the minister of the Peishwa—his character—dissensions in the Peishwa’s family.—Altercation with Rugonath Rao.—Muzuffir Khan employs an assassin to murder Sewdasheo Rao—the assassin is seized and executed with his employer.—Ahmednugur betrayed into the hands of the Mahrattas.—Sewdasheo Rao takes command of the army, and Rugonath Rao becomes prime minister.—War with the Moghuls in the Deccan.—Cessions acquired by the Mahrattas as the price of peace.—Reflections on the pre-eminence to which the Mahrattas had attained.—Reverses in Hindoostan—affairs in that quarter. pp. 491-509

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CHAPTER XXI.

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FROM A.D. 1760 TO A.D. 1761.

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Meer Shahabodeen seizes Mooltan and Lahore—is promptly expelled by Ahmed Shah, who advances into Hindoostan, plunders Delhi and Muttra, but is compelled to retire in consequence of a pestilence.—Meer Shahabodeen calls in the aid of Rugonath Rao against the Emperor and Nujeeb-ud-dowlah—recovers possession of Delhi and of the Emperor’s person.—Rugonath Rao conquers Mooltan and Lahore for the Peishwa—appoints Adina Beg Sur-Soobehdar, supported by the troops of Sindia—account of the sons of Ranoojee Sindia.—Duttajee is summoned from Rohilcund, which he had invaded at the instigation of Meer Shahabodeen, to oppose the Abdallee.—Meer Shahabodeen puts the Emperor Alumgeer the Second to death.—Abdallee recovers Mooltan and Lahore—advance on Delhi—surprise Sindia’s division—Duttajee and Jooteba are killed—Holkar surprised and routed.—Sewdasheo Rao Bhow marches from the Deccan to oppose the Afghans—is joined by large armies on his advance—takes possession of Delhi.—Rajpoots and Jhats withdraw from the confederacy.—Sewdasheo Rao proclaims Mirza Juwan Bukht Emperor—storms Kunjpoora.—Ahmed Shah crosses the Jumna—events from October till January.—Battle of Panniput, where the Mahrattas sustain a dreadful defeat—barbarity of the Afghans—consequences of the disastrous intelligence in Maharashtra.—Death and character of Ballajee Bajee Rao.—State of the country under his government.

v1.c4.60

CHAPTER XXII.

v1.c4.61

FROM A.D. 1761 TO A.D. 1766.

v1.c4.62

Mahdoo Rao Bullal invested as Peishwa.—Death of Tara Bye.—Prospect of war with Nizam Ally.—Rugonath Rao, as regent, negotiates with the English.—Settlement of a dispute respecting the Seedee of Jinjeera.—Party dissensions among the Mahrattas.—Nizam Ally attacks their territory—destruction of the temples at Toka.—Moghuls advance towards Poona—vigorous opposition—treaty concluded.—Dispute between Rugonath Rao and Mahdoo Rao—the former retires to Aurungabad, and returns supported by the Moghuls.—Submission of Mahdoo Rao—motives.—The proceedings of Rugonath Rao occasion general discontent.—Nizam Ally breaks the treaty, and, assisted by Janoojee, attempts the subversion of the Bramin government.—Poona is plundered and partially burnt.—Rugonath Rao makes an attempt on Hyderabad—returns to the Mahratta territory.—Janoojee is detached from the confederacy.—Moghul army defeated with prodigious slaughter—peace concluded at Aurungabad.—Mahdoo Rao reproves Janoojee for his treachery.—Rise of Hyder Ally—his conquests—is opposed by Mahdoo Rao.—Judicious and successful operations of the young Peishwa—defeats Hyder with severe loss.—Negotiations—entrusted to Rugonath Rao—treaty.—Offensive alliance between the Peishwa and Nizam against Janoojee.—Janoojee is compelled to restore three-fourths of the districts received as the price of his treachery.—State of the English in India at this period.—Many of the principal events which led to their ascendancy, blended with the Mahrātta history.—Author’s views in the intended description of these events.—The records of the governments of India afford the best historical materials in the world—observations.

v1.c4.63

CHAPTER XXIII.

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FROM A.D. 1766 TO A.D. 1772.

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Conquest may be too slow as well as too rapid—a middle course adopted by the English.—Proposals for expelling Janojee Bhonslay from Kuttack.—Views of the Court of Directors on the East and West of India.—Occupation of Rajamundree.—Alliance with Nizam Ally—objects.—Mahdoo Rao enters the Carnatic, levies tribute from Hyder, and returns to Poona.—New treaty between Nizam Ally and the English.—Rugonath Rao proceeds on an expedition into Hindoostan.—Death of Mulhar Rao Holkar—his widow Aylah Bye appoints Tookajee Holkar to the command of her army.—Rana of Gohud—his rise—rebellious proceedings.—Rugonath Rao fails in an attempt to reduce him—accepts a tribute, and returns to Poona—jealousy and distrust towards his nephew—retires from Poona, and supported by Holkar, Janoojee Bhonslay, and Dummajee Gaekwar, rebels against him.—Curious anecdote of Mahdoo Rao.—Rebellion crushed, and Rugonath Rao placed in confinement.—Mahdoo Rao forms an alliance with Nizam Ally against Janojee—conceals his real design with great political artifice—effect on the English and Hyder—invades Berar—plunders Nagpoor—judicious conduct of Janojee—ravages the Peishwa’s territory.—Mahdoo Rao is compelled to raise the siege of Chandah and return to oppose Janojee—Janojee avoids an action, and cuts off a part of the Peishwa’s baggage—treaty of Kunkapoor.—The Peishwa sends an expedition to Hindoostan under Visajee Kishen Beneewalla—anecdote relative to Mahadajee Sindia.—Mahdoo Rao’s endeavours to improve the civil government.—Ram Shastree—account of—anecdote—admirable character.—The practice of forcing villagers to carry baggage abolished.—Encroachments of Hyder.—The Peishwa proceeds against him—reduces a large tract of territory.—Anecdote of the rival Ghatgays at the storming of Mulwugul—obstinate defence of Nidjeeghul—operations continued.—Mahdoo Rao is compelled to leave the army from ill health.—Trimbuck Rao Mama prosecutes the war—defeats Hyder, who loses the whole of his artillery, camp, equipage, etc.—Seringapatam besieged—peace concluded—motives and terms.—Proceedings in Hindoostan.—Affairs at the imperial court since the battle of Panniput.—The Emperor seeks and obtains the protection of the English.—The East India Company appointed Dewan to the Nabob of Bengal.—Affairs at Delhi.—

v1.c4.66

Visajee Kishen levies tribute from the Rajpoots—defeats the Jhats near Bhurtpoor.—Nujeeb-ud-dowlah negotiates with the Mah-rattas—reference to the Peishwa—overtures admitted—death of Nujeeb-ud-dowlah.—The Mahrattas invade Rohilcund.—The Emperor quits the protection of the English, and is re-instated on his throne by the Mahrattas.—The Mahrattas overrun the territory of Zabita Khan.—Policy of Shujah-ud-dowlah in regard to the Rohillas—on receiving a subsidy, concludes a defensive alliance with them.—Insolence and rapacity of the Mahratta Bramins.—The Emperor, assisted by Nujeef Khan, determines to throw off their yoke.—Death of Mahdoo Rao—his character—account of his civil administration—general review of the interior management and state of the country and people, including the police—civil and criminal justice—finance—army . . . . . pp. 551-585

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MAP OF SOUTH-WESTERN AND PART OF CENTRAL INDIA *At end of Vol. II*

Introduction

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CONTAINING

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I. MEMOIR OF THE AUTHOR. II. ‘A HISTORY OF THE MAHRATTAS.’ III. THE ORIGIN OF THE MARĀTHĀS. IV. MARĀTHĪ LITERATURE. V. SYNOPSIS OF EDITIONS OF GRANT DUFF’S WORK VI. LIST OF AUTHORITIES CONSULTED FOR THE PRESENT EDITION.

I. Memoir of James Cuninghame Grant Duff

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JAMES GRANT, known later as James Cuninghame Grant Duff, was the eldest son of John Grant, of Kincardine O’Neil, and his wife Margaret Miln Duff, heiress of the Duffs of Eden, Banffshire, and was born in the town of Banff on July 8, 1789. After his father’s death in 1799, his mother moved to Aberdeen, and there, at the Marischal College, Grant received his education. He was designed for the East India Company’s civil service; but impatient at the prospect of delay in obtaining an appointment, he accepted an infantry cadetship on the Bombay establishment in 1805, and arrived in India early in 1806. On his way to India he was wrecked off Cape St. Roque in Brazil, and had the misfortune to lose everything he possessed, including his family papers. He was present at the taking of the Cape of Good Hope by the expedition under Baird in 1806, where his patriotism was stirred by seeing three Highland regiments leap to their feet and advance to the strains of the ‘Rothiemurchus rant.’ On this occasion he had another hairbreadth escape from drowning, by the capsizing of a boat-load of soldiers, and only saved himself by the skill in swimming which he had acquired in his early days at Banff.¹

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¹ Extract from the *Book of the Duffs*, p. 498, by Taylor, 2 vols., 1914, kindly supplied by A. C. Grant Duff, Esq.

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After a period of study at the cadet establishment in Bombay, he obtained a commission as Ensign on April 23, 1807, and was posted to the 1st Battalion of the 1st Bombay Native Infantry (Bombay Grenadiers). In July, 1808, he took part with his regiment in the storming of Mālia, a fortified stronghold of freebooters in Kāthiāwār, where he displayed conspicuous gallantry. Two years later he was promoted to the rank of lieutenant, and became adjutant and interpreter of his regiment, in which, by reason of his knowledge and capacity, he exercised a greater influence than his seniority indicated. This preferment nearly involved him in a duel with a brother officer. While still a lieutenant he attracted the notice of Mountstuart Elphinstone, then Resident at the court of the Pēshwā in Poona, and became, together with Captain Pottinger, his assistant and devoted friend. Elphinstone had no mean opinion of his capabilities, and spoke of him in later years as ‘a man of much ability and, what is more, much good sense.’

v1.c5.s1.4

Grant was with Mountstuart Elphinstone at Poona in November 1817, when the final struggle with the Pēshwā took place, and is mentioned in Colonel Burr’s dispatch, describing the engagement between his brigade and the Pēshwā’s army at Kirkee, as having ‘most handsomely volunteered his services’ as an orderly-officer on the Colonel’s staff, and as having ‘particularly distinguished himself throughout the action.’ From a letter, dated Bombay, April 24, 1822, from Mountstuart Elphinstone to Grant,¹ it is clear that the latter deserves the credit for launching the timely attack of Colonel Burr’s brigade. In his history Grant (i.e. Grant Duff) speaks of a messenger being dispatched to warn Colonel Burr of the enemy’s approach and to order him to attack the Pēshwā’s army, when Burr himself was disposed to act on the defensive. ‘As to the facts about Kirkee,’ wrote Elphinstone in the letter above mentioned, ‘the important thing is that Colonel Burr and I had talked the matter over most fully, and fixed most positively that if ever war broke out he was to begin by attacking the Mahrattas; and from this I never knew, till we were actively engaged, that he ever swerved. When we were going to cross the river, you proposed to me to desire Burr to advance. I forget in what terms I sanctioned the request, but my impression was that it was perfectly settled Burr was to advance, and that the moment he knew war was begun he would do so. It turned out that I was quite mistaken, and that Burr would not have stirred without an order; and we are therefore indebted to you for what happened.' In the lengthy operations against the Pēshwā Bājī Rāo in 1817–18, which terminated in his submission and the annexation of the Deccan and Southern Marāthā country, Grant took an active part in both a civil and military capacity. He is mentioned in Mountstuart Elphinstone's diary under date December 7, 1817, as having fought gallantly with Russell, Pottinger, Tovey and others in a smart skirmish with the Pēshwā's troops near Pandharpur, and he was often consulted by Elphinstone on problems connected with the settlement of the country.

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¹ Colebrooke, *Life of M. Elphinstone*, ii. 138.

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In 1818 Grant, who now held the rank of captain, was appointed Resident at Sātāra, his instructions being contained in a letter from Mountstuart Elphinstone, dated April 8, 1818. His remuneration was fixed at 2,000 rupees per mensem, with allowances aggregating 1,500 rupees per mensem in addition to the cost of his office establishment.¹ By a proclamation of April 11, 1818, Elphinstone invested Captain Grant with full powers for the arrangement of the affairs of the Sātāra State; and by a treaty of September 25, 1819, entered into with the Rājā Pratāp Singh, Grant was to administer the country in the name of the Rājā until 1822, and then transfer the entire administration to him and his state officials, who might be presumed to be fit by that time for the task. Grant carefully impressed upon the Rājā that intercourse with other princes, except such as were specifically mentioned in the treaty, would be punished with annexation of his territory, and he trained the young chief so successfully in habits of business that Pratāp Singh was given complete control in 1822.² Mountstuart Elphinstone described the Rājā in 1826 as ‘the most civilized Marāthā I ever met with, has his country in excellent order and everything, to his roads and aqueducts, in a style that would do credit to a European. I was more struck with his private sitting-room than anything I saw at Sātāra. It contains a single table, covered with green velvet, at which the descendant of Shivaji sits in a chair and writes letters, as well as a journal of his transactions, with his own hand. I do not know what his ancestor would think of so peaceful a descendant.'¹ For this result credit is mainly due to Grant, who not only instructed Pratāp Singh in the art of administration, but cultivated in him a taste for literary and general knowledge, and taught the value of refinement of character.² During his period of office as Resident Grant concluded treaties with the Sātāra jāgīrdārs or feudatories, namely with the Pant Sachiv, the Pant Pratīnidhī, and the chiefs of Daphle and Phaltan on April 22, 1820, and with the Rājā of Akalkot and Sheikh Waekar (i.e. the descendant of Sheikh Mīran of Wai) on July 3, 1820. The character of his administration is best described in the words of a Brahman writer of to-day, who is known throughout the Bombay Presidency as an ardent student of Marāthā history. ‘In addition to judgment, energy and talent for business of no ordinary kind, he (Grant) possessed in an eminent degree the power of appreciating the character of the people and adopting measures to suit their peculiarities, which made him popular with the Rājā and his rayats alike. The name of “Grant Sāheb” is still familiar as a household word in the Sātāra district.’³ Before he finally relinquished office Captain Grant obtained for the Rājā the restoration of the fort of Pratāpgarh, then in British possession, which contained the famous temple of Bhavānī, the family goddess of Sivājī and his descendants, and which the Rājā was particularly anxious on this account to include in his own possessions.⁴

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Linked texts (14)

Bhāgavatapurāṇa — Vyāsa, Sanskrit
Brahmapurāṇa — Vyāsa, Sanskrit
Jñāneśvarī — Jñāneśvara, Marathi
Mānava Dharmaśāstra — Manu & Bhṛgu, Sanskrit
Bhāvārtha Rāmāyaṇa — Eknāth 1570, Marathi
Mahābhārata — Vyāsa, Sanskrit
Harivijaya — Sarvasena, Māhārāṣṭrī Prakrit
Vālmīkirāmāyaṇa — Vālmīki, Sanskrit
Bhagavadgītā — Vyāsa, Sanskrit
Bhawani
Granth Sāhib — Gurū Arjun 1579, Hindi
Rāmvijay — Śrīdharācārya, Marathi
Śivalīlāmṛt — Śrīdharācārya, Marathi
Paramāmṛta — Mukundarāj, Marathi

A History of the Mahrattas v1: Volume 1

Contents

Volume 1

Front matter