New History of the Marathas v2.c24.s2.77

v2.c24.s2.77

6. Contemporary opinion.—Writes Malhar Ramrao Chitnis, “Shahu by his kind and obliging disposition, attracted the love of all his subjects; every one supposed that he alone had the full measure of his master's favour. He freely rewarded whatever service was rendered to the State, by means of inams, stipends or gifts, carefully concealing the shortcomings of his officers and servants, and making the highest use of their good and strong points. He fully realized how his father Sambhaji had injured the interests of the State by his cruel ways, by harshly punishing the various qualified servants whom the great Shivaji had with immense pains reared. Shahu in his policy avoided all harsh measures and invariably employed soft and conciliatory means to gain the hearts of his people. He evinced great regard for the Hindu gods and holy Brahmans, passed his time in the company of gifted and qualified servants, avoiding levity and low associations. He carefully continued the inams and gifts previously enjoyed for temples and holy purposes. He picked up men of merit and turned them to the highest service of the Maratha State. The poorest had free access to him and received quick and impartial justice. He never disregarded even the lowest applicant. On his tours he stopped his palanquin or horse whenever he saw any one making an appeal to him. He disliked harsh and cruel punishments : even in cases of murder his kindly heart revolted against inflicting the capital punishment, such as dropping a criminal from a high precipice."