History of Aurangzib, Based on Original Sources v5.c80.s2.5

v5.c80.s2.5

This contemporary observer tries to account for the dissolution of government thus: "When after the death of Shivaji his dominions passed on to Shambhuji, the system of the Maratha Government paying salaries to its officials disappeared. Rajaram, who succeeded Shambhuji, lost his capital (Raigarh) and had to flee to Jinji. So, the Maratha State servants supported themselves by plundering on all sides, and paying a small part of their booty to the king.... In despair of getting their monthly salaries regularly, they regarded the plunder of Mughal territory as a gain and a means of maintaining themselves." [Dil. ii. 140a.]