The Military System of the Marathas, with a Brief Account of Their Maritime Activities c5.82

c5.82

⁴ Lal Kavi wrote of Shivaji in the following terms: ‘From the time that Ourungzeb ascended the throne, a great persecution of the Hindoos commenced; their temples were pulled down; their places of religious resort destroyed; their images mutilated; and a tax was levied on every house. The Rajpoots of the adjacent country were conquered, made obedient to the Emperor, and powerful armies were sent against those who resisted his commands. All were reduced to submission except one Raja, named Sheo Raj, who set a noble example of heroism and independence, overran eleven provinces, levied contributions, seized the Soo-bahdars, and destroyed the imperial troops, whose efforts he successfully continued to repel.’ Chhatra Prakash, Canto XI. Pogson, A History of the Boondelas, pp. 51-2.