The transfer of power to the Peshwas transitioned the Maratha state from a centralized monarchy into a dynamic confederacy. By delegating authority to capable military commanders, the Peshwas incentivized them to conquer new territories in North and Central India. This ...
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Chhatrapati Shahu I (reign 1707–1749) was the last Maratha ruler to enjoy full sovereign powers. Although he delegated administrative and military authority to the Peshwas, the power still rested with him. After his death, the power was completely formalized in ...
The central secretariat of the Maratha government, particularly under the Peshwas in Pune, was known as the ‘Huzur Daftar’ or simply the ‘Phad’. It was a highly sophisticated administrative hub where all land records, revenue accounts and official correspondence were ...
‘Sardeshmukhi’ constituted 10% of the revenue. Shivaji collected this levy based on his claim to be the hereditary Sardeshmukh (chief headman) of the Maratha territory. It was primarily a claim of paramountcy or sovereign right, distinguished from Chauth, which was ...
Emperor Akbar established the new, centralized administrative post of ‘Diwan-e-Wizarat-e-Kul’. This office was the head of the entire revenue and finance administration, primarily held by Raja Todar Mal. The creation of this single, powerful post solidified financial control and ensured ...