Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The Maratha Empire, which emerged as a formidable power in the 18th century following the decline of the Mughals, eventually succumbed to internal strife and external pressures. The given statement aptly highlights a core reason for its eventual decline: the pervasive domestic dissensions embedded within its system, particularly under the Peshwas. While the Peshwas initially provided strong leadership, expanding Maratha influence significantly, their administrative and political structure inherently fostered rivalries and fragmentation. This internal fragility, rather than a monolithic external force, acted as a persistent corrosive agent, weakening the empire from within.
The Seeds of Dissension: Maratha System under the Peshwas
The transition of power from the Chhatrapati to the Peshwas, formalized by the Treaty of Sangola in 1750, marked a significant shift in the Maratha polity. While this initially brought administrative efficiency and military expansion, it simultaneously sowed deep seeds of domestic dissension through several interconnected factors:
- Usurpation of Chhatrapati's Authority: The Peshwas, initially chief ministers, gradually became the de facto rulers, relegating the Chhatrapati to a nominal head. This shift created a legitimacy crisis and underlying resentment among certain factions who remained loyal to the original Maratha royal house. This inherent power imbalance was a fundamental "seed" of discord.
- Formation of the Maratha Confederacy: To manage the vast territorial expansion, Baji Rao I initiated the Maratha Confederacy. This decentralized system, while facilitating expansion, granted considerable autonomy to powerful regional chiefs like the Scindias (Gwalior), Holkars (Indore), Gaekwads (Baroda), and Bhonsles (Nagpur). While acknowledging Peshwa supremacy, these chiefs often pursued their own territorial ambitions and rivalries.
- Inter-Confederacy Rivalries: The semi-independent nature of the confederacy led to constant feuds and power struggles among these Maratha sardars. For example, the rivalry between the Holkars and the Scindias often turned into open hostilities, draining resources and preventing a united front against external threats. These internal conflicts were evident even after the devastating Third Battle of Panipat in 1761.
- Weak Central Authority Post-Madhavrao I: After the death of the capable Peshwa Madhavrao I in 1772, the central authority at Poona significantly weakened. Later Peshwas, like Baji Rao II, lacked the vision and leadership of their predecessors, becoming indecisive and prone to court intrigues. This leadership vacuum exacerbated existing divisions.
- Jagirdari System and Feudal Tendencies: The extensive Jagirdari system meant that loyalty was often fragmented, with regional sardars prioritizing their assigned jagirs over the collective Maratha state. The collection of Chauth and Sardeshmukhi, rather than promoting cohesive administration, often became a means of resource extraction, leading to economic strain and local discontent.
- Caste Tensions and Social Exclusivity: Shivaji's vision of an inclusive 'Hindavi Swarajya' was gradually diluted. Under later Peshwas, there was a shift towards a Brahmin-dominated oligarchy, with administrative and military positions becoming exclusive to upper castes. This created social exclusion and resentment among other communities, further fragmenting society.
These deeply embedded domestic dissensions prevented the Marathas from consolidating their vast empire and presenting a unified, strong front against rising external powers like the British East India Company, ultimately contributing significantly to their downfall.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the statement accurately captures the profound internal weaknesses within the Maratha system under the Peshwas. While the Peshwas achieved significant military and political successes, the very structure they fostered, characterized by a decentralized confederacy, ambitious regional chiefs, and a weakening central authority post-Madhavrao I, became a breeding ground for internal strife. These "seeds" of dissension, including power struggles, caste tensions, and fragmented loyalties, continually undermined Maratha unity and strength. This inherent domestic fragility rendered the empire vulnerable, making it easier for external forces, particularly the British, to exploit divisions and hasten its eventual collapse.
Answer Length
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