The Rise of the Marathas | Class 8 Social Science Notes

Maratha Administration

Chhatrapati Shivaji established a relatively centralized administration for his kingdom. Unlike the hereditary offices common under the Sultans and Mughals, Shivaji abolished hereditary posts and land grants, instead paying salaries to government officials from the state treasury. Officials were periodically transferred to prevent them from gaining excessive local power. Shivaji also cared for soldiers' families by providing pensions to widows and military posts to their sons. The administration was assisted by the Ashta Pradhāna Mandala, a council of eight ministers responsible for various aspects of governance. The Marathas levied taxes called chauth (25%) and sardeshmukhi (an additional 10%) on provinces not directly under their control. In return, they provided protection without interfering in internal administration. The Mughals recognized this arrangement through treaties, and some provinces eventually became part of the Maratha Empire. Shivaji minted coins in gold and copper bearing his name and used the Devanagari script, asserting cultural identity and sovereignty. The Maratha military was divided into infantry, cavalry, and navy. Cavalry soldiers were either bargirs, paid by the state, or shiledars, who provided their own horses and equipment. By the 18th century, the Marathas adopted European-style disciplined troops and artillery. Weapons included swords, lances, guns, and rockets, with metal tube rockets used by 1770. Forts were central to Maratha power, serving as strategic defense points and bases for guerrilla warfare. Shivaji controlled and built many forts, which helped the state survive invasions, as explained by his finance minister Ramachandrapant Amatya. Maritime supremacy was maintained by the navy established by Shivaji and later led by Kanhoji Angre, who won many naval battles despite technological disadvantages. The Marathas challenged European naval dominance by demanding trade passes from European ships, reversing the usual practice. The judicial system was efficient and moderate, with local panchāyats delivering justice and appeals possible to higher authorities. Police forces like the kotwāl maintained law and order in towns. Shivaji encouraged trade, participated in maritime commerce, and maintained roads, bridges, and riverine transport networks.

📊 Diagram: Fig. 3.12 shows coins minted by Shivaji in gold and copper with Devanagari inscriptions. Fig. 3.13 depicts the Ashta Pradhāna Mandala, the council of eight ministers. Fig. 3.15 illustrates various weapons used by the Marathas including swords, lances, and firearms.

🧪 Activity: Students are encouraged to design a Maratha coin representing their achievements and values, explaining the symbols chosen.

🔗 Connection: This section connects to the next by explaining the Maratha cultural revival and legacy influenced by their administration and military strength.