The Maratha rule in Chhattisgarh, lasting from 1741 to 1845, marked a significant period of transition in the region's history. This era saw the end of the long-reigning Kalchuri dynasty and the introduction of Maratha administrative and political systems. While the Marathas brought about some stability and development, their rule was also characterized by internal conflicts and economic exploitation, ultimately leading to their decline.
The Rise of Maratha Power
The Marathas, under the leadership of Raghoji Bhonsle of Nagpur, entered Chhattisgarh in 1741. The declining Kalchuri dynasty, weakened by internal strife and succession disputes, proved to be an easy target. Bhonsle's general, Bhaskar Pant, swiftly defeated the Kalchuri ruler Raghunath Singh, capturing the capital Ratanpur.
Although the Marathas initially installed a puppet ruler, Mohan Singh, they formally annexed Chhattisgarh in 1758 under Bimbaji Bhonsle. This marked the beginning of direct Maratha rule in the region.
Maratha Administration and Policies
The Marathas implemented a centralized administrative system in Chhattisgarh, dividing the region into parganas (districts) for efficient governance. Key features of their administration included:
Revenue Collection: Land revenue was the primary source of income. The Marathas introduced a new revenue system, with assessments based on land productivity. While this aimed to increase revenue, it often led to over-taxation and peasant discontent.
Military Organization: The Marathas maintained a strong military presence to control the region and defend against external threats. They recruited local soldiers and established garrisons at strategic locations.
Judicial System: The Marathas established a hierarchical judicial system with village headmen, panchayats, and regional courts. However, justice was often arbitrary and influenced by corruption.
Religious Policy: The Marathas, though Hindus themselves, largely followed a policy of religious tolerance towards the significant tribal and Muslim populations in Chhattisgarh. However, they did patronize Hindu temples and institutions.
Economic Impact
The Maratha rule had a mixed impact on Chhattisgarh's economy. While some infrastructure development, like roads and irrigation canals, took place, the region largely suffered from economic exploitation.
Heavy Taxation: The Maratha emphasis on revenue extraction led to high taxes on agriculture and trade, burdening the local population.
Plunder and Raids: The Maratha army often engaged in plunder and raids, especially during times of conflict, disrupting economic activities and causing hardship.
Decline of Handicrafts: The focus on revenue collection neglected the development of local industries and handicrafts, leading to their decline.
Decline of Maratha Rule
Several factors contributed to the decline of Maratha power in Chhattisgarh:
Internal Conflicts: Succession disputes and internal rivalries within the Bhonsle family weakened the Maratha administration and led to instability.
Rise of the British: The expanding British East India Company posed a growing threat to Maratha dominance. The Marathas faced a series of defeats in Anglo-Maratha wars, weakening their hold over Chhattisgarh.
Local Resistance: The oppressive policies of the Marathas, particularly heavy taxation and exploitation, led to growing discontent and resistance from local chiefs and tribal communities.
Administrative Weakness: Corruption, inefficiency, and lack of strong leadership plagued the Maratha administration, further contributing to their decline.
In 1845, the British annexed Chhattisgarh under the Doctrine of Lapse, bringing an end to Maratha rule. While the Maratha era saw some developments in administration and infrastructure, it was largely marked by economic exploitation and instability. The legacy of Maratha rule in Chhattisgarh remains a complex and contested one, with both positive and negative aspects.