Swarajya and Samrajya- A Compelling Story of the Epic Maratha Quest for Independence and Empire (1627-1818)

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This book is a synoptic presentation of the history of the Marathas - their rise against the Deccan sultans and Mughals in the early seventeenth century, their vision and sacrifices, their enduring strength, their internal dissensions, and finally their defeat by the British East India Company. Rise of the Maratha nation (Swarajya) contributed immensely towards shaping the destiny of the Indian sub-continent. Today's readers may find this interesting as it will help them understand an important piece of the mosaic that is modern India. The author has made every effort to present historical facts as recorded by various historians and eyewitness accounts including Maratha, Persian, European and British manuscripts, and records. The Marathas have recorded their history in Bakhars (chronicles) of which there are many. The author offers an unbiased account in a clear narrative and has refrained from offering opinions and interpretations or being judgmental about those facts. That job is left to the reader.

Recorded events remain undisputed facts of history. Maratha history being relatively recent, an important aspect of research such as archaeology does not take prominence as several original documents from various sources are available to historians. Historical events and personalities form the backbone of this narrative.

For the purposes of this book, the word "Maratha" refers to and includes all person's native to Maharashtra, regardless of religion or caste, who fought for "Swarajya" (independence) from the ruling sultans in the Deccan, the Mughals and the Afghans, and the Portuguese and English colonists. Similarly, the word "Mughal" broadly refers to all persons who came to the Indian sub-continent from Central Asia or Persia, and their descendants. It is important to note, that there were several Muslims who worked for the Marathas and had made valuable contributions to their cause. Similarly, there were many Hindus who had worked under the Mughals and the Deccan Sultans and had ably served their cause and interests.