The Legacy of Shivaji the Great: Military Strategy, Naval Supremacy, and the Maratha Empire

by Anil Athale

In 1707, the last effective Mughal Emperor, Aurangzeb, died in Maharashtra, a frustrated man. Even after nearly twenty-two years of war, he failed to conquer the Marathas. With his death began the fall of the Mughal Empire that was to be replaced by the Marathas in Central India and parts of North India. In the early nineteenth century the British took over India not from the Mughals but from the Marathas. Under Shivaji the Great, with the heady aim of Hindavi Swarajya (Indian Self-Rule), the British saw the Marathas as the principal threat to their colonial project. The story of Maratha resistance to the British was therefore systematically swept under the carpet by the British. This book attempts to tell the untold story of that important period of Indian history.

358 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 26, 2023

Reviews

[Ankur Chaudhary · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best part of this book is the research that author has done to write this book, it not only reflects in his writing but he has also shared all those details in this book. The author himself is a renowned war historian and NDA alumnus.
The books covers the history of the Maratha empire from the beginning and strategies and ways of working of Shivaji Maharaja. Author has done a great work in explaining how Shivaji Maharaj succeeded despite Aurangzeb being at the helm of Mughal empire at that time. It also covers the Peshwa period in detail and the last leg of the Maratha empire when Nana Phadnavis took charge.
This book unravels many details of the Anglo-Maratha relationship with strong focus on Anglo-Maratha wars.
Do read it if you want to deep dive into Maratha history from neutral perspective. Author has done a commendable job.

[Mili Das · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Legacy Of SHIVAJI The Great
Author - Col. Anil Athale
Genre - History/Governance Administration/Warfare
Rating 5/5

The Legacy Of SHIVAJI The Great by Col. Anil Athale is an immaculately researched account of the great Maratha ruler Shivaji who was passionate about his independent kingdom, celebrated for his expertise in military, and loved for Religious tolerance, adored for igniting yearning for swaraj. Installation of Guerrilla warfare was the distinguished style that he accomplished with utter brilliance that led to the development of fort architectural planning and challenging dominance of the Mughals establishment and British rulers. From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, every Indian heart swelled up to thinking about this great Maratha leader and feel proud. He is still alive in the Indian heart.

This book is rooted in understanding the Maratha warrior's skills and tactics that are waiting to unfold for more discussions and scrutinizing every detail.
It's an outcome of hard work that is trying to understand the Maratha Visionary who was way ahead of his time.

Research work for this book took place under the guidance of General Palit Military History fellowship of the Parrikar Institute of Defence Studies and Analysis which influenced me to get through this book and make me feel interested as the given information about the warfare would be vigorously researched and well built throughout.

The book not only focuses on the Maratha legend but is looking for an answer - "Why did the Marathas, who fought the Mughals so Valiantly, succumbed to the British so tamely?" Uncovering various events, planning, and strategic implementations, the thought processes of leaders have been deciphered from scattered letters written by Shivaji or the corresponding generals skillfully weaved from the author's pen.

It was a challenging and still exciting journey to making history alive again in front of new generation readers when everything, almost everything was being destroyed by the Mughals in 1689. It was a devastating day in Indian history when 19th October 1689, Zulfiqar Khan seized the capital Raigad. Historians see this act as destructive as a repeat of the burning of Nalanda University and its library in 1193 by Bakhtiyar Khilji. This revelation created a powerful ambiance in reading, and if you love reading history or literary pieces on governance administration then you will feel chills running down your spine.

The book stands for the author's incredibly hard work to understand the Maratha militant and their war execution process. It's very evocative reading about war tactics, planning on political alliances, and other major notes and maps, yes, the author presented maps for every war, he meticulously gathered every tiny piece of detail that took place 600 years ago, in the author's wise erudite.
To match the scattered pieces of puzzles after centuries when information dissolved in the midst of disasters, the author's ability and patience for this humongous research work, are praiseworthy.

It's an important research work to understand failures and loopholes, an exhaustive informational book full of knowledge and experience that is perfect for history lovers, and undoubtedly a great contribution to political administration and literature on warfare.

[Tanay Kapse · Rating 5 out of 5]

📖 Overview:
"The Legacy of Shivaji the Great" delves into a crucial period of Indian history, telling the untold story of Maratha resistance to the British colonization. Authored by Col. Anil Athale, the book sheds light on the decline of the Mughal Empire and the rise of the Marathas, led by the visionary leader Shivaji the Great. It explores their military strategy, naval supremacy, and their significant role in shaping India's history.

💭 Review:
Col. Anil Athale's "The Legacy of Shivaji the Great" is a meticulously researched and compelling account of a pivotal era in Indian history. The author's comprehensive exploration of the Maratha Empire's resistance to the British colonial project offers readers a valuable perspective often neglected in mainstream narratives.

🌟 Unveiling the Forgotten:
Athale uncovers the hidden story of Maratha resistance, shedding light on the crucial role played by Shivaji the Great and his vision of Hindavi Swarajya (Indian Self-Rule). This book serves as a powerful reminder of the Marathas' significance and their impact on shaping the trajectory of Indian history.

✨ Military Strategy and Naval Supremacy:
"The Legacy of Shivaji the Great" offers a deep dive into the military strategy and naval prowess of the Marathas. Athale's meticulous research and vivid storytelling provide readers with an insightful understanding of how the Marathas challenged the British and became a formidable force in Central India and parts of North India.

💭 Rich Historical Context:
Athale weaves together historical facts and narratives to create a vivid backdrop for readers. From the decline of the Mughal Empire to the British colonization, the author provides a comprehensive overview of the political and social dynamics of the time. This contextualization enhances the readers' understanding of the Marathas' struggles and achievements.

[Avinash Ahuja · Rating 5 out of 5]

Col. Anil Athale's "The Legacy of Shivaji the Great" is a captivating delve into a pivotal period of Indian history often overlooked in mainstream narratives. Anil expertly brings to light the untold story of Maratha resistance to British colonialism, shedding light on the significant role Shivaji and the Marathas played in shaping India's destiny.

🎇 Highlights: 

The book vividly portrays the indomitable spirit of Shivaji and his vision of Hindavi Swarajya, Indian self-rule, which posed a formidable threat to British colonial ambitions. Anil meticulously explores the political landscape of the time, unraveling the complexities of Maratha-British relations and the strategic maneuvers that defined this era.

🧠 Closing Thoughts: 

"The Legacy of Shivaji the Great" is a must-read for anyone passionate about Indian history. Anil's narrative is both enlightening and engaging, offering a fresh perspective on the struggle for independence. This book serves as a timely reminder of the resilience and courage of those who fought against colonial oppression, leaving behind a lasting legacy for generations to come.

💫 Favorite Quote: 

"History is not just about the past; it is a living testament to the struggles and triumphs of our ancestors."

[Janvi Santwani · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Legacy of Shivaji The Great" is a captivating journey into the untold history of Maratha resistance against British colonialism. Athale skillfully unravels the pivotal role played by Shivaji in shaping the destiny of India. The narrative sheds light on the often overlooked era when the Marathas, under Shivaji's leadership, emerged as a formidable force challenging the mighty Mughal Empire and later becoming a significant threat to the British colonial project.

Col. Anil Athale's meticulous research brings forth a narrative that was intentionally sidelined by the British. The author's dedication to unveiling the hidden chapters of Indian history is commendable, offering readers a fresh perspective on the power dynamics during that crucial period. Athale's insightful analysis and engaging storytelling make this book a must-read for history enthusiasts and anyone eager to delve into the lesser-known facets of India's past.

Overall "The Legacy of Shivaji The Great" not only honors the remarkable legacy of Shivaji but also serves as a crucial reminder of the resilience and courage displayed by the Marathas in the face of colonial challenges. Col. Anil Athale has masterfully crafted a historical narrative that demands attention and appreciation.

[Anoop Rai · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very detailed illustration of the Maratha Empire . Empires rise and fall. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj detailed strategy on war , How fall of Maratha Naval base paved the way for the rise of East India company.many such research explained beautifully by Colonel sir. Must read for History Saviours.