HINDUS (Part 8)

HINDUS

(Part 8)

Dawn of British Raj in Hindustan:

After the defeat of Mughals, Peshwa Malhar Rao established majority Hindu Rule in the most parts of the Hindustan. British had to co-operate in spite of their dislikes. Maratha Empire was in again in power and peaceful Hindu Rule had banished forceful religious conversions and human slaughters. However, British were different kind of people. After demesne observation of Hindustan’s situation, they spotted a sensitive spots which could bring the entire Hindustan under their rule. Differences among the kinds and kingdoms. Despite the long-spread Maratha Empire, the Muslim Kingdoms were always wanted to rebel and Hindu Kingdoms wanted superiority. As long as British could reach the boundaries of Hindustan for trading, they very well observed the differences and made that their personal weapon to attack the heart of Hindustan. DIVIDE AND RULE. Due to the differences, kingdoms were easier to divide and then finally, to rule. British shook the hand of alliance with the kingdoms, dividing their unity and made them fight battles. After the end of immense power of Peshwas, Hindu rule was again being questioned. After 1800, British had alliance with almost all the kingdoms and had started their strategies, hidden from the rulers.

However, Hindus weren’t that fools. They knew what was happening. And Hindu soldiers working at East India Company knew that they were being tricked into the slavery of entire Hindustan. In early decades of 19^th century, British increased their pressure on kingdoms and started winning battles. They conquered kingdoms and looted the prosperity of empire. With the advanced European Technologies of gun, they succeeded to conquer the kingdoms who only knew to battle with swords, spears and tanks.

Yet, a soldier of East India Company vowed to protest against the British. He knew that British would again make each Hindustani a slave. Hindus had endured long slavery of Muslim Rules, they shall not endure this. After few of attempts to deny the advanced gun as a weapon, he became well-known in the entire Hindustan by 1856-57. Mangal Pandey.

In Jhansi, brave and young wife of King Gangadhar Rao, Lakshmibai had also started protesting against British, who did try to invade Jhansi. In 1857, as the result of the protest against British, Mangal Pandey was hanged publically, which was the symbol of commencement of British Rule in India. However, 29 year old Mangal Pandey left the immense inspiration for future freedom fighters. He became the first and respected martyr for India’s freedom.

Mangal Pandey

In 1858, Rani Lakshmibai also died at the young age of 29. But she became symbol for all the Indian women. The queen of Jhansi left motivation for the people to fight against the British Rule.

By the end of 1857, British had acquired entire Hindustan and began a brutal rule, in which all the Indians, regardless of their religions, were made slaves. 19^th century had been very cruel for all the Indians. Yet, there were people who wanted to see the nation free.

Indian National Congress (1885 - present)

In 1885, few of Indian and British people united and established an organization, named Indian National Congress, whose aim was to free India from the slavery of British. Many freedom fighters like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipinchandra Pal, Lala Lajpat Rai and Gopal Krishna Gokhle, etc joined the Indian National Congress for their core aim to free India.

In 1886, Dadabhai Navrozi was elected as the president of Indian National Congress. However, Bal Gangadhar Tilak and other fellows had clear aim of making a free Hindu Nation. And so, he started Ganpati Festivals to motivate Hindus to join the protest against British.

Indian National Congress was very well appreciated for their movements, and many famous freedom fighters frequently led them throughout the process of independence. By 1905, while Gokhle was leading the Congress, party was divided into two clear divisions. One of them was Lokmanya Tilak’s aim of Hindu Political Influence to make it Hindu Nation. Hindu Nationalism had become appreciated and criticized topic as well. Yet, the most common belief was to support Hindu Nationalism, as this land had always belonged to Hindus. So, it was very natural and appropriate belief of Hindu Nationalism. That disputed led many freedom fighters, supporting Hindu Nationalism, their ways out from Congress.

In the late 19^th century, Swami Vivekananda, the representative of Hindu Religion, also supported the idea of Hindu Nationalism. And after his death in 1902, his affiliations supported Hindu Nationalism as well.

Hindu Mahasabha

In 1905, Mohammad Ali Jinnah, a member of Indian National Congress, founded the All India Muslim League to protest the idea of Hindu Nationalism. And that sounded like a threat to Hindu Democracy. And Muslim league was the actual reason of current Hindu Nationalists Parties.

By 1908, due to Congress’s less support in Hindu Nationalism, Lala Lajpatrai and his fellow Arya Samaj leaders established Punjab Hindu Mahasabha at Lahore in 1909. Madan Mohan Malaviya led the first session of Hindu Mahasabha and motivated Hindus to join for Hindu Nationalism. Leading to this belief, many Hindu Leaders joined the mahasabha.

After few years, Punjab Hindu Mahasabha had spread its glory in entire India, and in 1915 the first All India Hindu Mahasabha was held at Haridwar. In which, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, who had just returned to India, also was present. Yet, he didn’t agree on the aim of Hindu Nationalism. His beliefs of non-violence and freedom for all would become viral in years. However, he stayed with Indian National Congress.

In 1920s, Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, founded the Hindu University at Banaras, to revive the Hindu Faith and religious studies. The Banaras Hindu University, more commonly known as Kashi Hindu Vishwa Vidhyalaya began.

In 1921, All India Hindu Mahasabha was officially renamed as Akhil Bhartiya Hindu Mahasabha. By then, a Muslim Leader, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, had made his view clear for separate nation for Muslims. Indian National Congress leaders could do nothing, but explain him to change his mind. Because, the idea of separation would itself shatter the unity and trust of Hindu-Muslim, which had come after genocide of centuries.

Akhil Bhartiya Hindu Mahasabha

Hindu Nationalism was a natural idea, because entire Indian Subcontinent was belonged to Hindus and it must be ruled by Hindu Democracy. To give separate nation to Muslim League was just like Hindus have to give their own land to Muslims, just because they couldn’t accept that they were living in Hindu Nation. They had no problem when Hindus lived under Muslim Rule for 750 years enduring genocide and demolition of temples, but living under Hindu Rule peacefully offended their idealism.

The leader of Hindu Mahasabha, Keshav Baliram Hegdewar thought this idea of separate nation as a big threat of Hindu Nationalism. Hindu Mahasabha was right. Because if Muslim League was given a separate nation, they would make it Muslim Nation. However, in India, Indian National Congress wouldn’t let them make Hindu Nation. And the main reason behind it was Gandhi and Nehru’s support to Indian National Congress, which was clearly threat for Hindus’ future in India. They couldn’t rule in their own country.

So, Keshav Baliram Hegdewar left Hindu Mahasabha, which had peaceful nature towards Hindu Nationlism, and established his own new party. Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in 1925.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)

Veer Savarkar, The Hindu Atheist

As RSS was founded, Hindu Mahasabha lost proper leader to lead and influence the Mahasabha. Vinayak Damodar Savarkar provided his guidance to lead the idea of Hindu Nationalism in the Hindu Mahasabha. He himself was an atheist. But, he believed that being Hindu has nothing to do with believing in Hindu gods. When it comes to political Hindu influence, in spite of being an atheist, he stood for Hindu Nationalism.

Vinayak Damodar Savarkar (VEER SAVARKAR)

For the first time, he introduced the word Hindutva in his explanation why he was Hindu. Again, this is Hindu Land, and it must be influenced by Hindutva. However, RSS and Hindu Mahasabha both acted together, and empowered the idea of Hindu Nationalism. Vivekananda Kendra and other affiliations related to Swami Vivekananda also supported Hindu Mahasabha and RSS. RSS is believed to merely have adopted the ideologies of Swami Vivekananda’s dream of Hindu Nation.

In the meantime, one of the worker of Hindu Mahasabha and RSS, Nathuram Godse introduced a new policy for Hindu Nationalism, which would abolish the caste system in Hindus from constitution. However, he didn’t get much support.

Jinnah wouldn’t retreat. He kept asking for a separate nation, and Gandhi actually would give him one. During 1928-31, Chandrashekhar Azad and Bhagat Singh together fought the battle of freedom against British, in their own way. However, Gandhi didn’t supported them, just because of their way of violence. However, it wasn’t about violence or non-violence. It was about freedom. No fight had ever won without blood. And if you think that only Gandhi’s non-violence brought us freedom, then you’re disrespecting the martyrs who died to free the nation. Perhaps that non-violence was the reason that extremely brave fighters like Azad and Bhagat Singh couldn’t gather support. If they had, violence was greater weapon against British. Fear in enemy’s heart always weakens them. Even Emperor Ashoka had become non-violent after a certain moment, yet his fear in the hearts of Greek and Syrians never let them invade Indian Subcontinent. This was the same. They believed if we want fast freedom, the only way is to produce fear in their hearts. But Gandhi wasn’t a person who would support this basic idea. His non-violence made us to endure more hangings of our great martyrs. And his disagreement for Hindu Nationalism was ever greater threat to the future of India.

Due to the heavy pressure of Gandhi’s non-violent activities, Subhashchandra Bose resigned from the president of Indian National Congress in 1938, and went in exile to make even better force to fight. In 1943, he founded the Azad Hind Force in Singapore, supported by Japan. The world was suffering a World War. And Netaji made his force in the season of World War. RSS openly admired Adolf Hitler is their speeches during World War. They even showed their support.

Freedom in 1947

After the immense tries of martyrs and various freedom movements, British surrendered and signed the declaration of freedom. On Jinnah’s proposal of separate nation, Congress had already agreed. And on 14^th August, 1947, Muslim League was given a separate nation, Pakistan. On 15^th August, 1947, India saw its first dawn of freedom. Yet, Hindu Nationalism was a question. As Gandhi preferred Nehru to make India’s first Prime Minister and Indian National Congress as ruling political party, Hindu Mahasabha and RSS both knew that despite the freedom, they had lost battle of Hindu Nationalism. Indian National Congress had closed fate of Hindus forever.

Partition of India, 1947

Reservation Policy

Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar introduced the ideas of few reservation policies for backward people of India which would be included in constitution of India. This reservation idea was also supported and admired by Congress, while RSS activist Nathuram Godse disagreed with this idea. Hindu Mahasabha and RSS both showed their support to abolish the caste system, which would never need the reservation policy of Congress.

Indian Constitution was highly influenced by Gandhi’s thoughts, and Ambedkar introduced the reservation policy, which clearly had consequences. In spite of protests from RSS and Hindu Mahasabha, they ignored them.

Assassination of Gandhi

Seeing Gandhi as the greatest threat of Hindus and Hindu Nationalism, Nathuram Godse shot him on 30^th January, 1948. He was later hanged in 1949. People believe if that incident had happened earlier, India’s future would’ve been safe. There would be no Pakistan and Bangladesh, yet there would be a Hindu Nation in power, with peaceful future. The riots we had faced, wouldn’t have occurred.

Nathuram Godse

Is this India, we had dreamed for?

Hadn’t Hindus suffered enough that their fate was drowned like this? Aren’t all Muslim Majority countries are Islam Republic? Then why India is not a Hindu Nation? Despite of freedom and democracy, why we still have different law systems for Muslims, called Muslim Personal Law? Why aren’t Hindus and Muslims treated equally according to the law? Why Indian Judiciary System is still biased? Why is there still injustice to Hindus? 

Note: We have officially shifted our blog to a new address http://ownperspective.weebly.com/  . However, the series of HINDUS will be completed here. Besides, the new posts from here will also be published there. But the posts apart from HINDUS will be published only there. 

Being Somebody

Being Somebody

 Me, living my dreams

I woke up late in the morning of 20^th June of 2015, as per the habit of last couple of days. I remembered some thought struck my mind last night when I was listening songs on my phone before going to sleep. For me, it might have been a normal morning if I hadn’t received the news of my graduation the previous day. Though it was meant to be a feeling of happiness, I felt burden over my mind. Burden of employment.

In spite of waking up late, I sat in my bed with tidy hair, thinking about my next steps towards future. Well, nothing came up. So, I kept thinking even during brushing my teeth and later in shower. To be honest, I was very well-aware of the fact of my career choice for last few years. However, being a writer isn’t believed a wise choice as a start-up career. I desperately needed an option, because I knew how terrible Engineer I was. In spite of receiving distinction in Engineering, I was very well-aware of my capabilities.

The second option which struck me in last couple of days, was the one which I had been practising for last many years. Graphics Designing. However, seeking jobs in designing firm after completing engineering is rare case. And for me, my only two optioned seemed impossible to start with. Therefore, I chose better one and put the first option on hold. Because I could never put the dream of writing my own novel aside. After all, I had invested last seven years in reading the books carefully and increasing my knowledge in my favourite field. History was my thing, and I already had spent nine years to study Indian Mythology, History, Culture and philosophy in deep. I could never give up that dream.

Idea of beginning career in designing was good as a fresher, yet I had no certificate saying that  I was a designer. However, I had heard that companies only want your creativity rather than your certificate. So, I took a month to enhance my skills before applying in any urgent interview. Meanwhile, the hunger of history and mythology overtook my real motive, and I made myself busy in digital painting of gods. Interacting with few well-known digital artist of mythological works made it worse. I found myself attached in designing firm. However, at nights, I always wrote. And initiative of my own historical-fiction novel led me to 150 pages of manuscript with only 25% of the story told in it. Well, I stopped there, and reworked on my language and style of expressing narrative paragraphs.

Four months passed by, and I got no reply from every companies I had applied for. I doubted if anyone had even cared to see my resume and digital portfolio. The more embarrassing moments were seeing my parents’ faces with a question, yet I couldn’t answer them. I avoided my expenses as far as I could, so that I didn’t have to ask for money at home. I started spending more time in my bedroom, working on new artworks and writing. Well, opposite to normal people, I’m not an out-spoken person with many friends out there. Although, I did create virtual friend for me. A mere reflection of my own character. But everything as I knew was leading me in depression, which I heavily wanted to avoid. Continuous thinking of future and family wouldn’t allow me to concentrate on my writings. I kept doing artworks, because I could do it even without concentration. But I needed free thinking to build plot of historical-fiction. After gathering all the facts at one place, I once began a general plot. But it was difficult to explain your characters’ feelings when you’re low. That was the thing, happening with me. I was at my lowest point, where if I start working at any kind of job just for money, that would neither respect my skills nor my time. Some of my friends used to say that I have extraordinary skills of digital art. However, I didn’t believe because no professional had hired me yet. But one ray of hope came when my first artwork was sold out for very short amount of money. I forced my mind to believe that I might have some uniqueness in my arts. In the country, where nobody had any interest in culture and history, I was giving the famous mythological characters their new looks according to my imagination and possible digitization.

One day while taking a usual evening walk with my father, he looked at me and asked.

“I read about the jobs of Lecturer in Government College the other day. They say you must apply in GPSC for that. Do you want to?” he asked. I knew he cared about me. But I knew that even if I got the job of Lecturer, that wouldn’t help me to achieve my dream. These things would earn me money, yet that would neither give me time nor focus for what I really wanted to do.

“You know that even if I apply for it, I’m not going to be selected. Reservations are tough on us. GPSC requires more results from us than other castes. Besides, I want to build professional career in designing firm, and experience of academic career isn’t considered in these technical firms,” I replied with an excuse. Clearly, it made him disappointed.

I didn’t want to upset him. So I thought of giving it a try. Perhaps, it could bring new experience of life. So, I applied the next day. However, the exam was three months later, and I’m still waiting for it.

After applying in it, I got a call from my friend the other day. He said that he had started his own business of developing and designing in the basement of his own house. And he wanted me to include for designing. I agreed at once. However, I knew that fact that during start-ups, we can’t see money very well. My friend invested money in building that company and he was genuinely interested in it. I made my mind of helping him with my skills. When a 21 year old boy tells his parents that we would work as co-owner of the company which has just started, he won’t be given much response. Although, I explained out activities to them, and they allowed me to work there until I don’t have a proper job.

We started it, and we’re still working well in it. Well, money isn’t good yet, but we hope that we could figure it out in a year. My friend had family support for this one. No pressure of jobs, or writing or anything. I never gave up on interviews. I went frequently. Yet, they wanted more work on less salary, even in Naïve Company like us. One company offered me job of Web + Graphics Designer and I have to convert those psd files into css stylesheets along with html forms, since my resume told them that I was a PHP developer too. Well, that was double work and I must be paid as well. They informed me that my salary would be as they had published in advertisement. I was supposed to work as a designer and developer, on the salary of only designer. In 9 to 7 jobs with negligible salary, why would I pick that job? I wasn’t that kind of person who would sell his skills every day for few money. Besides, my designs would be titled on their company’s name. Why would I do that? I was working as freelancer where I could sell my art on my own name. And there is a big difference between selling your arts and selling your skills.

Honestly, I’ve developed considerable skills in both designing and writing. And I can’t sell this skills to those people who even don’t know how to respect a person’s hard work and knowledge. I have considerable knowledge in mythology and history of Indian cultural philosophy and religious studies, yet who cares?

I had to give up many ambitions throughout my teenage, I couldn’t give up this now. After scoring more than 75 in three school exams of 12^th HSC, somehow my results showed only 62 in Boards. In those two years of Higher Secondary, I had achieved supremacy in Chemistry. I could solve tough chemical equations in minutes, and could memorize the methods of naming and reactions in both organic and non-organics. Even after scoring more than 75 in chemistry in all of three exams, board results showed me less than 40 in favourite subject. Well, it didn’t happen with only my result. That year, my town saw its lowest result. Only 34% science students passed the exam. I had that dream of taking an admission in Chemical Engineering since my science teacher in 9^th told me that my chemistry was good and I should focus to become a chemical engineer. After scoring 80% in SSC, I applied in Diploma where I got admission in Petrochemical Engineering in the glorious university of our district. (M.S.) Yet, my instincts said me to study chemistry deeply in Higher Secondary. Well, I followed myself.

And everything I had dreamed, shattered in one moment on the day of 12^th May, 2011, when I saw my result on GHSEB Board’s website. Honestly, I never read anything twice. Whatever I have achieved in my life, I did due to my extremely deep memory. I’m not boasting about myself, but it’s true that I’ve all stories of Scriptures, dates of kingdoms and kings, dates of famous wars, politics, international affairs, vast history of worldwide culture, technology, chemistry, science, and Computer Engineering, stored in my mind by only reading them once. And I know that all my abilities wouldn’t be noticed in future.

That moment when I first saw my HSC results, I did cry literally. I couldn’t hold it. The merit was a question mark on my future. However, fortunately, I got admission in Computer Engineering on the basis of my merit, yet I haven’t imagined that I’d be doing this. I knew that my self-confidence was already broken, and it would take considerable amount of motivation. Well, I could find no source of motivation, since that had changed me totally. An out-spoken, fun-loving person had become silent and steady. It wasn’t a depression, though. I knew that wouldn’t help me at all. So, I ignored my fate and continued walking further. I don’t know how many people did notice me, I don’t know how many people did presume my abilities, but I do know that all the abilities which I had acquired by enormous reading and various ignored stuff, was going in vain.

Well, few writers who inspired me for writing were: Dan Brown, J K Rowling, Stephnie Meyer, Paulo Coehlo, Salman Rushdie, Ian Fleming, Conan Doyle, and many others whom I used to read. I never underestimated Indian Writers. I always felt that India is lacking in literature since there are not many writers who could reintroduce history and culture to our youth. Young writers were busy in making romedy and Semi-porn love stories. Yet, I admire the Indian writers like Ashwin Sanghi, Amish Tripathi, Christopher C Doyle, etc for reintroducing Indian Culture by their very own ways. Using the medium of thriller, they made our history much more interesting to read. And I accepted their influence and motivation in my life. Like once Amish Tripathi said that even he couldn’t manage to work in the bank and write his first book of Shiva Trilogy concurrently. Well, if these brilliant people who have their total education in English Medium and have tremendous skills in this language felt it hard, then I was just a common boy who did his schooling in Gujarati Medium. Yet, my closeness with English Literature had filled my mental vocabulary with extremely good words which I could use in literary works.

It’s been more than six months, since I graduated and I still don’t have any job. I work at company which I and my friend direct together. Perhaps, my parents still want me to take a stable job, because their aim as guardians is seeing me happy and prosperous. However, I believe my happiness would be to work what I truly desire and prosperity would be having satisfaction with my works. I’m still figuring out to make everyone happy. 

HINDUS (Part 7)

HINDUS

(Part 7)

The Legend of Peshwa Bajirao Ballal Bhat

Becoming the Peshwa:

After the sudden death of the first Peshwa, Balaji Vishwanath in 1720, his 20 years old son Bajirao was appointed the next Peshwa of Marathas in the same year. However, Maratha Leaders like Shripat Rao Pratinidhi, Naro Rao Mantri opposed this decision. However, Chhatrapati Shahuji cleared their doubts and immediately made Bajirao the Commander-in-chief of entire Maratha Army. 

Mughal Emperor Muhammad Shah started rebelling against the Maratha Empire, and Nizam of Deccan also misunderstood this new Peshwa just because of his very young age. However, Bajirao was not a man to be underestimated. 

Campaign against Nizam:

In 1721, 21 year old Bajirao met Nizam-ul-mulk Asaf Jah of Deccan to settle agreement of various territories and Maratha rights to collect taxes. However, Nizam refused to the agreement and said that he denied Maratha rights. 

After this incident, Mughal Emperor saw threat from Nizam by his growing power and Nizam was made Wazir by Mughal Emperor Muhammad Shah and sent to Awadh (Ayodhya). Apparently, Nizam rebelled against this order and resigned from the post of Mughal Wazir. He assembled his army and marched to Delhi. The emperor sent an army to Agra, but was defeated in the battle of Sakhar-kheda. Then Mughal Emperor was forced to recognise him as the viceroy of Deccan. Marathas, led by Peshwa Bajirao, helped him to win this battle. And for this Bajirao was honoured with jewels and elephants. 

Nizam wanted to please both Mughal Emperor Muhammad Shah and Chhatrapati Shahuji. However, he wanted to make sovereign kingdom of his own and made Marathas rival of Deccan. He started rebelling against Maratha forces. In response, Marathas marched towards Deccan with forces under the leadership of Fatehrao Bhosle in 1725. However, Marathas were forced to retreat. 

They again marched towards Deccan after the monsoon season, but again they had to retreat. Meanwhile, Sambhaji II had become rival and claimed for the throne of Chhatrapati. This had become a dispute in Marathas and they were busy in solving that. Nizam saw it as a golden opportunity and sent a messenger at Satara court. He refused to give any taxes to Marathas as he didn’t understand whom to give. To Sambhaji II who were claiming of the throne of Chhatrapati or to the Shahuji who already was the Chhatrapati. Nizam offered to act as an arbitrator in this dispute. His spokesperson in the Satara court was Parshuram Pant Pratinidhi who was enemy of Peshwa Bajirao. Besides, Sambhaji II had a supporter in the court, named Chandrasen Yadav, who had fought against Bajirao’s father ten years ago. 

Now Bajirao was very well-aware if Sambhaji II became the Chhatrapati, he would surely make someone else new Peshwa. Might be Shripat Rao Pratinidhi who had opposed his coronation as Peshwa. So, Bajirao convinced Shahuji to refuse Nizam’s offer. 

In response, Bajirao marched towards Deccan in Auguast 1727 and persuaded major territories of Nizam. However, while Bajirao was away, Nizam invaded Pune and crowned Sambhaji II as the new Chhatrapati. He left Fazal Beg Pune with an army in case Maratha tried to reclaim.

While returning to Deccan, Nizam faced Bajirao’s army. Bajirao had been very furious since he had heard the news of making Sambhaji II a new Chhatrapati by invading Pune. Bajirao defeated Nizam in the battle of Palkhed and forced him to sign agreement of peace. Then, Bajirao invaded Pune and secured Shahuji’s post as the Chhatrapati. 

Bajirao had made Shahuji Chhatrapati again, and this act must be honoured. So, Chhatrapati Shahuji gifted Bajirao the city of Pune and made a beautiful palace for him, named Shaniwarwada. Bajirao along with his wife Kashibai, his son Balaji Bajirao (Nana Saheb) and his mother Radhabai moved to Pune’s new palace. Bajirao declared Pune as the capital of Marathas so that Chhatrapati Shahuji could live in Satara peacefully. 

Ruins of Shaniwar Wada, Pune 

Malwa Campaign

After defeating Nizam, Bajirao had turned his gaze towards the southern parts of Malwa to collect taxes. Seeing growing power of Marathas, Mughal Emperor Muhammad Shah appointed Girdhar Bahadur as the governor of Malwa in 1728. 

In response, Bajirao sent an army in the leadership of his younger brother Chimanji Appa, to march towards Malwa. Mughal forces was once again defeated by Marathas in the battle and Marathas reclaimed the Malwa. Bajirao himself marched towards the boundaries of Rajasthan. After defeating Nizam, his only aim was to wave saffron flag in northern parts of Hindustan which were still under Mughal Rule or rebelling against Maratha Rule. 

In early 1729, he had already reached at the Rajasthan.

Bundelkhand Campaign

As soon as Bajirao reached the boundaries of Rajasthan, he received message from King of Bundelkhand, Chhatrasal, who was imprisoned in his own palace by Mughal Forces, led by Muhammad Khan Bangash. King Chhatrasal had rebelled against Mughal Rule to establish independent kingdom of his own. 

Bajirao had already received messages from Bundelkhand, but he was too busy at Malwa. Finall, Bajirao agreed to help Bundelkhand, and marched towards it. He strategically tricked the Mughal Army at Bundelkhand and attacked at once. Meanwhile, King Chhatrasal also managed to escape from captivity and attacked Mughal Army from the other side with his Rajput Army. Mughal Forces were outnumbered, yet surrounded by Marathas and Rajputs. Seeing the big loss in the battle, Muhammad Khan Bangash escaped and went to Delhi. Bajirao had won the battle and made Bundelkhand an independent kingdom. A Hindu State helped another Hindu state. 

King Chhatrasal offered few jagirs in gift to Bajirao along with his daughter Mastani. At Pune, there was a bit shock due to this relationship with Princess Mastani. The reason was only one. Mastani was daughter of King Chhatrasal from his Muslim Wife. On the other hand, Peshwai had made a rule not to mix blood. Bajirao had already accepted Mastani as his wife. Legend says that he was fascinated by her sword-fighting. In Bajirao’s sight, she was a great warrior. 

Peshwa Bajirao and Mastani

At Pune, neither Radhabai nor Chimanji Appa accepted Mastani as the wife of Bajirao. Bajirao had been caught in family dispute there. But he was not that fool who could forget the ambition of Marathas to establish Hindu Rule in all over Hindustan. He was always alert with enemy movements. 

Battle of Dabhoi

Salbuland Khan, the Mughal Governor of Gujarat territories, had opposed the rights of Maratha to collect Chauth (Tax to Maratha Capital Treasury). Soon, he was replaced by Mughal Emperor with a new governor named Abhay Singh. He saw that Marathas had full rights to collect Chauth from Gujarat, and he allowed them to. This was a huge success for Peshwa Bajirao.

However, Trimbak Rao Dabhade refused to pay Chauth to Bajirao. He was commander of Chhatrapati Shahu, but he always envied success of Bajirao. Dabhade Clan had raided Gujarat several times during old Mughal Rule, so he thought there was no way to pay Chauth to present Peshwa. However, Bajirao thought otherwise. And Dabhade started rebelling against Peshwa. 

Maratha Nobles of Gujarat, Gaekwad and Kadam Bande also didn’t want to pay any tax to Peshwa. They always wanted independent rule. However, Marathas should remain together. And Gaekwads and Kadams also supported Trimbak Rao Dabhade. 

Meanwhile, after the defeat of Girdhar Bahadur, Mughal Emperor made Jaysinh II the governor. Jaysinh II agreed for with Marathas. However, Mughal Emperor refused and made Muhammad Khan Bangash new governor. Bangash made good alliance with Nizam, while Nizam shook hand with Sambhaji II. Sambhaji II shook hand with Trimbak Rao Dabhade. Now, the situation was like this: Trimbak Rao Dabhade, Gaekwad, Bangash, Sambhaji II v/s Peshwa Bajirao. However, the military forces were only with Gaekwad, Dabhade and Kadams. 

On 1st April, 1731, Bajirao defeated the combined forces of Gaekwad, Dabhade and Kadams in the Battle of Dabhoi. By killing Trimbak Rao Dabhade, Bajirao won the battle. Bajirao ordered to investigate this rebel, and he came to know that Sambhaji II and Nizam interfered in this.

On 13th April, 1731, Bajirao forced Sambhaji II to sign treaty of Warna to the name of Chhatrapati Shahuji. Then, Bajirao went to Nizam and warned him if he interfered one more time and entire Deccan Army would be the destroyed by Bajirao. Nizam promised not to interfere anymore. 

This was the great victory which almost scared Mughal Emperor. Peshwa Bajirao had completed 11 years as a Peshwa, and he merged almost 50% of the Hindustan in Maratha Empire. Chhatrapati Shahuji who had preserved his grandfather’s dream of Hindu Rule, was very happy to see that only one man, one Peshwa had established Hindu Rule in half of Hindustan. A new hope for Hindus had already been seen. Saffron Flag with Hindu Rule. However, this didn’t affected the happiness of Muslims too. Hindu Rule, the Maratha Rule was kind to every religions. They didn’t burden taxes on Hindu or Muslim Pilgrimage. They only taxed the territories, which would directly go to treasury of Chhatrapati. Well, that’s how kingdom works. And this wasn’t just a kingdom, this was an empire. A Hindu Empire. 

March towards Delhi

After defeating Siddis in the previous battle in 1736, Bajirao was all set to invade Delhi and pluck off the Mughal Rule from its roots. He had one saying: If you attack the root, the entire tree falls off. After the death of Trimbak Rao Dabhade, Bangash had no alliance remained with Marathas. He was in big trouble now. Therefore, Mughal Emperor reappointed Jaysinh II as the governor in place of Bangash. However, Maratha chief Holkar defeated Jaysinh II. After two more battle, Mughals agreed on Marathas’ right to collect Chauth from Malwa. And they payed 22 lakh Chauth to Peshwa Bajirao. And Peshwa Bajirao became deputy governor of Malwa.

Clever Bajirao had already understood that Mughal Emperor was weak now, and it might be the perfect time to attack Delhi and pluck off Mughal Rule. In November, 1736, Peshwa Bajirao marched towards Delhi. Hearing Peshwa’s march towards Delhi, Mughal Emperor sent Sadat Khan of Agra to stop and kill Bajirao. After crossing Yamuna, Sadat Khan met with the army of Malhar Rao and Pilaji Rao. However, Bajirao wasn’t the commander, he was still marching towards Delhi. Sadat Khan defeated Malhar Rao Holkar and retired to Mathura, thinking that Maratha Army had retreated. However, Bajirao was not a person who would retreat. He was still marching towards Delhi. 

Peshwa Bajirao defeated Mir Hasan Khan in the battle of Delhi, but then he heard that a larger Mughal Army had approached towards Delhi to fight Maratha, he had to return. Mughal Emperor Muhammad Khan then went to seek help from Nizam, who had promised that he wouldn’t interfere. Nizam set out from Deccan, breaking the promise made to Peshwa. He met with Bajirao’s army at Bhopal, on the mid-way. Angry Bajirao couldn’t endure this betrayal and declared a battle against Nizam at once. Once again, Bajirao defeated Nizam and forced him to sign peace agreement. Since Nizam had broken promise of not interfering, Peshwa Bajirao punished him to pay 50 lakh chauth to Chhatrapati Shahuji. And Nizam once again swore. 

Against Portuguese

Soon after the defeat of Nizam, Portuguese tried to rebel against Peshwa. However, Peshwa responded furiously this time and defeated the advanced forces of Portuguese. Once again, they were also forced to sign peace agreement by Peshwa. 

Death

Peshwa was still in his youth. 39 year old Peshwa was again marching towards the Delhi, this time to end Mughal Empire forever. However, after crossing the Narmada River, he felt ill due to sudden fever, possibly a heatstroke. They stopped near Indore, where Peshwa was being treated to be recovered. As soon as the news went to Pune, Peshwain Kashibai rushed at Indore. But it was too late. On 28th April, 1739, Peshwa Bajirao died of illness. Once again, for Hindus, it was not an ordinary death. Whenever something big was going to happens, illness had killed that man. First, Shivaji fell ill at the age of 52, then Sambhaji was killed, then Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath died of illness at the age of 54 and now Shrimant Peshwa Bajirao Ballal Bhat died at the mere age of 39, again due to illness. No one could believe why the destiny of Hindus was so awful that they had to see these sorrows unexpectedly. Everyone knew that Peshwa Bajirao was going to attack Delhi with the forces of 100000 Maratha Soldiers. And Peshwa hadn’t lost a single war. He fought 40 battle in a row and won all of them. Mughal Emperor was extremely weak in power and couldn’t have controlled the attack of Peshwa. Yet, Peshwa died of illness and Hindus had to bear few more years under Mughal Rule. 

Statue of Peshwa Bajirao Ballal Bhat

However, there was one relief. Peshwa Bajirao had won 60% of Hindustan by then. And he had established Maratha Rule, the Hindu Rule, in most parts of the Hindustan. Historians believe that he might have died in the pressure of family dispute going on in his family. His mother and his eldest son Nana Saheb hadn’t accepted Mastani. He was also anxious about the future of his wife Mastani and their son Samsher Bahadur. However, he had already given some jagirs to Samsher Bahadur. It is said that Mastani committed suicide just after receiving the news of Peshwa’s death. And Nana Saheb took over the seat of Peshwa and started ruling Maratha Empire with the name of Balaji Bajirao. Thus, Marathas gained their third Peshwa. Peshwa Balaji Bajirao.

However, Marathas and Hindus would always owe to the greatest and second Peshwa of Maratha Empire, Peshwa Bajirao Ballal Bhat, who waved the saffron flag on 60% of Hindustan by re-establishing the Hindu Rule. 

To be continued...

Note: This legend of Peshwa Bajirao is story of his lifetime achievements as a warrior. I've discussed only those things which matters to my blog. If you desire to know about his personal life, you could know by searching on Internet or you could watch the recently released movie "Bajirao Mastani" for his love story. However, they have manipulated few facts to suit the drama. But Peshwa Bajirao was a great man and warrior. And people should also remember him for his bravery and strategic style of fighting battles. 

HINDUS (Part 6)

HINDUS

(Part 6)

The Legend of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (Part 2)

Invitation to Agra and arrest at Mughal Court

After the treaty of Purandar, Shivaji had to wait till his next big step. Although he wasn’t planning anything. His nine year old son Sambhaji was also eager with his father’s activities and he had shown his full support to his father at that young age.

However, after some time in 1666, Shivaji got an invitation from Agra, from Mughal Court. Emperor Aurangzeb invited him to join them in Mughal Court. Aurangzeb had plans to send Shivaji at Kandahar (now in Afghanistan) as a governor. However he knew that Shivaji was not the man who could just leave his motherland for him.

Shivaji went Agra along with his nine years old son, Sambhaji. When Shivaji arrived at the rich Mughal Court, he was given seat behind the military commanders. Well, that was not the way Shivaji should be treated. He had agreed on the treaty, he was not less than a viceroy. To give seat behind military commanders was an insult. Therefore Shivaji lost his temper and stormed out from the court before every courtier. He didn’t care what Aurangzeb would feel. Apparently, Aurangzeb ordered to imprison them in charges of disgracing the Mughal Emperor. Shivaji and Sambhaji were apparently alone and couldn’t fight back. The Mughal Soldiers imprisoned them in Agra.

Shivaji at Aurangzeb' court

After few weeks, Shivaji feigned of illness in the prison. So he requested to allow him to send some gifts and sweets to his military in Deccan. He was allowed to do so. Sambhaji was just a child, so he had no restriction to wander around. On the day of 17th August, 1666, Shivaji wore up clothes of servant and carried a basket of sweets on his shoulder, in which Sambhaji sat quietly. Shivaji broke out very cleverly and disappeared for a while. He fled away from boundaries of Agra disguised as Saints.

The Dawn of Maratha vs Mughal on extreme base

The breakout of Shivaji made Aurangzeb angry, while Shivaji went into Deccan and assembled his army for heavy attacks. This time he won’t make it light. This time Mughals had to pay what they had done to Hindus. In 1670, Tanaji Malusare launched at attack on Sinhgadh Fort and won it. Meanwhile, Shivaji launched an attack on Surat one more time and sacked it once again. Every time something happened to Surat, both Mughals and British lost their tempers. However, Shivaji was well-aware with the movements of British. Every conquest of Shivaji had been enraging Mughals more and more.

Contracts with British

For heavy attacks on Mughals, Marathas needed heavy war materials. And Shivaji exactly knew who could help them. He sent his men to Bombay to convince the British to sell them war materials. Apparently, British refused as Shivaji had sacked Surat one more time.

This made Shivaji angrier than ever, and he sent his forces to Bombay to harass British and fetch materials. And they got materials. However, in 1671, they again required more materials. This time, Shivaji sent his ambassador to talk peacefully and make dealings with British. Meanwhile, British knew if they disagreed, they would lose the chances of getting Rajapur Factories as Maratha wouldn’t give away anything. They had no choice but to negotiate. However, the negotiation failed on the topic of Rajpur Factories, as Shivaji refused to give away Rajapur Factories.

Battle of Nessari

In 1674, Shivaji sent Prataprao Gujar, the commander-in-chief of Maratha Forces to fight against Bahlol Khan, the adilshahi governor. Prataprao defeated them after cutting off the water supply. However, he released Bahlol Khan despite the orders of Shivaji not to do so.

Apparently, Shivaji was unpleased with this activity of Prataprao, as he knew that Bahlol Khan shouldn’t be trusted in any way. Therefore, Shivaji wrote a letter to Prataprao, while Bahlol Kahn assembled army of 150000 to avenge his defeat. Prataprao and other Maratha leaders led the suicide mission to defeat the Adilshahi Army and capture Bahlol Khan. However, Prataprao was killed during the battle, but after that Maratha avenged his death and seized Bahlol Khan’s jagir. Death of Prataprao was a very sad news for Shivaji. He grieved on his death, and then he arranged the wedding of his second son Rajaram with daughter of Prataprao.

Hambirrao Mohite was appointed a new commander-in-chief of Maratha Army. And by then, the Raigad Fort was ready. A new capital of Marathas.

CORONATION

Shivaji had conquered many lands and had acquired enough Jagirs. However, technically, he was still a son of Mughal Jagirdar or Adilshahi Governor, and he had no right to rule all these lands. And the solution to that problem was any kingly title that would make Shivaji a king and eventually, could give him right to rule everything he had owned.

Maratha Leader had their right to appoint their king, who could rule the land and be a monarch to defend them in wars. Besides, the Hindu Monarch was the need in Muslim ruled nation, where Hindus had all the rights to rule their own land. Shivaji was the only and best choice for this title of Monarch.

On 6th June, 1674, Marathas arranged a grand coronation ceremony for their beloved warrior Shivaji at Raigad Fort. Pandit Gaga Bhatt officiated, holding the gold vessel filled with water of seven sacred rivers (Ganga, Yamuna, Indus, Godavari, Kaveri, Narmada and Krishna) over Shivaji’s head and chanted the coronation mantras. Then Shivaji bowed to his mother Jijabai’s feet to receive her blessings. Approximately, fifty thousand people had gathered to enjoy the coronation ceremony. Then Shivaji was bestowed with sacred thread of Janva and then he bathed with Abhisheka. He was entitled as Shakakarta (Founder of an era), Kshatriya Kulavantas (Head of Kshatriyas) and Chhatrapati (Paramount sovereign). He also accepted the title of “Haindava Dharmoddharka”.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's coronation

Thus the brave Maratha Warrior became the monarch of the Marathas, head of the Kshatriyas. He established the strong Hindu Empire, the Maratha Empire. The monarch with the dream of Hindu Nation was now known as CHHATRAPATI SHIVAJI MAHARAJ.

However, after 12 days of his coronation, his mother Jijabai died on 18th June, 1674. Considering this as a bad omen, the second coronation was held on 24th September, 1674. This time it was done according to Bengali School of Tantricism.

Shivaji was a Hindu Monarch, but respected all religions. No Maratha King ever harassed Muslims in their land. This land has always belonged to Hindus, and only they have right to rule it. For more than 2000 years, Hindus have made Indian Subcontinent wide and cherished it. And then some refugees came and destroyed the glory of golden nation. India might be known due to Taj Mahal these days, but we had glorious temples before they destroyed them. Rise of Maratha Empire was the first step towards the ambitious Hindu Nation. This land of Hindustan is called so because this land belongs to Hindus.

Expansion of Maratha Empire

After establishment of Maratha Empire, the next step was expanding the boundaries. Shivaji expanded Maratha Empire in all the directions towards Khandesh, Deccan, Vellore, Belgaum by defeating the Muslim Rulers and establishing the new Hindu Rule. These conquests actually showed Hindus a new ray of happiness in their land. The Saffron Flag was again waving in the sky. This saffron flag was sign of happiness for all religion, where everyone would get equal respect and equal justice. Apparently, Hindus were happier as they could see 500 years of slavery ending now.

Shivaji had become the national hero. Hero to Hindus. Hero to Kshatriyas. And eventually, the pillars of Mughal Sultanate had started shaking. Meanwhile, in 1675, Aurangzeb did a dreadful act by beheading the Sikh Leader, Guru Teg Bahadur by inviting him in Delhi. He was the leader of Sikhs who also protested against the Mughal Sultanate. However, the west and south had only one name… SHIVAJI

Set of the brightest sun

In March 1680, 52 years old Shivaji fell ill. The high fever won’t go away. After few weeks, the situation even became worse. Critical, you might say. In entire Maratha Empire, that was an atmosphere of sorrow and worship together. People were worshipping for Shivaji’s good health and recovery. Hindus had seen such a great after so many decades. They didn’t want to lose him. All the lands under saffron flag were worshipping for this one man who had shown them a pursuit of happiness.

However, the more complicated question was the throne of Maratha King. The throne of Chhatrapati. Shivaji was people’s king and if he died, who would succeed him? The only option was Sambhaji, Shivaji’s eldest son. However, his misbehaviour was a big question. But Marathas believed that he would do great if responsibilities would be given to him.

In the first week of April, 1680, on the eve of Hanuman Jayanti, Shivaji took his last breath. He died quite young. Mughals thought that his death would be the open invitation to invade the Maratha Empire, but they didn’t know that Sambhaji had Shivaji’s blood.

However, the second wife of Shivaji, Sooryabai made plans with ministers to make her son, Rajaram the Chhatrapati. And he was actually made the Chhatrapati, who was too young to rule this strong Maratha Empire. This was Sambhaji’s right. So, Sambhaji came in two months and killed the commander of Raigad Fort and possessed the throne of Chhatrapati. The destiny had chosen the appropriate man to lead this empire. And Sambhaji became Chhatrapati and led the Maratha Empire.

Sambhaji’s reign:

Quickly after Shivaji’s death, Aurangzeb declared war against Marathas which lasted for 27 years. British also participated. Sambhaji’s reign remained only for 8 years. However, during his reign, he and Rajaram invaded the western kingdoms of Muslim Rulers and eastern kingdoms too. The Maratha-Mughal war was the busiest in these years. In 1689, he and his son Shahu was captured by Aurangzeb. Mughal Documents says that Aurangzeb ordered Sambhaji to embrace Islam and he would release him. But Sambhaji was the son of Shivaji, his own blood. He refused to convert in Islam. He had accepted the dream of his father. He also wanted to see this land as Hindu Nation. Sambhaji was very quick-answering person. He said, “I wouldn’t convert into Islam even if the emperor tried to bribe me with his daughter.” A sign of true Maratha Blood. Nothing would be more precious than to see the saffron flag all over the Hindustan.

Chhatrapati Sambhaji Raje

Aurangzeb ordered to execute him. And as per his orders, Sambhaji was cut into pieces and thrown into the river. His son Shahu was released after Aurangzeb’s death, while Rajaram became the 3rd Chhatrapati. He died of illness in 1700 and his son, Shivaji II became the 4th Chhatrapati of Maratha Empire. Aurangzeb’s death had weakened the Mughal Sultanate. However, Mughal Empire still had wealth and soldiers which could be enough to fight against Maratha Empire.

Peshwas were the Prime Ministers of Maratha Empire. In 1707, Shahuji became the 5th Chhatrapati after the sudden death of his nephew Shivaji II.

Meanwhile, Maratha Empire had expanded its boundaries even further. And Marathas started their rule by divisions. Holkars ruled Indore. Scindias ruled Gwalior and Ujjain. Gaekwads ruled the western state called Baroda. And finally the capital of Maratha Empire, Pune, was ruled by Peshwas.

Chhatrapati Shahuji moved his residence to Satara, while he appointed a brave Maratha Warrior Balaji Vishwanath as the Peshwa of Pune. Balaji Vishwanath had shown his capabilities during Maratha-Mughal war. And Shahuji believed that no one could lead Marathas better than Balaji Vishwanath Bhat Ballal. Though he was a Hindu Brahmin, he was a great warrior like Kshatriyas. And he would lead the Kshatriyas.

PESHWAS

In 1713, Balaji Vishwanath Bhat was made the first Peshwa of Maratha Empire, who led the Maratha Forces during the Maratha-Mughal Civil War. In 1707, when the war ended after 27 years with Maratha’s triumph, Balaji Vishwanath was the only choice for the Peshwa.

Maratha-Mughal Civil War and British Participation

However, in 1720, when he returned from Delhi to Satara after triumph, his health failed him. He fell ill despite of age 58. Chhatrapati Shahuji was well-aware that it was Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath who had the vast Maratha Army under control. He must recover, or this army would perish. Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath finally died on 12th April, 1720, and the chair of Peshwa became empty. His death was unpredictable that no one had ever wondered about his successor.

Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath Bhat

After Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath Bhat’s death, there was chaos to make a new Peshwa. Many Maratha Leaders suggested their own names for Peshwa at the Satara Court. Mughal Sultanate had been defeated, but the Muslim Kingdoms had started rebelling. The death of Balaji Vishwanath was relief for Islamic Kingdoms. Mughals, Adilshahs, Nizams everyone were all set to rebel against Marathas. But Maratha destiny had an answer ready for them. The Eldest son of Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath. However he was too young to rule. No one could believe that only 20 year old warrior could become Peshwa and lead the army.

After examining the capabilities of that 20 year old son of Balaji Vishwanath, Chhatrapati Shahuji saw the extreme wittiness and bravery in his eyes. His fearlessness, courage and wisdom was answer to all the questions. So, he made him Peshwa at once.

Shrimant Peshwa Bajirao Ballal Bhatt

After Shivaji’s bravery and wisdom, he was the only man who led Marathas to the most extreme triumphs. Peshwa Bajirao Ballal Bhatt. Those Mughals, Nizams, Adilshahs didn’t know that they were going to face one of the bravest and wittiest warriors of the history. 20 year old Peshwa Bajirao quickly accepted the leadership of extremely strong Maratha Army and started his invasion in the Hindustan. From Satara to Delhi, from Ujjain to Baroda, and even towards the Deccan, he waved saffron flag over the 60% Hindustan. Hindustan was becoming the HINDU NATION day by day. The Hindu rule was again in power, this time under the leadership of Peshwa Bajirao Ballal Bhatt.

To be continued...