Forts: The Core of the State
Forts (Killa) were the backbone of Maratha power.
- Ramachandrapant Amatya wrote: “This kingdom was created by the late great master from forts alone.”
- Strategy: Forts provided shelter during invasions, storage for supplies, and control over trade routes.
- Famous Forts: Raigad (Capital), Pratapgad, Sindhudurg (Sea Fort), Gingee.
Army Structure
The army consisted of Infantry and Cavalry.
- Bargirs: Soldiers whose horses and weapons were provided by the State.
- Shiledars: Freelance soldiers who brought their own horses and equipment.
Guerrilla Warfare (Ganimi Kava)
- Concept: Using small, mobile units to ambush large, slow-moving armies.
- Tactics: Surprise attacks, cutting off supply lines, and retreating into difficult terrain (hills/forests) where enemy cavalry could not follow.
Maritime Supremacy (The Navy)
Shivaji realized that “He who has the Navy, owns the Sea.” He was one of the few Indian rulers to build a dedicated navy to counter the Portuguese, British, and Siddis.
- Key Admiral: Kanhoji Angre (18th Century).
- Labeled a “pirate” by frustrated Europeans.
- He effectively controlled the Konkan coast, forcing Europeans to buy permits (Cartaz) to trade, reversing the practice where Europeans forced Indians to buy passes.
- Ships: Built small, maneuverable ships (Gurabs, Gallivats) suited for the shallow creeks of the Konkan coast, which could outmaneuver heavy European vessels.