Panipat

In 1758, the Maratha Empire reached the height of its power, controlling nearly all of India except for the territory held by the Nizam of Hyderabad. This period marked significant territorial expansion and military achievements for the Maratha forces, solidifying their dominance in the region.

The Maratha forces, led by Sadashiv Rao Bhau, laid siege to the Nizam's fort at Udgiri. Ibrahim Khan Gardi, the courageous defender, prepared for a fierce battle, showcasing the high stakes involved in this conflict between the Marathas and the Nizam.

Using clever tactics and bravery, Sadashiv successfully captured the fort from Ibrahim Khan Gardi. Instead of executing him, Sadashiv welcomed Ibrahim into the Maratha ranks as a commander, showcasing his strategic acumen and willingness to build alliances.

After the victory at Udgiri, Sadashiv returned to Pune, receiving accolades from the Maratha nobility. However, he faced personal struggles regarding his relationship with Parvati Bai, a situation that complicated his emotions amidst the political climate.

Gopika Bai, the wife of the Peshwa, expressed her dissatisfaction with Sadashiv's decision to appoint Ibrahim, a Muslim commander, without proper consent. Her concerns indicated potential divides within the Maratha leadership, threatening Sadashiv's position.

Yielding to peer pressure, Sadashiv ultimately married Parvati Bai, despite his initial hesitations. This decision would later have consequences for his military command and influence within the political dynamics of the Peshwa's court.

Influenced by Gopika Bai, the Peshwa stripped Sadashiv of his military command, relegating him to a role in financial management. This shift not only impacted Sadashiv's authority but also exposed him to new challenges in maintaining order within the empire.

While managing finances, Sadashiv discovered that Najib-Ud-Daula was the main tax evader, undermining the Maratha treasury. He then issued an edict under Mughal Emperor Alamgir that compelled regional kings to remit a substantial portion of their earnings.

Desperate to regain power, Najib-Ud-Daula allied with Afghan King Ahmad Shah Abdali, plotting to invade India. This collaboration threatened the already fragile equilibrium and set the stage for an impending conflict that would reshape the region.

In light of the growing threat, the Peshwa and Sadashiv decided to mobilize their troops to protect Delhi. They soon recognized they were outnumbered and Sadashiv proposed gathering additional allies to bolster their military strength against Abdali's forces.

The Maratha troops faced significant logistical issues while attempting to cross the turbulent Yamuna River. These challenges hindered their advance and tested their resolve to maintain momentum in their mission to defend Delhi.

Parvati Bai took the initiative and sought help from Sakina Begum to secure vital provisions for the Maratha forces. Her determination contributed to the morale of the troops and ultimately assisted in their efforts to reach Delhi swiftly.

As the Maratha forces reached Delhi ahead of Abdali, tensions mounted. Sadashiv's strategic negotiations with local leaders aimed to establish a Mughal ruler under Maratha influence to maintain control during this turbulent period.

The decisive battle unfolded on January 14, 1761, as both armies collided in a ferocious clash. Sadashiv orchestrated a tactical approach, but Abdali's forces fought with a fierce intensity, resulting in a devastating loss for the Marathas and a significant shift in power dynamics.

In the heat of battle, Sadashiv faced betrayal from an allied Indian king, leading to his increased vulnerability against Abdali's relentless forces. Despite fighting valiantly, he ultimately succumbed, marking a tragic end to his endeavors.