What Is The Third Battle Of Panipat, Recently Mentioned By Fadnavis?
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavi mentioned the Third Battle of Panipat while speaking in the State Assembly during a debate on the ‘Last Week Motion’ initiated by the Opposition. Fadnavis said that the Third Battle of Panipat was a testament of the Marathas bravery. He spoke about the Marathas’ valour in the historic battle against Afghan ruler Ahmad Shah Abdali.
Notably, Maharashtra government is constructing a Shiv Smarak in Agra. and also, land is being acquired in Panipat, Haryana to commemorate the Maratha’s role in the battle.
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Notably, the Maratha-Mughal controversy has taken political limelight in the past few weeks after the Director Laxman Utekar’s historical drama Chhaava based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, starring Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna was released.
Third Battle of Panipat
- The Third Battle of Panipat was fought on January 14, 1761 between Maratha Empire and Durrani Empire (Afghan forces led by Ahmed Shah Abdali). Maratha leader Sadashivrao Bhau led a troop of around 70,000-100,000.
- The battle took place near Panipat, Haryana, when Marathas launched an aggressive attacks, initially gaining an advantage. However, Abdali’s tactical skills and superior cavalary turned the course of the battle. Marathas suffered a massive defeat with over 40,000 soldiers killed and many more taken as prisoners.
- Maratha power weakened significantly and Peshwas Balaji Baji Rao, said to be died in grief, after the loss. Later, Marathas reorganised and recaptured Delhi in 1771 under Mahadji Scindia.
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- Eventually, Abdali failed to establish a long-term control over India even after being victorious and retreated to Afghanistan.
- The Third Battle of Panipat is said to be a turning point in Indian History weakening Maratha dominance and setting stage for British colonial expansion.
- It remains one of the largest battles fought in the 18th century.
