17 Facts About Mahadaji Shinde

Mahadaji Shinde, later known as Mahadji Scindia or Madhava Rao Scindia, was a Maratha statesman and general subordinate to the Peshwa who served as the Maharaja of Gwalior from 1768 to 1794.

Mahadaji Shinde was the fifth and the youngest son of Ranoji Rao Scindia, the founder of the Scindia dynasty.

Mahadaji Shinde is reputed for having restored the Maratha rule over North India and for modernizing his army.

Mahadaji Shinde modernized his army under adventurers like Benoit de Boigne, which allowed Maratha dominance of North India.

Mahadji Shinde fought about 50 battles in his lifetime against various opponents.

Chaurasia says in regards to Mahadaji Shinde's relationship with Shah Alam II that though the Shah Alam II was in name the sovereign of India in practice he was a puppet overseen by Mahadaji Shinde.

The Marathas under the leadership of Mahadji Mahadaji Shinde entered the land of Sardar Najib-ud-Daula which was held by his son Zabita Khan after the sardar's death.

Mahadji Mahadaji Shinde captured the family of Zabita Khan, desecrated the grave of Najib ad-Dawlah and looted his fort.

Mahadaji Shinde bound himself to pay on behalf of the Rohillas.

Mahadaji Shinde's achievements impressed Timur Shah Durrani, ruler of Afghanistan.

Mahadaji Shinde sent peace proposals to Mahadaji Shinde offering the Marathas dominion up to Lahore and the Shah should have control beyond that territory.

Mahadaji Shinde unleashed untold atrocities on the royal family and common populace, slaughtering thousands and looting about 22 Crores.

Mahadaji Shinde worked with the English during the revolt of 1781 and played an important role in capturing Maharaja Chait Singh of Benares and crushing the revolt Another achievement of Mahadji was his victory over the Nizam of Hyderabad.

Mahadaji Shinde left no male heir, and was succeeded by Daulat Rao Scindia.

Keeney, the English biographer of Mahadaji Shinde, has described Mahadaji as the greatest man in India in the 18th century.

Mahadaji Shinde's role was instrumental in establishing Maratha supremacy over North India.

Mahadaji Shinde Chhatri, located in Wanawadi, in Pune is a memorial dedicated to Mahadji Mahadaji Shinde.