Raghuji Bhonsle I

Context-

The state government of Maharashtra has reclaimed the famous “Raghuji Sword” of the 18th century Maratha general Raghuji Bhonsle I for Rs 47.15 lakh at an auction in London, United Kingdom.

Raghuji Bhonsle I (also spelled as Raghoji Bhonsale I) was a prominent Maratha general and the founder of the Nagpur Bhonsle dynasty in the early 18th century. He played a crucial role in expanding Maratha influence in central and eastern India.

Early Life and Background

• Raghuji Bhonsle belonged to a cadet branch of the Bhonsle clan, originally based in the Satara region.
• He was a distant relative of Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire.
• Initially served as a Maratha military commander under Shahu I, the Chhatrapati of Satara, during the early 18th century.

Quick Overview:

• Full Name: Raghuji Bhonsle I
• Dynasty: Bhonsle (a branch of the Marathas)
• Reign: Early 18th century (circa 1730–1755 as the ruler of Nagpur)
• Capital: Nagpur
• Founder of: Nagpur Kingdom

Key Facts:

• Origin: Raghuji was from the Bhonsle clan, which was closely related to Chhatrapati Shivaji’s family.
• Rise to Power: He gained prominence under the rule of Shahu Maharaj, the Maratha Chhatrapati, who appointed him as Senapati (commander-in-chief) for the eastern campaigns.
• Eastern Expeditions:
  • He conducted successful military campaigns in Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa.
  • He established Maratha authority in parts of Chhattisgarh and Odisha (then Orissa).
  • His expeditions brought in significant revenue through chauth (a tax collected by the Marathas).
• Nagpur Kingdom:
  • Raghuji made Nagpur his capital and developed it into a major Maratha center in central India.
  • He laid the foundation of what became a powerful semi-autonomous kingdom under Maratha suzerainty.
• Death: He passed away in 1755, and his successors continued to rule Nagpur until the British annexed it in the 19th century.

Legacy

• Considered the architect of the Nagpur Kingdom.
• Played a key role in expanding Maratha influence into eastern India.
• His rule marked the Maratha entry into Bengal and Orissa, which became contested zones between the Marathas and the British later on.
• Remembered for his military acumen, political maneuvering, and for establishing a lasting dynasty.

CBL Practice Questions for Prelims –

Raghuji Bhonsle I conducted several successful expeditions in the eastern parts of India. Which of the following regions did he bring under Maratha influence?

1. Bengal
2. Orissa
3. Gujarat
4. Bihar

Select the correct answer using the codes below:
A) 1, 2 and 3 only
B) 1, 2 and 4 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 3 and 4 only

Answer: ✅ B) 1, 2 and 4 only

CBL Mains Practice Question –

Discuss the role of Raghuji Bhonsle I in establishing the Bhonsle kingdom of Nagpur.
How did his political and military strategies contribute to the consolidation of Maratha power in Central India?

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