Question

Explain how the expeditions of Malwa and Bundelkhand prove to be beneficial for the Marathas.

Answer 1

Instructions :

1. The answer should have at least 6-9 points.
2. Mention how the Malwa expedition was carried out.
3. Explain how the Bundelkhand expedition was carried out.
4. Mention the opportunities which opened up due to these expeditions.

Solution:

Malwa Expedition:
The Malwa region of present-day Madhya Pradesh was under the rule of the Mughals. Malharrao Holkar, Ranoji Shinde, and Udaji Pawar were sent by Bajirao to Malwa. Chimajiappa, the brother of Bajirao, led the expedition to Malwa and strengthened the Maratha posts there.

Bundelkhand Expedition:
The Bundelkhand region is made up of parts from present-day Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. The areas near Jhansi, Panna, and Sagar came under it. Chhatrasal was the ruler of the independent kingdom of Bundelkhand. A Mughal Subhedar by the name of Mohmmad Khan Bangush from Allahabad attacked the kingdom and defeated Chhatrasal.

Chhatrasal sought Bajirao’s help. Bajirao proceeded to Bundelkhand with a huge army and defeated Bangush. Bajirao was honoured by King Chhatrasal and the Marathas became an influential force in Malwa and Bundelkhand.

The expeditions of Malwa and Bundelkhand expanded the presence of the Marathas in Central India and gave them an opportunity to explore the possibility of setting up posts in the north.