Historical Debate on Maratha Control over Jaisalmer
Why in the News ?
A recent NCERT Class 8 textbook map showing Jaisalmer within the Maratha Empire (1759) has drawn criticism from historians and local royalty, who argue that Jaisalmer was never under Maratha political control.
Historical Context and Maratha Expansion:
- In the 18th century, the Marathas expanded from the Deccan into parts of Rajasthan, Delhi, Punjab, Bundelkhand, Orissa, Bengal, and Bihar.
- Expansion was largely aimed at collecting tribute from former Mughal territories, not direct rule.
- Historian Stewart Gordon notes that once the main Maratha forces left, local rulers often reasserted independence.
- Richard Eaton describes Maratha rule as patchy and irregular in many northern regions.
Current Controversy and Scholarly Opinions
- Chaitanya Raj Singh of Jaisalmer’s royal family called the NCERT map historically misleading.
- Professors L. Bhadani and Pankaj Jha confirmed Jaisalmer was never a Maratha tributary.
- Rahul Magar stresses the difference between economic tribute and political authority.
- NCERT has announced a revision of the map to correct territorial representation.
Key points : Jaisalmer● Jaisalmer remained under the Bhati Rajput clan until independence. ● Even major Rajput states like Amber-Jaipur were irregular in paying tribute to the Marathas. ● Tribute collection did not equate to political sovereignty; occasional gifts or “nazars” cannot be classified as subordinate state obligations. ● Historians emphasise nuanced cartography, using shades to indicate direct control, tributary status, and sphere of influence. |