Marathi Latche Marathi Aetihasik Lekh Part 02

This Jain text, titled "Latche Marathi Aitihasik Lekh Part II," authored by Vidyanand Swami Shrivastavya and published by Aietihasik Gaurava Granthmala, focuses on the historical period in South Gujarat (Lat) from 1742 to 1818 AD. It specifically chronicles the rise and fall of the Maratha empire and the advent of the British, examining their relationship with the Bapsda Chaulukyas.

The author, a retired scholar with extensive research in Vedic and historical traditions, presents findings based on original sources. The book aims to shed light on a period of significant political and social upheaval, detailing the complexities of power dynamics between the Marathas, the British, and the local rulers.

Key themes and content likely covered, based on the provided text and typical historical analysis of this era, include:

• Maratha Administration and Decline: The text probably delves into the Maratha rule in South Gujarat, their administrative policies, and the internal issues that led to their decline. The author's preface strongly criticizes the Marathas for deviating from Shivaji Maharaj's original vision, becoming tyrannical, and treating their subjects and allies, particularly the Rajputs, with disrespect and broken promises.
• British Expansion and Influence: The book documents the arrival and increasing influence of the British in the region, their strategies for control, and how they interacted with the existing powers. The period from 1818 to 1828 AD is noted as the British period, with records written in Marathi and signed by British officers, indicating their direct involvement.
• The Chaulukyas of Bapsda (Vansda): A significant portion of the text appears dedicated to the history and lineage of the Chaulukyas of Vasudevapur (Bansda). It likely explores their struggles, their relationship with the Marathas and the British, and the internal succession disputes within their kingdom. The text highlights the persecution of the Bansda Chaulukyas by Maratha factions like the Dabhades and Gaikwads and notes that their services to Shivaji Maharaj were forgotten.
• Genealogical and Social Structures: The book appears to undertake a detailed examination of genealogies, pointing out contradictions and inaccuracies in existing records. It also touches upon the social customs and divisions within Rajput communities, specifically mentioning the Mota and Bhagatia subsections of the Basadias.
• Analysis of Historical Documents: The author emphasizes the use of original documents and scrutinizes various genealogical tables obtained from different sources, highlighting discrepancies and proposing his own meticulously researched genealogies based on authoritative documents.
• Critique of Historical Narratives: The author is critical of official historical publications, suggesting they often overlook or downplay the flaws of the ruling powers while exaggerating the weaknesses of their adversaries. He advocates for a balanced depiction of historical events.
• Specific Historical Events and Figures: The documents presented (Nos. 1-128) provide a detailed look at specific transactions, disputes, royal decrees, and administrative decisions during the period. These letters and documents illustrate the political maneuvering, financial dealings, and power struggles involving various individuals and authorities, including members of the Gaikwad and Dabhade families, Peshwas, and British officials. The succession disputes within the Bansda kingdom and the various claimants are also detailed.

In essence, "Latche Marathi Aitihasik Lekh Part II" is a scholarly work that aims to provide a critical and detailed historical account of a transformative period in South Gujarat, focusing on the intertwined fates of the Marathas, the British, and the local rulers, with a particular emphasis on the Chaulukyas of Bansda. The author's intention is to present a more accurate and nuanced understanding of this era by analyzing primary source material.