Third Battle of Panipat

The Third Battle of Panipat, fought on 14 January 1761, was one of the largest and bloodiest battles of the 18th century, decisively shaping the political future of India.

Background

Ahmad Shah Abdali (Durrani), the Afghan ruler, repeatedly invaded India, looting Delhi and Punjab. The Marathas, under Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao, had expanded into Punjab, ousting Abdali’s governor. Abdali sought to reassert control and called for a jihad against the Marathas, gaining support from the Rohilla Afghans and Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula of Awadh.

The Combatants

• Maratha Army: Commanded by Sadashivrao Bhau, cousin of the Peshwa. It included the forces of Holkar, Scindia, and other Maratha chiefs, numbering around 70,000–100,000, with many non-combatant camp followers. The Marathas were weakened by lack of supplies and support from regional powers.
• Abdali’s Coalition: Abdali’s experienced Durrani force, plus Rohillas, Awadh, and Baloch contingents.

The Battle

The two armies faced each other at Panipat for several months, with skirmishes. The decisive battle occurred on 14 January 1761. The Marathas initially advanced but Abdali’s use of reserve cavalry and mounted camel artillery broke the Maratha lines. The Maratha cavalry was not suited for static defensive warfare. Sadashivrao Bhau was killed, and Vishwasrao (the Peshwa’s son) also died. The battle ended in a catastrophic Maratha defeat, with tens of thousands killed and captured.

Aftermath

The Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao died of shock upon hearing the news. The Maratha Confederacy splintered, and their northward expansion was halted. However, Abdali could not hold India due to domestic issues and withdrawals. The real beneficiary was the British East India Company, which now faced a weakened Maratha power, paving the way for British supremacy.