Lashkar – Army of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

During the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the military system of Swarajya was built on discipline, merit, and moral conduct. Recruitment was strictly based on capability rather than heredity, ensuring efficiency and loyalty within the ranks.

Soldiers were paid regular salaries, and the practice of granting jagirs or personal land holdings was avoided. This ensured that the army remained directly loyal to the state rather than to individual commanders.

Strict military ethics were enforced. Soldiers were forbidden from harassing civilians, forcibly collecting supplies, or harming women and non-combatants. Any war booty collected during campaigns was mandatorily deposited into the state treasury.

The Maratha Army was broadly divided into three wings — Infantry, Cavalry, and Navy. The infantry followed a well-defined hierarchical structure, while the cavalry was divided into Bargirs (state horses) and Shiledars (private horses), each supported by logistical staff such as water carriers and farriers.

Shivaji Maharaj personally led many campaigns, often placing himself at the forefront of battle. He never allowed unnecessary loss of life and willingly risked his own safety to protect his soldiers.

The bond of trust between the king and his army inspired unmatched courage and loyalty. This moral strength enabled the Maratha forces to continue resisting powerful enemies even after Shivaji Maharaj’s lifetime.