[ETW AAR] The Maharatha Confederacy

[Majonga]

Authors Note:
Hello all, this is my first post on the site, but I have been a lurker for over a year now. I've always been interested in making my own AAR, but never really had the drive to do one. I've started this Maharatha campaign, and too be honest before I had even moved I had already written several pages of background, just by looking at the commanders and leaders. I don't know how long I will keep this AAR up, but I will continue to do so, so long as I have my muse.

On the subject of this AAR, and how it will be told, it will be from a historical perspective, kinda like reading a history book. It's got pictures for those who can't be bothered with that. However I have come up with a particularly rich and interesting political story that is interspersed with plenty of battles. I hope you enjoy it, for as long as it lasts.

Also, the difficulties were, Campaign: very Hard, Battles: Very Hard

Thanks,
Maj

Disclaimer: I am not that familiar with Indian politics and culture, bar some of my own knowledge and the power of wikipedia-foo so for those with deep knowledge of Indian history and culture, forgive any mistakes I may make.

Introduction:

India, 1700, The subcontinent is mostly dominated by the Mughal Empire, stretching from the Indus River in the west to the Brahmaputra River in the East and South as far as the Krishna River. The Islamic Mughals stamp their rule and religion over the predominately Hindu India. By force the Mughals submit the subcontinent to their rule, there is no escape from their power and the people of India yearn for a saviour in these desperate times. Just two states remain unconquered and free in the face of the Mughal Hordes. Sultan Chikka the First of Mysore is a scholar and rules the lands of Mysore in relative peace from his capitol in Seringapatam, having no interest in fighting the Mughals, and trading freely with them as a minor state. The other state, is not a state at all, but a confederacy of the last remaining Maharaja's in India, Hindu's ruled by Hindu's, Indians by Indians. The Confederacy is headed by the beautiful and ambitious Rajmata of Bijapur, Tarabai the First. It is in the hands of Tarabai and her allies that the people of the subcontinent set their hopes for freedom.

India, 1700

Leaders of the Confederacy:

Spoiler for Tarabai The First: 

Born in 1675 Tarabai became ruler of Bijapur after her husband's death in 1698 while battling the Mughals. Recorded as being exquisitely beautiful, Tarabai was a woman of power. "Her beauty is overshadowed only by her ambition" one of her generals said of her. She used her beauty as yet another tool in her art of persuasion, it was by courting all the other Maharaja's that she kept the confederacy together. She was a political animal of no compare in India, fuelled by a ruthlessness that shocked even some of her best soldiers. It was not unknown for her political enemies, after they had been crushed and defeated, to be fed to her pet tiger's, and it was through this that she became known as the "Tiger Empress". As well as being a treacherous and devious politician, she had a fondness for soldiers, and curried favour with only the most skilful or courageous warriors. She was keen to have the best generals and the most deveoped army in India, for more so than any pursuit, she delighted in war and conquering.

By 1700, 2 years after her husband's death Tarabai had the equivalent of 3, 5 star generals commanding her armies, each one was a Maharaja in his own right. financing and training their own armies. Tarabai had no standing army of her own, so her strength relied on those Maraharja's she could incite to join her side. She curried favour with each in turn, inspiring them to fight for her. Luckily for her, her beauty and seductive air, meant their was no lack of generals hoping to attain her favour.

Spoiler for Tarabai's Generals: 

Rustam Akurdikar was the ruler of the most powerful state in the confederacy. Maharaja of Satara he was a cold blooded and brutal commander, willing to sacrifice hundreds of men if it granted him victory. By 1700 he commanded the largest of the confederacy's armies, and was the favorite of Tarabai. His ambition was matched only by the Bijapur Rajmata, and he made it publicly known his intention to marry Tarabai and become ruler of a new Maharatha Empire. He despised and looked down upon the other generals which curried Tarabai's favour and convinced himself that she was in love with him. Akurdikar was also useful to Tarabai because of his dealings with foreigners. His trade with the Dutch had made Satara incredibly wealthy and he even employed European advisers to help him on campaign.

Jainil Rawat was a good friend of Tarabai's late husband. Now Regarded as probably the best of Tarabai's three generals Rawat gained little political power. He commanded the smallest of the confederacy's armies, and while he was clearly the most loyal of Tarabai's generals, he never curried favour with her. Bound by duty to his own wife and his soldiers Rawat disapproved of Akurdikar's ostentatiousness. Rawat was probably the closest Tarabai had to her own army, as Rawat operated out of Bijapur. This, rather than his skill or military might made him an important addition to Tarabai.

Balkrishna Indukuri was the rising star of the confederacy military. the youngest general and closest in age to Tarabai he was young and good looking. This dashing young man hailed from the south, Maharaja of Arcot. Dazzled by Tarabai's beauty in their first meeting, Indukuri immediately offered to fight on her behalf. Because of his infatuation with Tarabai he came into conflict with Akurdikar, and the two became fierce rivals, in any other circumstance the two probably would have gone to war with each other. On the battlefield, Indukuri believed in rapid marches, and quick decisive victories. He made effective use of scouts and was a very able commander. However although he was a skilled warrior, his political naivety made him easy bait for Tarabai, who at first took little interest in him.

[Majonga]

The Confederacy - 1700:

The Political Situation (January - March):

Tarabai ruled from her seat in Bijapur. The Confederacy was in open war with the Mughals and large armies were needed in order to engage the Empire. Armies cost money, and Tarabai curried favour with over 30 different rulers in order to persuade them fight for the Confederacy. If the Maharaja's would not spare troops, then they could also pay an annual sum to the Confederacy's coffers. The later was the more prominent choice and was the first step Tarabai took towards a centralised government.

In Kolhapur, Akurdikar funded research into new weapons, so that they might improve the Confederacy Military. He also helped to negotiate a trade deal with the British Empire, an ally of the Dutch. In response to these successes, Indukuri achieved an alliance with Mysore, making Chikka I a more active supporter of the Confederacy.

In early March, the situation with Akurdikar came to a head, He publicly asked for Tarabai's hand in marriage. Knowing she would lose support from other Maharaja's if she accepted, and perhaps by personal preferance, Tarabai refused Akurdikar's offer. Furious and publicly humiliated, Akurdikar returned his army to Satara, where he refused to march out. The rejection had major political consequences, as Tarabai lost the military might of Akurdikar, and almost a third of her land army. With Akurdikar sulking in his city, Tarabai was forced to find a new favourite.

Military Situation (April - June):

When news of Akurdikar's retreat to Satara reached the Mughal Commander Zulfikar Khan, who commanded the garrison of Hyderbad. He saw that the time was right. To strike the confederacy at it's heart. He marched out with 3 Dakhilis with the intention of capturing Tarabai in her capitol of Bijapur. The situation was desperate, and the Confederacy was facing total collapse. Rawat Immediately raced south with his 3 Tumans sending a hurried message to Indukuri, who was operating just north of Hyderbad, for reinforcements. Indukuri sent him his one and only Tuman and his best regards.

Spoiler for The Battle of Yadgir, 17th April 1700: 

Joined by Indukuri's Tuman, Rawat was able to field just 200 men, with no infantry or cannon against the Mughal force. Rawat's fast moving army was able to catch up with Zulfikar among the cotton plantations of Yadgir. Zulfikar's army comprised of mostly infantry with the usual compliment of war elephants, to a total of 260 men.

The battle, for all its strategic significance was brutally quick. As soon a Zulfikar was aware of Rawat's army he halted and occupied a small farm, planning to use the building and the low walls as defensive positions against the confederacy troops. Rawat divided his force in three, sending two Tumans onto each flank, while personally charging the Mughal centre. On the Left two tumans were repulsed by a group of hardy swordsmen in a bloody melee. However in the centre Rawat's elephants charged headlong into Zulfikars, the troops on their back's firing as they went. A lucky shot killed Zulfikar in the opening moments, and within minutes the right flanking Tumans crashed into the fight, breaking the Mughal line. The swordsmen who had repulsed the left flank, now attempted to reinforce the centre. but the Left flanking Tumans having regrouped charged into their backs. Engaged from the front and behind the swordsmen routed. Without ever firing a shot, the Mughal reserves fled, and within moments the Mughal army was either dead, or fleeing.

Overall the battle last 45 minutes, but in that time, the Mughal army suffered over 200 men, killed, wounded or missing. the Confederacy, 75 men killed, wounded or missing. The battle was a decisive victory and eliminated the vast majority of the Hyderbad garrison and in the process the main southern army of the Empire.

Following the battle, Rawat moved south chasing the survivors of Yadgir, now commanded by Kam Rathor, to the town of Guntakal on the banks of the Krishna River. While Zulfikar had marched out, Indukuri had seen his own chance. Leaving the fate of the confederacy in Rawat's hands, he had marched forward, quickly besieging Hyderbad while half it's garrison was away. Hyderbad was the key city of the South and the Mughals main Stronghold in the area. It was therefore of Vital strategic Importance.

Spoiler for The Siege of Hyderbad, April - June 1700: 

Indukuri surrounded the West fort, and cut off the approaches to the city. Rather than risk a costly assault, for which he was ill equipped, Indukuri resolved to starve his enemy out. His position was further strengthened by Rawat's victory at Yadgir, he made the news known to the defenders, attacking their morale. When Akurdikar heard the news of Indukuri's siege, he scoffed doubting the youth's ability to take the city. His view was not so outrageous. The confederacy had besieged Hyderbad twice before and each had ended in disaster.

The Political Situation: (June - November):

Although The Confederacy had been saved from immediate disaster at Yadgir, and they now besieged Hyderbad, the situation was no less perilous. Even more enraged by Rawat and Indukuri's successes in his absence, Akurdikar twice purposely flaunted the chance to intercept Mughal forces, which attacked along the coast, burning the rice fields at Khed. Akurdikar's refusal to act placed the Maharatha forces in extreme danger, and forced Tarabai to attempt to reason with him. However, Akurdikar would accept nothing less than marriage to Tarabai, which the stubborn "Tiger Empress" was unwilling to submit to. Now in the desperate situation, Tarabai wrote to Indukuri, pleading with him to take Hyderbad. This success would disrupt Akurdikar's support among the Maharaja's forcing him to either back down or once again take the initiative. To make things worse, the trade routes with Britain and the Netherlands were being raided by pirates. Now money began to dry up, and without Akurdikar's monetary support, The Confederacies funds were quite enfeebled.

Military Situation (November - December):

Having received a pleading message from Tarabai, Indukuri was torn. Any assault on Hyderbad with his current forces would surely be bloody, but he could not pass down his chance. With Akurdikar, his main rival, sulking in his city, any successes he made would be twofold, and rescuing Tarabai in her time of need would surely endear her two him.

Spoiler for Assault on Hyderbad, 3rd of November 1700: 

Resolved to attack, Indukuri gathered his forces for an attack on the west side of the West Fort, at dawn on the 3rd of November. He had over 500 men under his command, the enemy just over 350, scouts reported that Kam Rathor had arrived in the area, having escaped north when Rawat had withdrawn to defend Bijapur. This drew his opposing forces up to roughly 400-500 men.

With no artillery to speak of, Indukuri was forced to accept an escapade assault on the walls. The attack began at dawn. Advancing under heavy cannon fire, Indukuri's plan involved seizing the walls either side of the main gate. allowing his elephants and cavalry to charge into the fort. the slope up to the walls was steep slowing his advance but the young general remained among the lines, though his elephant's presented large targets. to the left of the gatehouse was well defended and many men were lost.

On the right, there were almost no defenders, and the men quickly advanced. But the reason behind this was brutally discovered when the wall exploded. The defenders had dug a tunnel under the wall, placing explosives in the tunnel, and alighting the fuse at a choice moment. The ensuing blast killed almost 60 men of the attacking force. Despite this, the attackers forged on, capturing the gatehouse and allowing the cavalry to charge into the fort.

In the breach formed by the mine, Indukuri himself charged using his war elephants to clear a path. Here Indukuri was killed his mighty war elephant brought down. Moments later the Mughal garrison commander, Daud Kachwaha was also killed. The Confederacy forces fought on after Indukuri's death, but to no avail. After 3 hours battle, the army fell back. Over 400 men had fallen in the attack, the defenders losing just as many, but with Indukuri dead the seige was broken, and the Confederacy fell back.

The bloody failed attack on Hyderbad ended the year on a bad note. It is said that following Indukuri's death Tarabai wept, and retreated to her quarters for almost a month. The situation for the Confederacy was now critical. Though several Maharaja's promised troops Indukuri's army would be difficult to replace, and in the meantime, a Mughal army lay camped in Confederacy territory. With Akurdikar still refusing to fight the confederacy was almost defenceless.

[Majonga]

The Confederacy - 1701

Political Situation (January - June):

The Mughal army struck hard into the Confederacy, Attacks were made on Bijapur and Kolhapur. The Mughal Navy blockaded the ports of Vengurla and Calicut effectively cutting off the Confederacy from the rest of the world. In the shadow of Indukuri's defeat, it looked like the confederacy would certainly crumble. Rawat became Tarabai's main general and the survivors of Indukuri's army were merged with his. The one advantage of the Mughal invasion was that more Maharaja's provided troops and Rawat was reinforced by nearly 100 men. Indukuri's brother, who had taken over following his brother's death, sent nearly 300 more men north, Under the command of 32 year old Malharrao Malwade.

Akurdikar still refused to fight, even after his ally Kolhapur was attacked. and so his 800 men remained in place. So for months the Mughals moved freely, while Rawat attempted to gather the forces needed to drive them out.

Military Situation (July - August):

By mid July Rawat had gathered almost 750 men to his banner, and had an army large enough to challenge Akurdikar. He marched forward and attacked the Mughal army, by this time commanded by Ram Daraz, at his camp outside Kolhapur.

Spoiler for The Battle of Kolhapur, August 12th 1701: 

Ram Daraz had sent troops to reinforce the spent defenders of Hyderbad, and was woefully unprepared for an attack. His reports had shown that in early January, Rawats army had been less than 300 strong. So when an army of over 750 men arrived he was quite surprised. Daraz had foolishly not pressed his advantage, and had allowed Rawat to gather a major force.

Rawat's army was still largely cavalry based, and lacking artillery, but 4 dakhili of infantry and two squadrons of elephants made his force imposing. The day of the battle began with a heavy rainstorm that muddied up the ground. However Rawat chose to attack now so that Daraz's Cannon would be as ineffective as possible.

Rawat's cavalry charged, and the Mughals retreated, thinking they had them on the run, Rawat's cavalry charged headlong into a trap, were many were gunned down by volleys from the Mughal infantry. Fortunately they were saved from disaster as the heavy rain dampened the enemy fire. Rawat ordered his infantry forward, where they pressed the enemy back once more, Cavalry flanked round the mughal line and the battle divulged into an hour long muddy slaughter. General Daraz was killed as he fled the battle. and following his death, the Mughals fled many hunted down by cavalry.

The battle cost Rawat almost 150 men, most of them cavalry but in exchange he had inflicted almost 300 casualties on the enemy, completely eradicating Daraz's army.

Rawat's victory at Kolhapur ended the immediate threat to confederacy but the fortress of Hyderbad remained in Mughal hands. Akurdikar was beginning to realise how his withdrawal from the field was damaging his interests. Twice in the last year Rawat had saved the confederacy and many blamed Alkurdikar for the losses of the past year, as he had allowed Daraz's army to slip south.

Military Situation (September - October):

Finally his second in command, Vyankoji Roy convinced him to make an offensive move. Roy was sent north with 300 men to take Ahmandnagar However upon arrival, Roy discovered the town to be defended by over 700 men. Roy commandeered 120 men from Fort Pratapgad to aid in his assault. Knowing that he couldn't back down without disgraced, and encouraged by the fact that this was his chance to gain fame Roy made his attack on the 29th of November.

Spoiler for Battle of Ahmadnagar, 29th October 1701: 

at 9am Roy's artillery opened fire, bombarding the town and scattering it's defenders. He ordered a full advance. His cavalry engaged first, charging headlong into the counter attacking Mughal infantry. Infantry support wasn't far behind and Roy's left was quickly engaged. Though his cavalry were routed, Roy's infantry drove forward, routing 3 whole Mughal Dakhilis and smashing into two more. All the while his artillery bombarded the garrisoned buildings in the town.

With over half of the enemy routed the Confederate troops stormed forward into the town, artillery fire had almost completely destroyed the fastidious town hall leaving it a burning ruin. Roy's troops stormed two smaller buildings held by the enemy as bitter door to door fighting began inside the town. Outside, Roy himself battled flanking units which sought to take out his guns and end the heavy bombardment. Several charges with his elephants broke the attackers and he chased them from the field

Eventually the Mughals began to evacuate the burning townhall, and the Confederates moved in to finish off the last defence in the town. Despite desperate fighting Roy's advance continued, his regular troops of a much higher calibre than their militia opponents. Despite a brave and spirited defence, Ahmadnagar was captured in a decisive confederate victory. Roy had suffered over 100 men Killed or wounded, but inflicted nearly 7 times that on the Mughal defenders.

Poltical Situation (November - December):

The victory at Ahmadnagar catapulted Roy to success, but for Alkurdikar the plan backfired. Ahmadnagar was Roy's victory not his, and Tarabai, who had remained politicly quiet for several months, sprung into action. For the last year, since Indukruri's death Rawat had taken the helm and become a third power in his own right. Still aligned against Alkurdikar but no longer subject to Tarabai's whims. She had Roy made Maharaja of Ahmadnagar, releasing him from Alkurdikar's service. The young and successful general was quickly under her spell and Roy switched sides in the political battle for control of the Confederacy. Now with Roy fighting for her, Tarabai had equalled the field politically, and Alkurdikar had fallen by the wayside after his military was halved. Also his power over Tarabai was broken, he would have to go on the offensive if he was to regain his position as the most powerful member, and therefore exert his influence on the confederacy government.

Spoiler for Vyankoji Roy: 

Vyankoji Roy was a young noble who had by the young age of 21 attained rank as Akurdikar's 2nd in command. The young man was a skilled general, but also incredibly ambitious, courageous and aggressive. He was probably the most upset by Akurdikar's refusal to take battle. Finally able to convince the Maharaja to allow Roy to take the offensive, he attacked Ahmadnagar even though he was outnumbered nearly two to one. His victory there despite fierce Mughal resistance removed him from his sole Military role and into the Political arena, as he was made a Maharaja for his service to the Confederacy. The young general was no match for the devious and seductive Tarabai and he quickly dropped all allegiance to Satara. The young Hero became famous overnight his young and audacity quickly took the place of the fallen Indukuri in the hearts of the nation.

Author's Note: Phew, it's taken me almost 8 hours just to do 4 turns, which is pretty ridiculous, but so far I think it has come out well. Whether or not this AAR continues is all down to how I feel tommorow, as a good nights sleep may make me change my mind completely. Anyway thanks for reading this. I hope you enjoyed my first few posts on this Forum.

[dardy]

I enjoyed this alot I hope you do continue

[Musthavename]

Glad to see another newbie take up AAR-ing!

This is pretty good. Nicely and consicely written. Keep up the good work. Also, don't feel you need to put things in spoilers, though if you'd rather, that's fine.

[Majonga]

The Confederacy - 1702

Political Situation (January - May):

With Roy successful at Ahmadnagar, Akurdikar was forced to march out, lest he lose his position. When Roy had changed sides, he had taken over 400 of Akurdikar's men with him. Almost halving his force. Meanwhile Hyderbad in the East remained a Mughal Stronghold, and was a threat to the confederacy's heartland. Akurdikar gathered some 300 men to his command and marched to Hyderbad, declaring it would fall before the year is out. At Mabubnagar he met up and merged his force with Malharrao Malwade representative for the southern Maharaja's and Indukuri's immediate replacement. Malwade had barely 300 men, and was no political power, in fact he had largely been ignored by the big players. However Akurdikar saw a chance to stretch his influence south, and to gain a new supporter in the form of Malwade.

Discontent in Ahmadnagar, forced Roy to halt the tax system, and hold his garrison in place. The Victory just 4 months ago had pushed the Mughals as far north as the Narmada River almost 100 miles north. Roy decided to take this time to strengthen his position, gather more troops and make the newly liberated territory a contributing member to the confederacy.

Military Situation (June - July):

In June, Mughal commander Qazi Suresh marched south with 400 men, intent on driving the confederacy away from Hyderbad. Supported by the 400 men strong garrison of Hyderbad, Akurdikar and Malwade were attacked at their camp in Mabubnagar.

Spoiler for Battle of Mabubnagar, 8th of July 1702: 

Akurdikar placed his infantry along a stone wall forming Malwade's elephants and swordsmen behind them, his single Tuman of cavalry lay in wait on the right flank ready to sweep in upon the attacking force. The Mughals didn't waste time awaiting reinforcements, and marched forward at once. Three Dakhilis attacked the stone wall. The two sides traded fire back and forth. The Mughals fell back and then attacked again. This time 1 unit reached the centre of the line and a bloody melee began as they sought to break the centre.



Meanwhile Kam Rathor commander of the Hyderbad Garrison and successful leader at the fighting around Yadgir and Hyderbad during 1701, lead a flanking attack with a single dakhili and his elephants. Their heavy volleys rained down on the confederates, and Akurdikar himself lead a unit of swordsmen to drive off the attack. On the right, a unit of Qizibashi Musketeers had rained disciplined volleys on the stone wall, and now met a cavalry charge head on, a bloody volley at a bare few paces, turned the charge into a bloody roll. they easily routed the charge and continued pressing the right. On the left, Kam Rathor was wounded and his attack fell back , but by this time Mughal reinforcements arrived. Camel riders checked AKurdikar's counter attack.

Dervishes and Qizibashi troops swept up to the stone wall, where Malwabe sent in all his reserves to hold them. on the left, Alkurdikar ordered a counter attack in an attempt to break the 3rd assualt before it could form. The attack on the stone wall broke and Malwabe swept forward, soon the whole Mughal army was in flight as the 3rd wave swarmed forward into the ruins of the 2nd. In the confusion Islamic and Hindu swordsmen duelled until finally the Mughals were forced to retreat.



The Mughals suffered a crushing defeat, losing 3/4 of their army, either killed, wounded or missing. Despite being heavily outnumbered and in some cases out gunned, the confederate troops put up a heavy fight and despite losing over a third of their army they didn't take a step back.

The battle proved Akurdikar's strength and the battle was recognised as his victory. Even though he had lead a counter on the left, Malwabe had held the centre against overwhelming odds and many of the captains claimed Malwabe was more responsible for victory than the bloodthirsty Alkurdikar, but at the time, Malwabe was a political nobody. Most Importanty, the Mughal losses left Hyderbad open and Alkurdikar seized his chance, he laid seige to Hyderbad in what became the 4th Siege of Hyderbad.

Political Situation (August - September):

In early August a spy was captured in Bijapur and Tarabai had him torn apart by her pet tigers as entertainment for her guests. It is said Rawat left the room in disgust, Roy notably was shocked at the chance of spies infiltrating his lands, and he became more cautious in this respect. Meanwhile riots in Ahmadanagar resulted in several hundred deaths and severe damage to property. Roy was forced to send his troops to deal with the riots.

At this time, Rawat had finished recovering from last seasons battle and divided his army, Several Dakhili were sent to garrison the port of Vengurla, protecting it from Mughal raids. Rawat in the meantime was able to negotiate a rights of passage agreement with Chikka of Mysore. Allowing his armies to move through Mysore Territory greatly improving confederacy trade and military links. This was in response to Mughal troops attacking south into Carnatica, and the southern Maharaja's.

Military Situation (November - December):

While Rawat moved through Mysore in an attempt to reinforce the south lands, Akurdikar and Malwabe continued the siege of Hyderbad. The city was no less defended than any time before, but unlike before Mughal presence in the south had deteriorated after a number of major Confederacy victories. Akurdikar was confident that they could maintain the siege.

[dezikeizer]

This is really good, especially for a first aar. I'll be watching for more updates of this one!

[Majonga]

The Confederacy 1703

Military Situation (January):

In an attempt to open new front on the Confederacy and take pressure off the troops in Hyderbad. The Mughal's sent Sikander Panni south with 210 men, to attack the lands of the southern Maharajas. Panni found the lands woefully undefended, and without delay assaulted the fortified town of Arcot. The home of the slain general Indukuri. Only local militia was organised to defend the town, to a total of 240 untrained troops. However they had the bonus of fortifications to aid in their defence. Nonetheless the south had not known such a dire situation.

Spoiler for The Seige of Arcot, 7th January - 2nd February 1703: 

On January 7th 1703 Panni laid seige to Arcot. Although outnumbered by the defenders, Panni knew his army was more disciplined and better equipped. His intention to starve the defenders out was foiled as word reached him that Rawat was only a few days march from his position. Having crossed Mysore to reach the city much faster than expected. Panni knew he could either attack (a move which he was not yet prepared) or retreat. A retreat would mean the failure of the campaign. On the morning of February 1st 1703 Panni ordered the attack.

A light mist had settled over the land on the morning. Panni's army consisting of 2 tumans of camel gunners and a Dakhili of Dervishers meant he wasn't truly prepared for the assualt, it all rested on the Dervishers opening the gates for the cavalry. The Dervishers advanced under cannon fire from the defenders, but they had chosen to attack on the lightly defended North wall. The dervishers gained the walls with minimum losses and a bloody fight began to stop the attackers from gaining the gatehouse.

The wall defenders were slaughtered to a man. While the other 3 units of militia opened fire with ragged and ineffective musket volleys. Urged on by few casualties the Dervishers stormed the centre of the fort. intending to win the fight without ever needing the cavalry. As it looked they would succeed. one unit stood their ground nobly in the face of the Dervisher charge, desperately trying to hold their position. Captain Vaidya, commander of the garrison brought two more units in from behind, sending volley's into the Dervishers.

Nonetheless the Mughals captured the centre, and struck again to break Captain Vaidya's lines. but by this point, having taken over 50% casualties the Dervishers broke and were captured. Panni was furious, the assault would clearly succeeded if the Dervishers had followed his plan, but instead they had attempted to steal the glory for themselves. Now he had lost his only infantry unit. with Rawat's army closing in from the north, and without the men neccessary to take the town, Panni was forced to retreat. The defenders had sacrificed almost 2/3rds of their number for just 100 foes.

The next day the siege broke, Panni retreating north and out of Confederate territory. The attack, although defeated by a narrow margin, showed the southern maharajas their weak defences, and Immediately a new army was requisitioned. The fighting with which 1703 began would only intensify throughout the year.

Political Situation (February - March):

In 1703, the plug bayonet became available to the forces of the confederacy, work began on improving cannon technology, which all generals agreed needed updating, especially with the growing number of sieges throughout India.

In the south Mysore entered into a trade disagreement with Portugal, that lead to war in February 1703. By the end of march, Goa had fallen and the Portuguese garrison massacred. In support of their allies the Confederacy cut all connections to Portugal.

The political situation was now tenuously balanced. Akurdikar had regained his place after his victory last year. Tarabai held the support of the youthful Roy, who lay in Amadnagar. Rawat still controlled the largest army, but as he moved south to fight Panni, his influence waned. He left his second in command Abhinit Uppalapati with 500 men in Vengurla with strict instructions to protect Rawat's interest in the land.

Spoiler for Abhinit Uppalapati: 

Uppalapati had served with Rawat for almost 20 years. A stalwart commander, he cared little for politics and focused solely on soldiering. For the last 3 years, while Rawat entered the political forum, Uppalapati had remained his anchor to the soldier's world. His loyalty was unquestionable, he saved Rawat's life two times, most recently in the bloodbath of Kolhapur. In the north during the Narmada Rebellion, his age and experience served well alongside, Roy's youth and audacity.

Military Situation (April - May):

In the north, a pro Mughal rebellion began on the banks of the Narmada, In what became the "Narmada Rebellion", Mughal forces marched out from Berar and Malwa. To make matters worse Kam Rathor escaped the confines of Akurdikar's seige and met up with troops from the north he now turned south to relieve Hyderbad. With Rawat far to the south pursuing Panni and Akurdikar dug in around Hyderbad, It fell to Roy to fight off this offensive. To support Roy, Uppalapati marched north from Vengurla and camped outside Amadnagar. Holding the city while Roy marched north to face the rebellion.

Spoiler for Battle of Jalgoan, 21st May 1703: 

As September dawned, Roy's army had advanced to the banks of the Tapi river. The Narmada Rebellion had begun in the town of Khandwa in January, less than 6 months later the rebels had raised an army of over 800 men and encamped around the village of Jalgoan, less than 100 miles south of it's origin. Roy's army, less than half that of the Rebels, attacked their position on the afternoon of the 21st of May. The Rebel army, although numerous could only supply 1/4 of their men with muskets. While Roy's army included a balance of musketeers, swordsmen, cavalry and even artillery.

Throughout the morning heavy showers created a muddy battleground between the two armies and any chance the Confederates had at surprise was lost. However In a small break in the weather, Roy's guns opened fire, beginning the battle at 12:45pm. Roy held the high ground above the village and continued to bombard the rebel lines, attempting to force them to attack his defensive position. As the rebels attempted to move into the shelter of a reverse slope their right flank became drawn out.

As an opening move, and an attempt to even the scales, Roy sent in his cavalry. The ploy worked and the rebels launched an all out attack. The single tuman of lancers were successful in tying up more than 300 rebel troops on the right. On the left rebel troops struggled up the wooded slope, made worse by the mud. Disciplined volleys from Roy's infantry broke the attackers ranks as they came on.

Having driven off over 100 rebels the lancers raced back to the lines, while Roy reformed his men on the right. The woods on the left became a melee as the swordsmen moved forward from reserve. Finally, around four o'clock the tired and confused rebel force organised an assault of some 600 men on Roy's line. In the downpour, Roy rallied his men for the climax of the battle. Cannon fired gouging huge lines out of the attackers as they struggled up the slope. Volley's of musket fire whipped along the attackers lines. As the attackers slowly reached the crest Roy ordered the men to fix bayonets . Screaming warcry's the confederate line swept forward. The attack faltered and broke, Into the screaming mass of fleeing warriors charged Roy's elephants.

In under an hour the rebels were utterly vanquished. The massive victory cut the heart from the rebellion. Roy had suffered barely 20 men killed or wounded, one of them had fallen and broken hill leg. 670 men lay dead or wounded across the hillside. Roy was applauded for his initiative and brutal effectiveness in crushing the rebellion and with the incredibly low casualties.

Political Situation (June):

The effect of the Narmada Rebellion was twofold. The forces at Jalgoan were fighting for their own independence, against the Confederacy (though supported by the Mughals, who were looking to undermine the Confederacy in any way). It was a shocking realisation among the leaders of the Confederacy , the people of the subcontinent had no more wish to be ruled by the Confederacy than it did the Empire. It changed the mindset of the war from that of Liberation, to that of Conquest. Now the confederacy and the Empire were two great factions fighting over the fate of the greatest prize, India.

The 2nd effect showed the effectiveness of modern day military tactics, artillery fire, Disciplined Volley's and bayonet charges would be the war of the future. Roy had established himself as the future and with him he established Tarabai as the future. The defeat of the rebellion greatly increased Roy and therefore Tarabai's, reputation. Roy had established himself as a great general and equal to Rawat and Akurdikar. The news of his victory spurred Akuridikar to speed up the fall of Hyderbad. With Kam Rathor on his way south, the people had not forgotten his promise that Hyderbad would fall within the year and over a year had already passed, while he whittled away his time outside it's walls. This situation was clamouring for more pro-active measures.

Military Situation (July - August):

The year 1703 had already seen two major battles at Arcot and Jalgoan. Five more battles would characterise the year before it's end, July 1703 would witness three of these battles Manmad, Pune and Hyderbad all fought within a week of each other.

Although the rebels had been crushed at Jalgoan the situation was far from safe in the North. Two Mughal armies were still pressing into Confederate Territory hoping to recapture Amadnagar. Both sides manoeuvred their armies, attempting to bring the other to battle. On the 12th Roy's army, fresh from victory would clash with Nizam Panni's army at Manmad, Panni's brother had earlier that year been repulsed at Arcot. The same day Uppalati marched out of Amadnagar and finally caught the Mughals at Pune on the 13th.

Spoiler for The Battle of Manmad, July 12th 1703: 

At Manmad, a town barely 50 miles south of Jalgoan, Roy intercepted Nazim Panni's advance. Outnumbering his opponent Roy attacked, once again the battlefield suffered from poor weather and a light mist formed over the battlefield. The Confederate army number some 450 men, the same balanced and modern army that had annihilated the Narmada Rebellion in May. Panni's army, like his brothers had a large amount of cavalry, but they also sported 12 pounder cannons. Such advanced weaponry was still in development for the Confederacy.

The two armies faced each other, daring each other to attack their defensive positions. Roy, up on a prominent hill wanted to draw his opponent onto his defence, and was loath to descend on the flat ground where the enemies cavalry would be most effective.As was his usual tactic, Roy sent forward his cavalry, to tempt the enemy forward. However panni was not so foolish, he kept his troops from pursuing the confederate. Finally after over 2 hours wait, Roy ordered the advance. Panni had won the first clash.

The 12 pounders made the advance a misery. They were far more accurate than the confederate counterparts and many men fell, swept away by the cannonballs. Halfway across the battlefield the repulsed a charge by enemy camels, The advance continued. The Confederates swept into the woods among the Mughal position. Mughal levies clashed with Hindu swordsmen while the musketeers moved forward hesitantly fearing a cavalry charge on the flanks Volley's were passed back and forth between Mughal dragoons and confederate infantry, Grapeshot, the first of it's kind used in India, raked the confederate lines.

The confederates forced their way forward, thier cavalry smashing the Mughals from the right, while swordsmen supported them. Musket volley's broke the cavalry units before they could charge. Eventually Panni ordered the retreat over an hour and a half of heavy fighting. The Victory wasn't as decisive as the confederates had hoped, despite nearly heavy losses on both sides, the confederates held the field and Panni's army had been driven from it. However Panni escaped south and made for the captured port of Vengurla.

Spoiler for The Battle of Pune, July 13th 1703: 

The battle fought at Pune, the day after the victory at Manmad was smaller and much more one-sided, 500 men under Uppalapati caught the 240 man strong Mughal army at their encampment in Pune, just a days march from Satara. The weather from Yesterday had cleared up a little, but the battle suffered periodic showers. Greatly outnumbering his opponent Uppapati moved his army in a full advance. The Mughals had decided to make their stand on a small knoll.

In the woods on the flank a brief bloody melee routed the Mughal pikemen, while the two lines traded fire. Confederate drill and numbers meant the fight was a foregone conclusion. However the Mughal defence was stalwart, and frustrated with the progress Uppalapati ordered they fix bayonets and charge. With Elephants the confederates raced forward. To the credit of the Mughal troops they stood their ground and faced the charge, but with the pikemen streaming from the woods and the disruptive line breaking powers of Elephants, the Mughal line was crushed. The battle lasted just over 1 hour.

Despite overwhelming numbers, Pune was also indecisive with both sides suffering around 150 casualties. Over 100 Mughal troops escaped north to Surat.

Following their victory at Mabubnagar, Akurdikar and Malwade laid seige to hyderbad for the 4th time since the beginning of the war. For a whole year they sat outside it's walls, the longest the city had ever gone without relief, but now at last Kam Rathor was on his way south. Knowing he couldn't fight with his back to city, and knowing the defenders were weak and exhausted. Akurdikar prepared to storm the city.

Spoiler for 2nd Assualt on Hyderbad, 16th July 1702 - 30th July 1703: 

Akurdikar and Malwade's combined force numbered almost 700 men, the enemies estimated number was 450 men. With numerical and strategic advantage, Akurdikar was confident of victory.

Akurdikar like those before him was forced to make an escalade assualt on the city. He concentrated his attack on the West fort, which had been the position of Indukuri's attack 2 years ago. He divided his army into three attack parties. 2 either side of the West gate, while the third attacked the North wall. The two generals held their elephants in reserve, ready to storm the fort once the gates were open. The attack took place under cover of heavy rain.

The Confederates marched up towards the wall cannonballs bouncing around them. A unit of Camel gunners, supported by infantry charged out, they were met by the Elephants. The North attack began fighting a counter attack halfway to the wall. The elephants routed most of the counter attack before it could have any effect.

When the attack on the walls finally came, the Tactics of Akurdikar showed themselves, each force was made up of 1 unit of swordsmen and 1 unit of musketeers. As the swordsmen scaled the wars the Musketeers gave cover fire. In the North, a unit of Zamindari Pikemen held against the North assault force in the woods. They were eventually outflanked and attacked from behind by a unit of swordsmen, but they succeeded in holding off a third of the attacking army.

The walls suffered in the same way as the Assualt 2 years ago had. A mine set in the wall exploded, killing many attackers, heavy fighting began over the ruins as the gates fell and the elephants charged in.

Here elephant faced elephant as Kam Rathor entered the crumbling fortress once more. A titanic battle began as all three generals fought hand to hand.

Eventually a volley from nearby troops brought down Rathor's mighty steed. Kam Rathor, the most ablest of the Mughal commanders in the south had been killed. With his death all will to resist was lost and the defenders surrendered.

The fall of the West Fort had cost some 800 men from both sides, but the confederacy had been triumphant. With the West Fort's collapse, the city surrendered. Hyderbad, the city of the south. Key to the Mughals continuation of the war had fallen. Kam Rathor, their most successful general was dead.

Political Situation (August - December):

"The War was won that day" was said by Akurdikar remembering the fall of Hyderbad. His victory sent a shock wave throughout India. Until that day, the world had viewed the Confederacy as a rebellious state, that would eventually be crushed. Hyderbad was a victory that smashed the Mughal ability to bring the war to the Confederate doorstep. This was compounded by the death of Kam Rathor, the main Mughal commander since 1700.

After the fall of Hyderbad many felt that the war with the Mughal empire had reached it's climax. Tarabai and her supporters met with Mughal officials in Neutral Mysore. Where they attempted to discuss a peace settlement. Fighting did not stop however, Rawat continued to chase Silkander Panni north, engaging him at Tenali and Puri, eventually pushing the Mughals back to the Mahanadi River, where Silkander was killed.

In the West, Uppalapati retook the port of Vengurla, where Nizam Panni, Silkander's younger brother, was also killed. The death of the Panni brothers, convinced the Mughals that they could no longer sustain the war. On October 15th 1703, the Treaty of Mysore was signed, and put an end to what was called the "Hyderbad War". The treaty forced the Mughals to recognise the Confederacy as a nation, in exchange the territory captured by Rawat would be returned, but apart from that the border was the current frontline.

The treaty of Mysore was merely a ceasefire, and Akurdikar expected perhaps 2-4 months before the war began again. Rawat estimated 5 years. Either way, the treaty had forced the Empire to recognise their nation. Now Tarabai set about attempting to build a nation.


Authors Note: Hello all, thanks for reading and for the responses. It took me a couple of days to get all this up, I actually skipped out on 3 other battles that were fought but I just auto resolved them since I was running out of space in this box. Nonetheless so much happened in 1703. I just went for peace with the Mughals because it would be more realistic, but also I wanted some time to work on economy which had been mostly ignored while the lands were a battleground.

Thanks for reading,

[dezikeizer]

Great update as always. You especially do a good job at showing the actual politics that would take place in a confederacy such as theirs, rather than the ruler managing everything.+rep

[Majonga]

The Confederacy 1704

India 1704

Military Situation (January - March):

In the months after the Treaty of Mysore, the Confederacy military began to reorganise and regroup. Malwade and four Dakhili remained in Hyderbad while Akurdikar returned to Satara. A bond between the two maharajahs had formed and Malwade became a staunch supporter of Akurdikar. While Roy returned to Amadnagar, Uppalapati occupied Fort Pratapgad. Which had remained unoccupied since Akurdikar abandoned it in 1701. Rawat returned from the east without much celebration, he had missed out on much of the heavy fighting that characterised the previous year.

Without a war to fight the great generals settled in their respective holdings, eyeing each other with as much suspicion as they did the Mughals to the north. The army suffered as much from the web of loyalties as the government did. The confederacy was made up of dozens of Maharajahs, varying in strength and power. All supported a larger patron, for example many Maharajahs of the south supported Jayanthi Sayyapparaju, Maharajah of Arcot, who supplied and supported Malwade in Hyderbad, who in turn supported Akurdikar of Satara.

Each general took the chance to reform their armies, retraining and recruitment began in earnest, The Confederacy was a small divided nation, and remained constantly alert for invasion from the North. The Confederacy had badly needed rest and resupply, not one general could sum up more than 400 men.

Spoiler for Jayanthi Sayyapparaju: 

Sayyapparaju became Maharajah of Arcot after his half brother Balkrishna Indukuri was killed at Hyderbad. He the main campaigner for investment in the military, and during the Hyderbad War he was largely successful. he had not commanded but had been with Akurdikar and Malwade's forces during the Siege of Hyderbad, and had come away with valuable military knowledge. Following the Treaty of Mysore he served as the Army's representative on the Council.

Political Situation (April - July):

With the Hyderbad War over, Tarabai set up the Council, which was made up of the 6 most influential and powerful Maharajahs, including herself. The Council met in Bijapur and drew it's authority as the most powerful body in the confederacy. There were no elections, the council was based upon support most members had one of the confederacy's generals as a supporter, but also money and knowledge were important. The Maharajahs of Kolhapur, Bijapur, Vengurla, Arcot, Cochin and Trichinopoly formed the council, each had their own agenda, and responsibilities.

Fatehsinh Chaki, Maharajah of Cochin, an industrial town far to the south, reorganised the Tax and Tribute systems of the confederacy, streamlining it and making it fairer and more economical. Maharajahs still retained the right to tax their people, but a calculated percentage of this would be paid to the confederacy treasury. Maharajahs were expected to encourage growth in their respective territories. Throughout 1704, the confederacy grew significantly, shaking off the damage of the Hyderbad War.

Reform was at the heart of Tarabai's new government, Led by Babu Nathawat, Maharajah of Kolhapur, the council worked to modernise the confederacy and create a powerful and enlightened nation.

Spoiler for Members of the Council: 

Tarabai of Bijapur

Sayyapparaju of Arcot

Nathawat was one of the first members of the confederacy. He ruled from the town of Kolhapur, most famous for it's University. During the Hyderbad War, Kolhapur researched new weapons and technology for the army, most successful was the plug bayonet, based on a European design. Nathawat was a major campaigner for an enlightened state and worked to form the confederacy as a forerunner in technology and culture. With his influence he was easily one of the first members of the council, second only to Tarabai in power.

Fatehsinh Chaki was Maharajah of Cochin, one of the most powerful of the Southern Maharajas, Chaki was a n acute businessman and trader. His lands were quite industrialised for the confederacy and he was a skilled banker. Throughout the Hyderbad War no-one could match his output or his donations. His monetary influence and accountancy skills made his treasurer of the council.

Dhanush Solanki, Maharajah of Trichinopoly in the south, was a stern man. He was the main advocate of defence, supporting the creation of militias in the main cities and was also a master of spies. Many of his supporters still operated in the Mughal Empire, sending back detailed reports on the Empire's activities. During the Hyderbad War he had organised some of the troops that defended Arcot, and his network of spies around the county had served the confederacy well.

Finally Anindita Govardhan, Maharajah of Vengurla was the main advocater for a Navy. He was perhaps the least influential member of the council as Vengurla had been occupied by the Mughals for much of the war only in the final days was it recaptured for a second time. Govardhan represented many of the coastal Maharajah's who had suffered badly from Mughal piracy during the war.

Political Situation (August - December):

During this time, Govardhan rose to the fore. He managed to gain the recognition of the Ottoman Empire and secured trade rights with them. Worth of 3000 gold pieces a year this was a great asset to the confederacy. Govardhan petitioned the council for months about the creation of a Navy. During the Hyderbad War, the Mughal Navy had been totally unopposed and had captured ports like Vengurla, cutting off trade with Europe. Govardhan argued for the creation of a confederate Navy in order to prevent the same thing happening again.

The council However decided to put Govardhan's plans on hold, as Sayyapparaju was more convincing in arguing that the Army was in desperate need of funds to resupply and re-arm.

[Majonga]

The Confederacy 1705

Military Situation (January - April):

After almost a year spent patroling the lands. Rawat and his six tumans met with Uppalapati's forces at Fort Pratapgad. Where Rawat retook full command of his forces, just over 600 men. Rawat and Uppalapati still held the largest army in the confederacy but they lacked adequate supplies and little recruitment had been made in the last year. Tensions also sparked with Akurdikar, who claimed that the Fort was still part of his lands, and Rawat had no right to occupy it. As of yet however, Rawat's numbers meant that Akurdikar did not have the strength to press his claim.

The University at kolhapur presented the army with the new 12 pounder cannon, which pulled by a team of horses was far more manoeuvrable on the battlefield. To accompany the new cannon, came cannister shot, which Roy had experienced at the battle of Manmad. Roy himself was especially keen to acquire the new weapons.

Political Situation (April - September):

After over a year of arguing for it, Govardhan eventually managed to get support for the construction of a Navy. It was a monumental task, which involved the ports of Vengurla, Bombay and Calicut to construct ships. Overall, the confederacy ordered the construction of 3 Brigs and 3 Dhows, a military fleet and trade fleet. It was estimated it would take almost 2 years to finish. Govardhan knew that if the fleet was successful his power would grow to rival all others, Trade and security would rely on the fleet, especially considering the aspirations of the Europeans.

Military Situation (October - December):

By early October Rawat managed to secure almost 2000 gold pieces in order to reform his army. It would take time, but such a huge amount of money would greatly improve Rawat's position. As the largest army, Rawat was the unofficial head of the confederate army, despite Akurdikar's grumbling.

In the south at Arcot the first 12 pounders were being assembled to award each general with modern weaponry.

In Vengurla and Bombay the first brigs were constructed. Named after victories in the Hyderbad War, the Yadgir and Kolhapur set sail on their maiden voyages. Impressed by the display Tarabai and the Council agreed to fund 2 more Brigs to support their fledgling Navy. In the meantime, they were on the lookout for a sailor with enough experience to be named in command of the fleet.

[Majonga]

The Confederacy 1706

Political Situation (January - July):

With a Navy well in progress, a powerful land army and a growing economy the Confederacy was beginning to look beyond her borders. To the North Persia and the Ottomans were at war, Persian ships frequently cut off the gulf, denying the Confederacy access to the Ottoman ports. There were advocates amongst the confederacy that they should intervene and declare war on the Persians, who were also strong allies with the Mughals. Tarabai however supported a move to ally with the Ottomans, such a powerful ally would aid the small Confederacy. Openly declaring war on Persia, would be taking on too many foes at once, she cautioned.

While the confederacy began to think more internationally, their navy continued to grow. The Amadnagar joined the fleet as a new brig, while several Dhows were nearly complete. Govardhan estimated the fleet would be ready by mid 1707, perhaps sooner.

Military Situation (August - December):

New 12 pounder cannons reinforced the troops at Hyderbad, Malwade was impressed by the manoeuvrability and power of the 12 pounders. The new Cannons would greatly change the strategy of the confederate forces, who now had reliable artillery support.

By now the army had almost totally recovered from the Hyderbad War, and many were calling for a war of expansion. The lands of the crumbling Mughals to the north were rich and weak. The Narmada River Valley held many rich cities. Akurdikar and Roy had both come up with invasion plans, that involved crossing the Narmada. Rawat however suggest a naval born operation, striking the East Coast of the Mughals, with the intent to capture Calcutta.

Whatever the case, war was brewing once more in the Subcontinent, the Confederacy possessed an able but untried Navy, a strong economy and a large, experienced army headed by able and tried commanders. Hyderbad and Satara became rectruiting centres as Malwade and Akurdikar began to supplement their forces with new troops. In Bombay the fleet gathered, 2 more brigs where expected in early 1707. The later part of 1706 the Confederacy geared for war.

Author's Note: Sorry bugger happened this year really.

[dezikeizer]

Great update as always.

[Majonga]

Author's Note: Here is just a recap (sorta) of the first 6 turns, I may do this for every major war fought, but this is also to provide a little background for before 1700.

The Hyderbad War (1697 - 1703)

Key Battles of the Hyderbad War

September 1697:
- The town of Gulbarga is burned by the Hyderbad Garrison. Maharajah of Bijapur, Barhat Jalpanir convinces most of the nearby Maharajahs to raise forces to drive back Mughal invasion. The Confederacy is born.

12th December 1697:
- The battle of Gulbarga is fought, The victorious Jalpanir besieges Hyderbad.

February 1698:
- Mughal reinforcements force Jalpanir to break the seige. Battle of Solapur is fought. Jalpanir is killed in the battle. Rawat now commands. Tarabai becomes Rajah of Bijapur and leader of the confederacy.

June 1698:
- Satara joins the Confederacy and Akurdikar lays siege to Hyderbad.

November 1698:
- Akurdikar is forced to break seige due to lack of supplies.

July 1699:
- The Southern Maharajahs join the Confederacy. Indukuri, enamoured with Tarabai, marches north.

April 1700:
- Akurdikar returns to Satara. Mughals, seeing a chance Invade, Rawat defeats them at Yadgir. Indukuri besieges Hyderbad.

November 1700:
- Major Mughal invasion down the West coast prompts Indukuri to assault Hyderbad. The assualt fails upon his death.

August 1701:
- Rawat wins major victory at Kolhapur defeating the Mughal Invasion.

October 1701:
- Akurdikar takes the offensive, Roy captures Amadnagar after heavy fighting.

July 1702:
- Akurdikar meets with new general Malwade, their camp at Mabubnagar is attacked but the confederates are victorious. AKurdikar besieges Hyderbad for the 4th time.

February 1703:
- Silkarder Panni, invades the south but is driven off after a failed assault on Arcot. As he flees north Rawat gives chase.

May 1703:
- Naramada Rebbellion erupts, quickly and brutally quashed by Roy at Jalgoan

July 1703:
- "the bloody week", three battles are fought in rapid succession. Roy defeats Nizam Panni at Manmad on the 13th, the next day Uppalapati wins the battle of Pune, Akurdikar storms Hyderbad on the 16th. The Mughals are utterly vanquished.

August 1703:
- Uppalapati storms Vengurla defeating the last Mughal army in Confederate Territory.

September 1703:
- Rawat finally catches Silkander Panni at Tenali and later Puri, where Silkander is finally killed

October 1703:
- Confederates and Mughals meet in Mysore to discuss peace. War ends on 15th October 1703 with Treaty of Mysore.

[dardy]

You have a very interesting style that I really enjoy.

[Majonga]

The Confederacy 1707

Political Situation (January - March):

By January 1707, the Confederacy had enjoyed over 4 years of peace with the Mughal Empire. Relations were still poor and the international situation now included Persia and the Ottoman Empire. The Confederacy was stronger than it had ever been. It had a powerful economy bringing over 8000 gold coins a year, a population of almost 15 million. A fledgling Navy and a combined military force of almost 3000 men. A strong nation in the global scale.

Sayyapparaju was the main antagonist for war, supported by Akurdikar, the two argued that now was the time for a renewed war against the failing Mughal Empire. Rawat was against it, he wanted more troops and a stronger diplomatic situation. However the nation had stagnated, attempts to ally with the Ottomans had failed and growth was slowing. A war with the Mughals would stimulate growth, and a victory would bring the Confederacy recognition with the larger European powers. All they needed was Tarabai's support and the Confederacy would have the unity to fight a war. Tarabai consulted the young and ambitious general Roy. Roy supported the idea of going to war, but was not swept up in the euphoria of victory and councilled that the Confederacy would be engaging war with a stronger or at least equal opponent. In late February Tarabai gave her support to the war.

Then began the debate on where to fight. Rawat suggested fighting on the fringe of Mughal territory, Orar and the Circars onto Calcutta. Akurdikar and Roy preferred a more conventional war on the current front line. The rich Narmada Basin lay to the north of Confederacy included some of the territory that had rebelled in 1703. having been returned to the Mughals in the treaty of Mysore. The towns of Ujjain and Nagpur and the city of Ahmedabad formed the heartland of the Mughal Empire. The Council backed a plan for a two pronged strike into the Narmada Valley. Roy and Uppalapati were to combine and work their way up the coast supported by Admiral Tatya Dhekale, their key objective was Surat, the main Mughal garrison south of the Narmada River, and base for the Mughal Navy. Akurdikar and Malwade were to combine forces and assault Nagpur, seizing the upper part of the Narmada Valley. Rawat was to be in overall command, his army held in reserve. On paper it was a solid plan.

Military Situation (April - August):

On the 1st of April 1707, the Confederacy declared War on the Mughal Empire. Persia enacted on it's alliance treaty and declared War on the Confederacy by 8th of April, Mysore chose to remain Neutral. The War began well, Admiral Dhekale was able to trap the majority of the Mughal navy in their port of Surat, Uppalapati and Roy were quick on the uptake and forced marched to Surat reaching it on the evening of the 18th of April. The Confederacy had over 1000 men, the Mughals just under 800. The Confederacy had the chance to wipe out both the Mughal Navy and their main land army in a single day.

Spoiler for Battle of Surat, 19th April 1707: 

For once the weather was good and the Confederate forces deployed in the early morning sunshine with high spirits. Uppalapati formed on the right, Roy on the left. Both generals had served together in the Hyderbad war and were good friends trusting that the other would be successful in their plan. Both sides opened fire with artillery, Mughal 12 pounders vs Roy's outdated Cannons. Both armies advanced but The Mughals were first to occupy the town's outskirts. Roy's three Dakhili attacked and bitter fight began in the streets. In attempt to disrupt the enemy and take out their cannon, Roy's Tuman charged in. They met Mughals in square formation, a new tactical ploy by the Mughals. The cavalry took heavy losses and broke before the infantry could support. Used to seeing cavalry break through infantry ranks the confederates were astounded.

The Confederate Advance, seen from the Mughal position.

On the right Uppalapati's advance through open fields was met with cannon and cavalry troops. He sent two infantry Dakhili to flank the Mughals defending the town, then met the enemy cavalry head on with his elephants. he broke the Mughal forces and advanced rapidly with infantry support. The sheer line breaking power of elephants coupled with disciplined fire stormed the Mughal cannon positions. The fighting here was brutal but the enemy was driven back into the woods. Uppalapati was wounded, taking an arrow to the shoulder and was carried from the field.

The Mughal general died when Roy's troops stormed their HQ, as the Mughals in the town began to fall back, Uppalapati's troops came from behind, sandwiched between Confederates, the Mughals took heavy casualties before finally surrendering. The four hour battle was a major victory for the Confederates, some 200 men had been lost while the enemy casualties were three times that, mostly thanks to Uppalapati's impressive assault.

The Victory on the 19th was the high before the low. After unsuccessful surgery Uppalapati died of his wounds early in the morning of 20th of April. His death was a blow to both Roy and Rawat, who had regarded the stalwart general as a close friend. The victory was further soured by Dhekale's failure to stop the Mughal Navy from escaping Surat, but worse was yet to come.

Political Situation (May - June):

In the East Akurdikar and Malwade finally met in Nanded, over 100 miles from Nagpur, over 2 weeks had been wasted in extra preparation and confusion. Now as the army regrouped in Nanded, Akurdikar and Malwade discussed strategy. For almost a month after the war had begun the army did not move. Roy had already reached the Narmada River and Secured the crossings, Rawat was not far behind. Their delay cost the Confederacy dear. Qazi Suresh, commander of the Nagpur garrison made a forced march with his 800 men, bypassing Akurdikar and Malwade completely. By the 7th of May he was at the gates of Hyderbad. It took less than a week for the Mughals to capture the city.

The fall of Hyderbad in May 1707 was a catastrophe. The city which had had an entire war fought for it's control had fallen in just a week. Hyderbad was the key point in for the Confederacy. Many thought that the worse case scenario had occurred and the Mughals would press the Confederates south and succeed where they failed 4 years ago. Indeed many pressed Tarabai and Sayyapparaju to attempt a peace settlement with the Empire.

"If we give in now, we subject ourselves to slavery and ignominy. No, we must stay the course and bear the worst, the night is always darkest before the dawn"

- Sayyapparaju, following the fall of Hyderbad.

However, none could argue that the situation was not poor. Dhekale had now entirely lost the Mughal fleet and had resolved to stay harboured in Surat. Roy's advance was stalled on the Narmada, facing a Mughal force twice his size. Hyderbad was controlled by the Mughals and Akurdikar had still done nothing.

Military Situation (June - November):

In 1707, two views were held. 1. the Narmada could not be crossed, 2. Hyderbad was the strongest fortress in India. By 1708, those views would be shattered. 3 months after war was declared, Malwade and Akurdikar arrived outside Hyderbad. This was the 2nd time in the last decade they had sat in front of these walls, but this time was different. This time they had cannon. Akurdikar did not waste time. His army had barely an hour to rest from their 4 day forced march, before the assualt began.

Spoiler for The Storming of Hyderbad, June 2nd 1707: 

Suresh, the Mughal general had 750 men. Akurdikar and Malwade could summon 1500. It was the largest forces to ever clash over Hyderbad. A two hour Artillery barrage covered Akurdikar's slow advance towards the walls. The bombardment was catastrophic to the Mughals. They had, in traditional style, mined the walls, waiting for an escalade. Instead the cannon fire touched them off, blasting two massive wholes in the wall. In just two hours the walls of Hyderbad, which had held for 10 years were a ruin.

The whole army advanced, splitting into two assault forces, ready to storm the breaches. Shaken by the dramatic turn of fate, Suresh ordered a counter attack. He charged out and attacked Akurdikar's wing in the shadow of the wall, meanwhile Malwade moved unopposed through the breach on the right.

The cannons moved up and gave supporting fire to the battle, Akurdikar met Suresh head on with disciplined lines. Volleys hit the counter attack hard, but they were followed by swordsmen counter charges and the Bayonet. Grapeshot slaughtered a good portion of Malwades vanguard, but they were eventually overwhelmed. Despite desperate fighting Malwade stormed most of the fortress. The Mughal counter attack, turned into a desperate bid to escape, which turned into a full blown route. Before the Confederates even knew it, the fort was theirs.

Suresh and what was left of his army had surrendered by dark. Nearly 1000 men had died in the bloody battle, but the effect of the victory was solid. Hyderbad had been recaptured and the Mughal's eastern army annihilated.

When the Mughals had marched into Hyderbad the streets had been deserted. When Akurdikar marched through, his men still bloody and dirty from the battle, crowds cheered their arrival. Public order was higher than it had been during the inter war years. Akurdikar was hailed as the saviour of the Confederacy, recapturing Hyderbad in just a single day.

Despite the celebrations however, the fact remained that no real advantage had come from the victory. Worse still Akurdikar made no attempt to expand on his victory. He remained in Hyderbad, resting and reorganising. Rawat lay encamped just a days ride from Nagpur. So far, the war was a stalemate. Both sides having gained little or no ground on the back of several thousand dead. Frustrated with his colleagues lacklustre, Roy took a huge strategic risk. He assaulted across the Narmada. With Just 800 men he advanced against Ahmedabad, the key city north of the Narmada. Rawat described it as the "Hyderbad of the North". A garrison of a estimated 900 men defended Amedabad, but that was not all. A further 3-400 men were spread across the land, still mobilising, Amedabad could also call on the 500 men stationed in Ujjain. In all somewhere between 1800-2000 men stood against Roy's invasion.

Roy did have several things on his side. He was a skilled and proven general, underestimated by his opponents. He had a well trained and experienced army totally loyal to him. Before his death Uppalapati had ordered his followers to follow Roy (Interestingly not Rawat) Insisting he was the most worthy. Fanatically loyal to their dying lord, 450 men formerly loyal to Uppalapati and Rawat marched north under the command of Roy, determined to fulfill their beloved commanders final wish.

Spoiler for Battle of Ahmedabad, 4th November 1707: 

The Mughals were so surprised by Roy's audacity that they were slow to react. Amin Shafi remained in Ahmedabad with 1000 men, believing Roy would be suicidal to attack the Mughals at their strongest point. Amedabad, perhaps did not deserve the name of "Hyderbad of the North", although of similar size it had no walls or defensive forts. Also Roy knew a major destructive victory was needed if his gambit was to succeed. Indeed, he could not afford not to attack at Ahmedabad on the 4th, in case he end up surrounded by another 1000 troops. So, on the 4th of November, the 8th Month of the war, the battle of Ahmedabad was fought.

Amin Shafi was caught by surprise, astounded that Roy would even attack. Especially against his position which was a high ridge with the city on his left. Roy tricked him by using the hills to screen his movements, arriving on the other side of the city, it now became a race to capture the city. In the street to street fighting Roy predicted he could funnel the Mughals, defeating their numbers with his superior quality troops. The confederates were successful in capturing most of the city before the Mughals. A solid attack now began to drive the Mughals out of the city.

On the cities outskirts, Roy set a trap. He remained at the artillery position, making sure his banners where very visible. Shafi, saw what he percieved as the Confederate general and artillery unprotected. He immediately ordered 3 dakhili, a significant portion of his force, to attack the Confederate position. If Roy was killed the battle was won. As the overconfident Mughals charged through grapeshot they were met with a surprise. Roy had hidden 2 dakhili of swordsman in a lee in the hill, invisible from Shafi's position. The swordsmen and elephants met the Mughals head on while cavalry smashed in from behind. It was a massacre.

In the city itself, the Mughals were in full retreat, their main HQ fell and some resistance in the southern quarter was all that remained. Shafi now saw the grand scale of his problem, his cannons were facing south in their dug in positions, and he was unable to turn them to face an attack from the west. His main assault had been annihilated and the city was lost. He could have saved his army if he had retreated, but instead all organisation broke down. The Confederates sweeped out of the city, overrunning his prepared defences from their undefended flanks

On the far right flank of the Mughal army, Shafi rallied his reserves and reformed. Roy had joined up with his forward units and ordered a full advance. Shafi's reserves, all that he had left to rely on where armed townsfolk, they were no match in line battle for Roy's experienced musketeers. As the Mughals fell back to their final position, Shafi was killed. The position fell soon after. At 7pm, after nearly 10 hours of battle. The Confederates held the field and the city. Over 1500 men were killed wounded or missing from both sides following the battle. Roy had some-how managed to escape unscathed, despite being in the thick of the fighting.

Political Situation (December):

Ahmedabad was a major victor, despite being outnumbered and outgunned, Roy had outmanoeuvred and out-generalled Shafi, and crushed the main Mughal position on the Narmada border. However, the victory was overlooked as Pyrric by the council and Roy's colleagues. Akurdikar expected Roy to fall back across the river, in less than a month. Th Council viewed the year as a failure. Nagpur had not been captured, The Mughal Navy was still at large, Hyderbad and Ahmedabad would need significant rebuilding and the army had lost a third of it's numbers. The Confederacy could not turn back. In December 1707, 1708 looked bleak.


Author's Note: I accidentally deleted the screenshot of the prebattle stuff for Ahmedabad, which you may have noticed. I knew something like that was going to happen at some point.

[dezikeizer]

Great update and descriptions of the battles, though I think you had some periods that should have been commas.

[Majonga]

Great update and descriptions of the battles, though I think you had some periods that should have been commas.

yes, after reading it the next day I can't say I am particularly happy with the grammar and overall writing of the last post. Uni is getting pretty hectic now, I have 2 assignments due for next week so I'm unlikely to update in the next few days, though I may procrastinate.

[Majonga]

Author's Note: Sorry no pictures for this year, didn't actually fight any battles. However lots of political manoeuvres instead. I know I haven't posted in over a month, but with essays and exams etc. Plus being badly addicted to dragon age, this game was put on hold. Now however I have nothing to do all week so I figure it's time to press on.

The Confederacy 1708

Military Situation (January - March):

The Blood-letting of 1703, the final climax of the Hyderabad War, was still fresh in the minds of many when the Narmada War began in 1707. 1707 proved to be even bloodier the brutal battles of Surat and Hyderbad were overshadowed by the huge losses as Ahmedabad. Vyankoji Roy was criticised for the losses sustained in the battle, though none could refute the brilliance of his leadership. Whereas the Confederacy thought the battle was a major success, the Mughals thought it decisive. Sultan Aurangzeb's court nearly collapsed, the Sultan himself abandoning his court in Akbarabad and fleeing North into Punjab. There was a real fear that the Confederates would push North into Hindustan.

In the aftermath of Amhedabad command of the Mughal armies fell to Firuz Suresh, son of Qazi Suresh, who was killed at Hyderbad the previous year. Firuz produced a fresh plan in January and presented it to the Sultan. The defensive plan highlighted the Narmada River as a front-line. Firuz, pulled back the troops around Nagpur, drawing them over the river for a combined strike on Roy's stranded forces. As the Mughals withdrew across the river, Rawat's forces marched unopposed into Nagpur. The Mughal court was displeased with the loss of the city, but Firuz made assurances that Amhedabad would fall in return.

on the 14th of March 1708, Firuz Suresh's forces were in position. Some 300 men laid siege to Amhedabad, while almost 500 more lay in reserve around Ujjain. The Situation looked grim for Roy, his forces were still battered from the previous year's campaign and were unable to mount an assault out of the city against the Mughals. Roy was forced to wait out the siege, with either the hope of reinforcement or perhaps outlasting the besiegers. Rawat's forces were too small to press on from Nagpur, and Akurdikar and Malwade were hundreds of miles to the south, regrouping in Hyderbad. With Roy unable to break out and Suresh unable to break in a stalemate settled across the Valley.

Political Situation (April):

It was around this time that Babu Nathawat a major member of the Confederacy Cabinet, made a trip to Europe, spending some months in Britain and the Netherlands. He was shocked to discover that in Europe, the Confederacy of Maharajah's had been corrupted to the Maharatha Confederacy. Nathawat discovered the Europeans found it difficult to understand the tenuous politics of the Confederacy and stormed out of meeting in Paris when the French ambassador made the mistake of naming Tarabai as Queen of the confederacy. Nathawat furiously stated that Tarabai and he were equals in the confederacy. Unfortunately the idea of no real leader sounded preposterous to the Europeans, and he found that he was forced to accept their mistakes in order to keep the lucrative trade flowing.

Nathawat also discovered the European viewpoint on the current war with the Mughals. In Europe the distinction between the Hyderbad and Narmada war was moot, as far as the Europeans were concerned they were two parts of the same war! Europeans also seemed to be ignorant of the vast distances over which these wars were fought. The Europeans also saw the Confederacy's war with the Mughals alongside the Persian Ottoman war, which had violently kick started in late 1707 with a number of vicious battles around the border.

Military Situation (May - July):

Although the fighting round the Narmada had ground to a standstill, The war between the Persians and Ottomans had gone on. On the 8th of May, the Ottoman army won a decisive victory at Qom massacring the Persian army and within a week had overrun Eshafan and seized control of most of Persia. The Persians fell back to their territories in Afghanistan, Azerbaijan and Baluchistan. By virtue of the still strong Persian Navy the port of Bandar Abbas remained in Persian hands.

The Persian Fleet was still strong and had successfully blockaded the Ottoman's Mesopotamian fleet in Basra, giving the Persians full control of the Gulf. The Confederate fleet, still under the command of Tatya Dhekale, had finally got word of the whereabouts of the Mughal fleet. The Mughals had sailed 300 miles south to the straights of Madagascar, where they were plundering the rich shipping from Europe. Rather than chase them halfway across the world. Dhekale instead decided to involve himself in The Gulf, sailing North into the Persian Gulf and blockading the Persians at Bandar Abbas. Dhekale's move however failed to break the deadlock in the Gulf. Dhekale received more criticism as his forces had ignored the Mughal threat to trade and had gallivanted off to the gulf where they now sat idle waiting for a break in the deadlock.

Political Situation (August - September):

With the war effectively ground to a halt both at sea and on land. Nathawat made a trip to the Ottoman Empire where he met with Sultan Mustafa the 2nd, there Nathawat was able to show that the Confederate and Ottomans were on the same side, fighting the Mughal/Persian alliance. Dhekale's move against the Persians was smiled upon by the Ottomans, and Nathawat was able to arrange an Alliance between the two nations.

However as the war dragged on, and the stalemate continued, the antiwar forces grew in strength. The clamour among the Maharajah's to make peace with the Mughals grew. Tarabai and her allies were hard pressed to keep control. Akurdikar and Malwade came under pressure to move and press the attack. If Roy was defeated and Ahmedabad fell, it was doubtful the confederacy would be able to continue the fight with the Mughals.

Military Situation (October - December):

In Mid October the Ottomans pressed forward along the North of Persia, into Afganistan. Kabul fell on the 24th of October the afgan tribes defeated by the Ottomans. Now Ottoman troops lay on the border with the Mughals, and had a direct path into India. Many Maharajah's were worried that they would press on, including Akurdikar. He now felt he was forced to move. Akurdikar and Malwade marched North, reaching Nagpur on the 6th of November. The three generals Akurdikar, Rawat and Malwade began discussing their Strategy.

Rawat pressed for an assault into Orissa, and press to the Bengal shore. Malwade opposed this, stating they could not abandon Roy. Akurdikar wanted to press the opposite direction, towards Persia and cut off the Ottomans from pushing further into India. Overall the three generals could bring together some 1500 troops. They would split the forces into three, Malwade and Akurdikar pressing west towards Ahmedabad and Persia, while Rawat pressed east in and effort to lengthen the front against the Mughals. As the year came to a close Roy's position was becoming more and more strenuous. The other three generals divided their forces and began their march in early December. The 2nd phase of the Narmada War had begun.

[dezikeizer]

Extremely well done update, and you did much better on the punctuation this time. I'll be waiting for the next one.