Panipat 2019

In the mid-18th century, particularly in 1758, the Maratha Empire was at its zenith, having grasped control over nearly all of India—save for the Nizam of Hyderabad in the southeast. The Maratha forces, commanded by Sadashiv Rao Bhau, lay siege to the Nizam’s fort in Udgiri, where the valiant defender, Ibrahim Khan Gardi portrayed by Nawab Shah, stands ready to deter them. Through a combination of clever tactics and remarkable bravery, Sadashiv manages to outsmart Ibrahim and secures the fort, bringing it under Maratha rule. Instead of vanquishing his opponent, Sadashiv opts for a strategic alliance, welcoming Ibrahim into the Maratha ranks as a commander, alongside his second-in-command, Shamsher Bahadur.

Upon returning to Pune, Sadashiv is met with the approval of many, yet he faces personal dilemmas concerning his romantic relationship with Parvati Bai, whom he hesitates to marry. Meanwhile, Gopika Bai, played by Padmini Kolhapure and the wife of the Peshwa, expresses her discontent regarding Sadashiv’s decision to appoint a Muslim commander without the Peshwa’s consent, voicing her concerns about the potential threats to the Peshwa’s power.

After succumbing to the pressure from friends, Sadashiv marries Parvati. Gopika’s influence leads the Peshwa to strip Sadashiv of his military command, relegating him to manage finances. In his new role, Sadashiv uncovers that Najib-Ud-Daula, portrayed by Mantra, is the principal tax evader. He instigates an edict for Mughal Emperor Alamgir, forcing regional kings to contribute 25% of their earnings to the Marathas as protection from adversaries, consequently undermining Najib’s influence.

Desperate to reclaim his standing, Najib seeks the aid of Afghan King Ahmad Shah Abdali, who unfolds plans to invade India to strengthen his dwindling empire against Persian threats. The situation escalates as the Mughals, misled into believing they remain under Maratha protection, face the looming threat of Abdali’s advancing forces.

As conflict brews, the Peshwa and Sadashiv decide to dispatch troops to safeguard Delhi. However, they soon realize their forces are outnumbered. In a bold move, Sadashiv asserts that he can rally additional allies along their route, including Malhar Rao Holkar and Shuja-Ud-Daula. Dramatically, opponents unfold, with Abdali’s coalition growing as Najib entices Shuja to align with him against the Maratha cause.

Ultimately, the Maratha forces face critical hardships as they attempt to cross the raging Yamuna River, which hinders their logistical support. In a show of determination, Parvati approaches Sakina Begum for aid, embarking on a mission to secure provisions for their advance. The Maratha troops manage to reach Delhi just ahead of Abdali, capturing it with the assistance of emerging allies.

However, tensions remain high. Sadashiv seeks to position a Mughal ruler under the Peshwa’s influence to maintain control over Delhi, leading to strategic negotiations with local leaders. Unforeseen challenges arise as Abdali’s army prepares for battle. As both armies brace for the clash on 14th January 1761, Sadashiv orchestrates a tactical layout, but the battle spirals into turmoil when Abdali strikes with alarming ferocity, resulting in Sadashiv’s devastating loss of Vishwas Rao, further shattering his morale.

In a tragic turn, betrayal unfolds as an Indian king withdraws support in the heat of battle, leaving Sadashiv vulnerable against the relentless Afghan forces. He fights valiantly but ultimately succumbs. Despite the loss, Abdali offers respect toward Sadashiv’s bravery and valor, acknowledging the strength and courage of the Maratha army in his letters back to the Peshwa. The legacy of this conflict would resonate through time, marking a significant chapter in Indian history.