Understanding Sardeshmukhi in the Maratha Regime

The question asks about the nature of 'Sardeshmukhi' during the Maratha regime. This term is associated with the administrative and revenue systems established by the Marathas, particularly under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and his successors. Let's analyze the given options to determine the correct meaning of Sardeshmukhi.

During the Maratha rule, several taxes and claims were imposed on territories, which formed a significant part of their revenue and political control strategy. Sardeshmukhi was one such impost.

Analyzing the Options for Sardeshmukhi

• Option 1: Designation equivalent to Peshwa

  This option suggests Sardeshmukhi was an administrative post similar to the Peshwa. The Peshwa was the Prime Minister and a high-ranking official in the Maratha administration. However, Sardeshmukhi was not a designation or an office equivalent to Peshwa. It was related to revenue collection.

• Option 2: A coin during the Maratha regime

  This option proposes that Sardeshmukhi was a type of currency used by the Marathas. While the Marathas did have their own currency systems, Sardeshmukhi was not a name for a coin. It was a form of levy.

• Option 3: Tax levied on revenue

  This option identifies Sardeshmukhi as a tax related to revenue. Historical records indicate that Sardeshmukhi was indeed a surcharge of 10% claimed by the Maratha ruler (as the Sardeshmukh or chief headman) on the revenue of areas, often outside the core Maratha territory, asserting a hereditary right or claim to superiority.

• Option 4: Name given to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

  This option suggests Sardeshmukhi was a name or title for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Shivaji Maharaj held titles like Chhatrapati, but Sardeshmukhi was not one of them. It was a revenue term.

Sardeshmukhi Explained

Sardeshmukhi was a tax or rather a claim for 10% of the total revenue of a territory. The Maratha ruler claimed this amount in his capacity as the hereditary Sardeshmukh of the region. This claim was made even on territories that were not directly administered by the Marathas, asserting their right to a share of the revenue based on historical or hereditary grounds. It was distinct from Chauth, which was a 1/4th share demanded as protection money or tribute.

Based on this understanding, option 3 accurately describes Sardeshmukhi as a tax levied on revenue.

Revision Table: Maratha Administration and Revenue Terms

Additional Information on Maratha Revenue System

The Maratha revenue system evolved over time. Shivaji Maharaj introduced reforms aimed at reducing the power of intermediaries and collecting revenue more directly. The system included taxes on land (like the standard land revenue), customs, and other imposts. Chauth and Sardeshmukhi were unique demands often levied on territories outside the direct Maratha Swarajya (kingdom), serving both as a source of income and a tool to assert Maratha power and influence over neighbouring regions.

• Sardeshmukhi was claimed based on the assertion of being the chief headman (Sardeshmukh) over a wider area.
• It was distinct from the regular land revenue collection within the Maratha controlled areas.
• These claims were often backed by military force, making them significant instruments of Maratha expansion and foreign policy.