Understanding Shivaji Maharaj's Cavalry

Shivaji Maharaj was known for his efficient military organization, particularly his cavalry, which played a crucial role in his campaigns. The cavalry was primarily divided into two main types based on recruitment and payment methods.

Types of Cavalry in Shivaji's Army

Let's look at the terms provided in the options and understand their roles in Shivaji Maharaj's military setup:

• Bargir: These were cavalry soldiers who were provided with horses and equipment directly by the state. They were paid a regular salary and were considered the core, well-disciplined segment of the cavalry. The state's control over their horses and gear ensured their loyalty and readiness. This formed the main body of the royal cavalry.
• Silahdar: These were cavalry soldiers who owned their own horses and equipment. They were not paid a regular salary but were compensated based on their service and the condition of their horses. While valuable, their self-reliance meant they were slightly less integrated into the state's direct command structure compared to the Bargirs.
• Risala: This term generally refers to a unit or troop of cavalry, often commanded by a Risaldar. It's a unit designation rather than a type of soldier based on equipment ownership.
• Dabeer: This term does not refer to a military rank or cavalry type. In historical contexts, 'Dabeer' often referred to a diplomatic or secretarial role, sometimes associated with foreign affairs or correspondence in medieval Indian states, including the Maratha administration under Shivaji Maharaj.

Identifying the Royal Cavalry

The question asks specifically about the 'royal cavalry' of Shivaji Maharaj. This typically refers to the standing army segment where the state provided the resources (horses, equipment) and paid a fixed salary, ensuring complete control and immediate availability. Based on the definitions:

• Bargirs were directly equipped and paid by the state.
• Silahdars equipped themselves and were paid differently.
• Risala is a cavalry unit.
• Dabeer is a civilian/diplomatic official.

Therefore, the Bargirs constituted the royal cavalry of Shivaji Maharaj, funded and maintained by the state.