Murarbaji

Murarbaji is remembered for his heroic defence of Fort Purander against Dilyer Khan ( Mughal general who was sent along with Mirza Raje Jai Singh).

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The battle over Purander was pschyologically a very important battle for both sides. It was essential for the Marathas to hold off the Mughals for as long as possible over Purander , thus demonstrating the difficulty in conquering the mountainous deccan kingdom . It was equally imperative for the Mughals to conquer Purander as swiftly as possible to demonstrate the futility of resistance before the might of the Mughal empire.

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In the end superior european cannons fielded by the Mughals , under the leadership of Mannucci ( a european mercenary), blasted away the walls of Purander. Inspite of the crumbling defences Murarbaji and the troops stationed on the fort kept up a dogged defense. When the Mughal breached the outer walls, Murabaji though outnumbered lead a counter attack . In the vicious fighting ,where in no quarter given nor asked for , Murabaji showed incredible skills as an swordsman and an inspiring leader.

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Dilyer Khan , impressed with the bravery of Murarbaji , offered him a truce and employment in the Mughal forces with handsome salary. Murarbaji , like his compatriots who were fired by the dream of Hindavi Swaraj , turned down the offer and was killed. The remaining Marathas retreated inside the inner walls ( baalekilla) of the fort , refusing to surrender and willing to die to the last man.

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The battle of Purander showed to the Marathas the difficulty in facing the overwhelming force lead by Mirza Raje , and to the Mughal the indomitable spirit and tenacity of the Marathas. Shivaji agreed to surrender to Mirza Raje rather than risk annhilation of his people , and the Mughal agreed to leave some of the forts and surrounding lands in the control of Shivaji than face a protracted and expensive campagin to conquer Marathas.

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