Murarbaji
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Murarbaji is remembered for his defence of Purandhar fort against Dilyer Khan (Mughal general who was sent along with Mirza Raje Jai Singh).
[edit] History
The battle over Purandhar was psychologically a very important battle for both sides. It was essential for the Marathas to hold off the Mughals for as long as possible over Purandhar, thus demonstrating the difficulty in conquering the mountainous Deccan kingdom. It was equally imperative for the Mughals to conquer Purandhar as swiftly as possible to demonstrate the futility of resistance before the might of the Mughal empire.
In the end superior European cannons fielded by the Mughals, under the leadership of Mannucci (a European mercenary), blasted away the walls of Purandhar. In spite of the crumbling defences Murarbaji and the troops stationed on the fort kept up a dogged defense. When the Mughal breached the outer walls, Murarbaji, though outnumbered, led a counter attack. In the vicious fighting, wherein no quarter was given nor asked for, Murarbaji showed incredible skills as a swordsman and an inspiring leader.
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 driven 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.
The battle of Purander showed to the Marathas the difficulty in facing the overwhelming force led 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 annihilation 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 campaign to conquer Marathas.
