Profile
Settings
Refer your friends
Sign out
The Battle of Bhima Koregaon was a major confrontation between the British East India Company and the Maratha Empire in 1818. The battle was fought near the village of Koregaon, about 16 km northeast of Pune. The outnumbered British forces, comprising about 1,000 men, held off a larger Maratha force until reinforcements arrived. The British victory was a turning point in the Anglo-Maratha War, until 1819. The battle was commemorated by constructing a memorial at Koregaon, which is now an important site of pilgrimage for Dalits that holds major historical importance to Dalits.
Holds major historical importance to Dalits
Every year on 1 January, thousands of people visit the memorial to pay homage to the soldiers who fought in the battle. The battle has taken on a new significance in recent years, with Dalits and other groups using it to symbolise resistance against caste oppression. In 2018, large-scale protests erupted across India after right-wing groups tried to stop people from visiting the Koregaon memorial. The protests turned violent in some places, leading to the death of one person and widespread property damage. The battle of Bhima Koregaon continues to be a controversial and polarising issue in India today.
The victory was a turning point in the Anglo-Maratha War.
The Battle of Bhima Koregaon was a major confrontation between the British East India Company and the Maratha Empire in 1818. The battle was fought near the village of Koregaon, about 16 km northeast of Pune. The outnumbered British forces, comprising about 1,000 men, held off a larger Maratha force until reinforcements arrived. The British victory was a turning point in the Anglo-Maratha War until 1819.
The construction of a memorial commemorated the battle
The battle was commemorated by constructing a memorial at Koregaon, which is now an important pilgrimage site for Dalits and other oppressed communities in India. Every year on 1 January, thousands of people visit the memorial to pay homage to the soldiers who fought in the battle.
The Battle of Bhima Koregaon continues to be a controversial and polarising issue in India today
Today, the battle of Bhima Koregaon continues to be a controversial and polarising issue in India. On the one hand, Dalits and other marginalised groups see it as a symbol of resistance against caste oppression. On the other hand, right-wing groups view it as an anti-national event that glorifies British colonial rule. With the country sharply divided on the issue, it is clear that the battle of Bhima Koregaon still has the power to stir up strong emotions and spark heated debates.
Historians’ Narration on the Battle of Bhima Koregaon
Some historians believe that the conflict took place against the tyranny of foreign invasion, which is not incorrect. In contrast, others feel it was a battle for Mahar’s self-respect since when they offered their services to Peshwa, they were rejected with the label “untouchables.” The Peshwa of Ancient India implemented the Varna System, similar to what ancient India did through the Varna System. While entering the city, Mahars were required to tie a broom to their waist so that their “polluted and filthy” footprints from the broom followed behind them. They had to hang a vessel in their necks to spit into it since their spit would otherwise be contaminated. They couldn’t even consider pulling water from wells or puddles.
Conclusion
As a result of the British’s remembrance of the Battle, they constructed a square pillar in memory of the martyr soldiers, commonly known as the “Koregaon Pillar.” It symbolises the Mahar Regiment’s bravery. In 1851, the British presented medals to soldiers to remember the Battle of Bhima Koregaon. The Peshwa System was brought to an end, allowing the British to gain control over India. This was the complete guide on what holds major historical importance to Dalits, historical importance to Dalits, and Historians’ Narration on the Battle of Bhima Koregaon.
