The Thanjavur Maratha Kingdom refers to a historical region and dynasty that existed from the 17th to the 19th centuries in southern India. Also known as the Thanjavur Maratha Principality or the Bhonsle dynasty of Thanjavur, it was a Maratha princely state that emerged during the decline of the Vijayanagara Empire.
The kingdom was primarily located in the present-day district of Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu, India. It was established by Venkoji, a half-brother of the famous Maratha warrior king Shivaji, who became the first ruler of the region in 1676. The Thanjavur Marathas were supporters of the Bhonsle dynasty and were known for their patronage of art, culture, and music.
Under the reign of various subsequent kings, the Thanjavur Marathas expanded their territories and achieved substantial economic and cultural growth. The kingdom became renowned for its significant contributions to art, literature, and classical music, particularly the patronage of Carnatic music.
The Thanjavur Maratha Kingdom reached its peak during the late 18th century under the rule of Serfoji II, who was a reputed scholar and art enthusiast. However, with the advent of British colonization in India, the kingdom gradually lost its sovereignty and became a vassal state of the British East India Company.
The Thanjavur Maratha Kingdom's legacy is still evident today in the rich cultural traditions of Thanjavur, with its temples, palaces, and historical artifacts. It serves as a significant chapter in South Indian history, representing the exchange of Maratha and Dravidian influences in the region.
