The Battle of Bhima Koregaon was fought on January 1, 1818, near Koregaon village in Maharashtra during the Third Anglo-Maratha War. It marked a key moment in the decline of Maratha power and the rise of British dominance, while later gaining social significance as a symbol of resistance and Dalit pride.

Bullets

• The battle took place between the British East India Company forces and the Peshwa-led Maratha Empire near Koregaon in Maharashtra.
• It was part of the Third Anglo-Maratha War, which aimed at consolidating British control over Indian territories.
• Peshwa Baji Rao II attempted to regain control of Pune, leading to confrontation with British forces.
• The British troops were led by Captain Francis Staunton, consisting of diverse regiments including Mahar soldiers.
• The Mahar community’s role in the battle later became a symbol of resistance against caste-based discrimination.
• The British victory weakened Maratha power significantly and accelerated the expansion of British rule in India.
• The battle is seen as a clash between colonial expansion and regional sovereignty aspirations.
• A victory pillar was later erected at Koregaon to commemorate the soldiers who fought in the battle.
• Over time, the event gained importance as a symbol of Dalit pride and is observed annually as a remembrance day.
• The aftermath contributed to the eventual defeat of the Peshwa rule and British dominance over large parts of India.