Chauth and Sardeshmukhi were key revenue measures introduced by Chhatrapati Shivaji in the Deccan during the 17th century. These taxes replaced plunder-based revenue and helped strengthen Maratha administration and military expansion.
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- Chauth was a tax equal to one-fourth of total revenue collected from territories.
- Sardeshmukhi was an additional levy of one-tenth of total revenue.
- Both taxes were imposed mainly in Mughal-controlled Deccan regions.
- The system replaced earlier plunder methods like Mulkgiri for stable income generation.
- Shivaji introduced these taxes to create a regular and reliable revenue base.
- Funds collected helped maintain armies and expand Maratha political influence.
- Sardeshmukhi was claimed as a hereditary right by Shivaji’s family in Maharashtra.
- Bijapur rulers granted Shivaji rights to collect these taxes during political negotiations.
- The system created dual revenue administration in many regions.
- It had significant economic and political impact on Mughal territories in the Deccan.




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