ARMS AND ARMOURS

Innovative military techniques and arms were an integral part of the success of the Marathas and Scindias. Early Maratha warfare of the 17th century employed a ferocious and effective form of guerrilla warfare, allowing them to defeat a larger army such as those of the Mughals. The Scindias used similar practices to their fellow Marathas, rising to power under their leader Ranoji Scindia in the mid-18th century. With the expansion of their territories and influence, the Scindias accordingly adapted and refined their military approach. Mahadji Scindia employed the assistance of General Benoit de Boigne who combined European techniques and arms with the existing Maratha strategies and equipment to create an undeniable force. Mahadji found himself in control of most of Northern India by the end of 1791. As the Scindias became established as a royal family, armoury came to take on ceremonial importance as well as defensive one, as can be seen in the model of the royal procession in the next room. At the same time, they continued to develop their history, from an early Maratha Bagh nakh (metal ‘tiger claw’) and draggers used in guerrilla warfare, to the most up-to-date shot guide from WWII.