Shivaji Maharaj's Chauth and Sardeshmukhi: The Taxes That Built Swarajya

In this episode, Lucas and Luna dive into the financial engine of Shivaji's empire: the chauth (25% levy) and sardeshmukhi (10% additional tax). They explore how these taxes funded forts, armies, and a navy, while also serving as diplomatic tools. The discussion covers the kaulnama (safe-conduct passes), collection methods via local deshmukhs, and the Mughal response. Contrasted with contemporary tax farming, Shivaji's system was relatively disciplined, with fixed rates and receipts. The episode also touches on the moral dilemma of taxing peasants and the long-term economic legacy of these policies. #ShivajiMaharaj #Chauth #Sardeshmukhi #MarathaEmpire #HindaviSwarajya #Taxation #MughalEmpire #Aurangzeb #Deccan #AshtaPradhan #MoropantPeshwa #Kaulnama #Deshmukh #MarathaEconomy #17thCentury #IndianHistory #History #FexingoHistory Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo