Tides Of Triumph

Tides of Triumph: The Maratha Navy Saga unveils India’s rich yet often overlooked maritime heritage, tracing the strategic importance of the naval power of the Maratha empire. Through ten vivid essays, the volume seeks to bring out the genius of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj who understood the need to exert his control over the seas even when confronted with numerous competing powers on land. The volume then traces the formation and growth of the Maratha Navy as it navigates the maritime challenges to establish its supremacy over various competitors through indigenization, consolidation, use of maritime geography, infrastructure development and adroit diplomacy. With a spotlight on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s visionary establishment of the Maratha Navy, the book explores the shipbuilding ingenuity, tactics, and valorous defences of the Maratha fleet against European and regional adversaries. The title ‘Tides of Triumph’ is rich in symbolism which also alludes to the rise, domination and eventual ebb of the Maratha Naval power. As we celebrate 350 years since Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s coronation, Tides of Triumph honours India’s enduring maritime legacy that the Indian Navy carries forward today.