The capture of Gawilghur ended the campaign against Raghoji II Bhonsle and secured British dominance in central India during the Second Anglo-Maratha War.
Key Facts
- Date
- 15 December 1803
- Garrison size
- 3000 troops
- British commander
- Sir Arthur Wellesley
- Conflict
- Second Anglo-Maratha War
- Opposing ruler
- Raghoji II Bhonsle, Rajah of Berar
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
The Second Anglo-Maratha War placed British East India Company forces in conflict with several Maratha chiefs, including Raghoji II Bhonsle of Berar. Bhonsle's resistance required the Company to neutralize his strongholds, culminating in a campaign toward the formidable hill fortress of Gawilghur in western India.
On 15 December 1803, Sir Arthur Wellesley led British East India Company forces in an assault on Gawilghur. The fortress was defended by a garrison of approximately 3,000 men under Beni Singh Rajput, assisted by Manoo Bapu and Killedar Rana Shivsingh. British forces captured the fortification, overcoming its commanding defensive position.
The fall of Gawilghur constituted the decisive blow against Raghoji II Bhonsle's military power, effectively ending his capacity to resist the British. This victory consolidated Company control over the Berar region and marked the culmination of the campaign against Bhonsle in the Second Anglo-Maratha War.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
Sir Arthur Wellesley.
Side B
1 belligerent
Beni Singh Rajput, Manoo Bapu, Rana Shivsingh Rajput.