The samadhi of Maharani Tarabai, one of the most influential leaders of the Maratha Empire, located at Mahuli in Satara district in Maharashtra, is currently in a neglected and deteriorating condition. Historians and locals have expressed concern over the lack of proper maintenance of the site, which holds significant historical importance.

Maharani Tarabai was born in 1675 as the daughter of Hambirrao Mohite, the commander-in-chief of the Maratha army.

She was trained in warfare, administration, and statecraft from an early age. She was married to Chhatrapati Rajaram, the younger son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

After Rajaram’s death in 1700, Tarabai declared her minor son, Shivaji II, as the ruler and assumed the role of regent.\

At the time, the Maratha Empire was under severe pressure from the Mughal forces led by Emperor Aurangzeb.

Despite limited resources and continuous military campaigns by the Mughals, Tarabai organised resistance and directed Maratha forces across large parts of western and central India.

During her regency from 1700 to 1708, she supervised military operations and encouraged her commanders to conduct raids in Mughal-controlled regions, including Malwa.

Her leadership helped sustain the Maratha administration and military structure during a period when the empire faced the risk of collapse.

Following Aurangzeb’s death in 1707, political divisions emerged within the Maratha leadership. Shahu I, who had been released from Mughal captivity, challenged Tarabai’s authority. After a period of conflict, Shahu emerged as the dominant ruler, while Tarabai later established a separate centre of power in Kolhapur before gradually withdrawing from active politics.

Maharani Tarabai died on December 9, 1761 in Satara. Historians regard her as one of the key figures responsible for preserving Maratha power during its most difficult phase.

Her role as a military organiser and administrator is considered central to the survival of the empire in the early 18th century.

Despite her historical importance, her samadhi at Mahuli has received limited attention over the years. Parts of the structure show signs of damage, and basic facilities for visitors are inadequate.

Heritage activists have urged the authorities to take concrete steps for restoration and regular upkeep of the site.

They argue that preserving the memorial is necessary not only to honour Maharani Tarabai’s contribution but also to promote public awareness of an important chapter in Maratha history.

Calls have been made for improved conservation, better access, and inclusion of the site in regional heritage development plans.

Local residents and historians hope that sustained efforts by the administration will ensure that the memorial is protected for future generations.

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