The Legacy of the First Female Maratha Army Chief

While stories of male rulers often dominate historical narratives, the tales of female warriors who shattered patriarchy and fought courageously are fewer. One such remarkable figure is Umabai Dabhade.

Umabai Dabhade | Source: India Times

India has witnessed numerous warriors, empires, and wars. The Maratha Empire, a bastion of courage protecting Mother India, hides compelling stories within its folds. The narrative of Umabai Dabhade is one such story, revealing her courageous fight for her community's rights during times of adversity.

Born to Abhonkar Devrao Deshmukh, Umabai was a sharp child married to Khanderao Dabhade. The Dabhade clan held the authority to collect taxes, known as Sardeshmukhi and Chauth, levied by the Maratha Kingdom on an annual basis on revenue and produce. Khanderao, Umabai's husband, served as the commander-in-chief (Senapati) under the Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shahu.

Tragically, Khanderao's premature death shifted the mantle to their son Trimbal Rao Dabhade, who assumed the title of Senapati. The Dabhade clan's livelihood primarily depended on tax revenue. However, their source of income faced a sudden halt when Peshwa Bajirao I ordered the cessation of tax collection, leading to widespread resentment.

In 1731, Umabai suffered the loss of her son Trimbak Rao in a war against Peshwa Bajirao, deepening her animosity toward the Peshwa. Chhatrapati, showing compassion, bestowed upon her all of her son's possessions, including the title of Senapati, to her other son Yashwant Rao. However, as Yashwant Rao was a minor, Umabai assumed the role of the first female Maratha Army Chief (Senapati). She was granted the authority to collect taxes and generate revenue in her province, with the condition of remitting half to the royal treasury.

Despite her gratitude to Chhatrapati, resentment toward the Peshwa persisted. However, this status quo did not last long. Chhatrapati and the Peshwa passed away, and the new rulers faced financial difficulties, leading them to seek financial relief from the Dabhades.

Umabai's plea for fairness fell on deaf ears, and she formed an alliance with Tarabai, the former Maratha Queen, against the Peshwa. They planned to imprison the Chhatrapati and attack the Peshwa. While Peshwa was away, Tarabai imprisoned the Chhatrapati, and Umabai sent soldiers to confront the Peshwa. However, their efforts proved short-lived, and a coerced peace agreement led to Gaekwad's surrender, resulting in Umabai's loss of power and wealth.

She breathed her last on 28 November 1753. Her life, though marked by its tragic end, remains an inspiration—a tale of resilience and the fight for what is rightfully yours.