What is shiledars?

Shiledars: Elite Cavalry of the Maratha Empire

Shiledars were a crucial component of the Maratha Empire's military might, forming the elite, self-equipped cavalry. Unlike the bargirs who were provided with horses and equipment by the state, Shiledars owned their own horses and weaponry, signifying their higher social standing and greater investment in warfare. This self-reliance allowed them greater autonomy and flexibility in campaigns.

Here's a breakdown of their key characteristics:

• Self-Equipped: The defining feature of a Shiledar was their responsibility for providing their own horse, armour, weapons (typically swords, spears, and matchlocks), and even often their own attendants. This made them significantly more expensive to maintain than bargirs from the perspective of the Maratha state, but also more personally invested in the outcome of battles. This is crucial for understanding the cost effectivness of <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Maratha%20Military">Maratha Military</a>.
• Social Status: Ownership of horses and equipment indicated a certain level of wealth and influence. Shiledars often came from well-established families with martial traditions and land holdings, which gave them a higher <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Social%20Status%20in%20Maratha%20Empire">Social Status in Maratha Empire</a>.
• Tactical Flexibility: Because they weren't directly beholden to the state for their gear, Shiledars could choose equipment that best suited their fighting style and the specific terrain. This contributed to the overall tactical flexibility of the Maratha army. They were often deployed in scouting, raiding, and flanking maneuvers. It is important to understand that the tactics used by <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Maratha%20Cavalry%20Tactics">Maratha Cavalry Tactics</a> were heavily reliant on Shiledars.
• Leadership Roles: Due to their experience and self-reliance, Shiledars frequently held leadership positions within Maratha cavalry units. They commanded smaller groups of soldiers and played key roles in decision-making during battles. We can understand how these impacted <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Maratha%20Leadership">Maratha Leadership</a>.
• Maintenance Costs: While Shiledars were self-equipped, the Maratha state sometimes provided grants or exemptions to help them maintain their equipment and horses, recognising their importance to the army. The role of Shiledars in the army, also affected the <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Maratha%20Economy">Maratha Economy</a>.