The Battle of Koregaon was a significant event that took place on January 1, 1818 between the British East India Company’s forces and the Maratha Empire.
The battle was fought between a small British-led force of 800 soldiers, mostly from the Mahar (formerly untouchable) caste, and a much larger Maratha army. Despite being heavily outnumbered, the British forces were able to hold off the Maratha attack and secure a decisive victory.
The Battle of Koregaon is significant for a number of reasons.
- it marked the end of Maratha dominance in western India and signaled the beginning of British control over the region.
- it was seen as a victory for Dalits (formerly known as “untouchables”) and other oppressed communities, who made up the majority of the British-led force, and the battle has since become a symbol of resistance and pride for these communities.
Today, the Battle of Koregaon is remembered as an important moment in India’s history and is celebrated by many as a symbol of resistance against oppression and discrimination.