NCERT’s History Distortion & Maratha Imposition

The NCERT, under the current BJP-led government, has been accused of publishing history textbooks that show a clear bias, glorifying Marathas while ignoring the contributions of other major dynasties, especially the Rajputs. This growing concern is now being raised by students, historians, politicians, royal families, and citizens alike.

Rajput History Removed, Marathas Glorified

NCERT books cover over 1500 years of Rajput history—from the 7th to the 19th century—in barely two pages. These sections often focus only on defeats or marriage alliances with Mughals, completely ignoring centuries of resistance, victories, and contributions to Indian civilization.

In contrast, Marathas, a confederacy that lasted only about 100–150 years—are given 22 pages, glorifying their role despite their historical limitations and alliances with Muslim powers.

Selective Mention of Alliances

The textbooks mention Rajput-Mughal alliances, but ignore similar alliances made by the Marathas and Jats with Muslim dynasties like the Mughals, Ahmadnagar, Bijapur (Adil Shahi), and Golconda. This selective narrative distorts the real political landscape of the time.

Ignored Rajput Victories and Resistance

The Battle of Haldighati is labeled “indecisive,” but no mention is made of Maharana Pratap’s major victories like:

• Battle of Dewair (1582)
• Siege of Kumbhalgarh (1583)
• Battle of Mohi (1577)

Rajput dynasties like the Sisodiyas, Parmars, Pratiharas, Solankis, Chauhans, Tomars, Kachhwahas, Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Chandels e.t.c are left out, despite centuries of resistance against Arab, Ghaznavid, Ghurid, Turkish, Delhi Sultanate, and Mughal invasions.

Misleading Maps and Claims of Empire

The map of the Maratha Confederacy shown in NCERT books is misleading, including areas where Marathas only collected chauth (tax), raided, or passed through—not regions they governed or administered.

Marathas acted more as plunderers and tax-collectors than as stable rulers. Presenting them as rulers of these areas is factually incorrect.

Missing Dark Chapters of Maratha Rule

If Maratha achievements are to be detailed, then textbooks must also mention:

• Their plundering in Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Northern India
• The destruction of temples and massacres of civilians
• Their label in many regions as “Dakhini Looteras” (Southern Plunderers)
• How their downfall after the Third Battle of Panipat was celebrated in both North and South India

History must show both contributions and wrongdoings.

Oversimplified Timeline: What About 800 Years of Resistance?

NCERT textbooks imply that foreign rule began in 1206 and continued until the Marathas “saved” India in the 1700s. This narrative erases 800 years of resistance by Rajputs and other Hindu dynasties who fought and preserved culture under difficult circumstances. It insults the memory of countless warriors, kings, saints, and builders.

Call for Transparency and Correction

NCERT must publish the sources used in drafting these chapters. The glorification of Marathas appears unbalanced and unreferenced, while well-documented Rajput-led Hindu resistance is either minimized or erased.

Conclusion: Time to Restore Balance

This isn’t just academic error — it is historical injustice. NCERT must take responsibility and revise the textbooks to reflect a balanced, inclusive, and accurate account of Indian history — one that respects all regions, communities, and dynasties.