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The name Maharashtra first appeared on the inscription of the seventh century. In those days the land had hardly anything significant. The people who lived there were chariot drivers and builders of chariot. After being ruled by a number of Hindu kings, Mughal emperor Babur conquered it in the middle of the 16th century. In Maharashtra, however, the Mughal domination was never absolute as there was a constant tussle between the Mughals and the Maratha forces of Peshwa.
The Maratha empire was founded by Shivaji Bhosle and from the day when he was coroneted at the age of sixteen till the day he died, Shivaji waged a relentless war against the Mughal rule and other allies of the Mughal. The result of this defiant struggle was that, when he died, most of southern India had been freed from Mughal occupation.
The rule of the Peshwas, however, ended with the beginning of the rule of the English. The region became a boiling pot during the Sepoy Mutiny and after that the country was directly governed by the British monarchy.
Maharashtra has a rich diversity in its culture and custom. The paintings of Ajanta stand testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region. The state is also renowned for its strong economy and the region was among the first to progress quickly towards industrialization.
Maharashtra is also known for its tourist destinations. The caves of Ajanta, Ellora and Elephanta are the best examples in fresco painting and sculpture that you will get anywhere in India. Maharashtra is also famous for its pristine beaches and beautiful hill stations. This is a wonderful part India that you will love to visit.
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