The Maratha Empire's foray into the Doab and Punjab, spanning the years 1741 to 1761, unfolded in two distinctive phases. The first phase (1741-1752) commenced with Baji Rao's demise and the Mughal cession of Malwa and Gujarat. During this period, the Marathas secured the Chauth right over Rajasthan, laying the groundwork for their expansion into the Doab and Punjab. The second phase (1752-1761) witnessed the emergence of Ahmad Shah Abdali and a paradigm shift in Northern Indian politics, culminating in the infamous Battle of Panipat.

First Phase (1741-1752)

In the initial phase, the Marathas strategically concentrated on establishing their claim to the Chauth in "frontier" regions. Key developments included:

Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa Campaigns: Raghuji Bhonsle orchestrated raids in Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa to assert Chauth. Despite resistance from Nawab Alivardi Khan, a 1751 agreement fixed the Chauth at Rs.12,000 annually, with territorial exchanges favoring Raghuji.

Deccan Conflicts: The Marathas engaged in conflicts over control of Karnataka and Khandesh against Nizam (Asaf Jah) and Nasir Jang, Nizam's successor. The focus on Bengal and Orissa allowed the Nizam to establish temporary dominance in Karnataka.

Rajasthan Intrigues: Maratha influence in Rajasthan, strategically facilitated by Peshwa's lieutenants Holkar and Sindhia, aimed at extracting Chauth and campaign expenses from Rajput states. However, growing Rajput resentment culminated in the assassination of around 5000 Marathas in Jaipur in 1751.

Second Phase (1752-1761)

With Ahmad Shah Abdali's rise and invasion in 1748, a new political landscape emerged. Key events included:

Emperor's Plea: Upon Abdali's capture of Lahore, the Delhi Emperor sought assistance from the Peshwa. Sindhia and Holkar were dispatched to aid, marking a shift in Maratha intentions towards preserving the Mughal Empire.

Collaboration with Safdar Jung: After Emperor Muhammad Shah's death, Ahmad Shah appointed Safdar Jung as wazir. Seeking Maratha assistance against Ruhela Afghans and Ahmad Khan Bangash, Safdar Jung promised Rs.25,000 per day for campaign costs.

Alliance and Subahdaris: The Marathas and the Emperor reached an agreement in 1752. The Marathas committed to protecting the Emperor from internal and external threats, receiving 50 lakhs in return. The Subahdaris of Agra and Ajmer were bestowed upon the Peshwas.

Alliance with Imad-ul-Mulk (1753-1759)

During 1753-1759, the Marathas forged an alliance with the wazir Imad-ul-Mulk, marking a zenith in Maratha power in North India. However, this period also saw the alienation of potential allies, laying the groundwork for the tragic events at Panipat in 1761.

The Maratha Empire's advance into the Doab and Punjab was marked by strategic maneuvers, alliances, and conflicts. The initial focus on securing the Chauth and expanding influence in Rajasthan set the stage for the pivotal second phase, characterized by collaboration with the Emperor and confronting the looming threat of Ahmad Shah Abdali. The alliance with Imad-ul-Mulk showcased Maratha dominance but came at the cost of diplomatic isolation, ultimately contributing to the tragic outcome at Panipat in 1761.