Deccan was under the control of six Muslim ruling dynasties, i.e. the Bahmanîds and their successors from the second half of the eight century to the end of the eleventh century (A.H.). Most of the ruling class, the aristocrats and courtiers in that period were Muslims. But the state particularly villages and small towns were dominated practicing Hindus and they still form the majority in Deccan. Consequently, the Muslims minority had no way but to employ the experienced and capable natives to rule over the Hindus and administer the military and governmental organizations of that vast territory. Moreover, they employed Hindus in large numbers for their military and governmental organizations. Giving Hindus more religious freedom, Muslim dynasties paved the way for their further effective cooperation. The main reliance of the Muslim kings in military affairs was on Maratha tribes and a number of big Maratha families with forces serving them. The financial organizations of these dynasties were mainly controlled by the Brahmans. In addition, the Hindus had a great influence on political issues and the court hence; some of them achieved the highest ranks such as ministerial position (pîshwâ). This article aims at reviewing the role and share of the Hindus in administrating the bodies of the Deccan Muslim governments in three areas of military, finance and politics.
