Kanhoji Angre: Protecting the Konkan from Foreign Invaders

Kanhoji Angre, a Maratha naval admiral, is vividly brought to life in Sohail Rekhy’s Angria, capturing his relentless battles, personal flaws, and unwavering dedication to defending the Konkan.

Angria is a historical saga based on the life of Kanhoji Angre—a formidable and patriotic Maratha naval admiral who defended the Konkan in the service of Sambhaji and his heirs. The author of this admirably written novel is Sohail Rekhy. In an engaging and vivacious way, Sohail Rekhy has brought out the struggle Angria undertook to defend the Konkan for the Marathas against the Mughals, the Siddis (Abyssinians), the Portuguese, and the British East India Company.

Often referred to as a “pirate” by the British, Kanhoji captured “Firangi” ships and obliged them to carry dastaks, which would permit them to ply in the waters over which he had established control. His main aim was to overpower the Siddis in Janjira Fort (something he was never able to accomplish) and to prevent genuine pirates—who were either Dutch or British (erstwhile employees of the Dutch or British East India Company)—from harassing Indian traders who sailed to transport their goods.

The author has incorporated humour (often earthy, especially when referring to the “Firangis”), suspense, historical facts, and lyrical, evocative language to describe nature, characters, and events. For example: “The omnipotent sun is silent in its oppressive stride across the firmament. Every trace of moisture has been sucked dry from the soil, and the liberated dust blows, crusting the darkened leaves. The black and grey rocks and the craggy patches of laterite reach feverish pitches of sweat. It warps the air, and twisting plumes of mirages swirl like dervishes over the surface of the Konkan.”

Sohail Rekhy begins the narrative with Angria’s childhood, his instruction at the Gurukul, the invaluable friends and enemies he makes there, his marriages (he had three wives), and the impressive and brave manner in which he establishes himself—first as the Surnabaut (vice admiral) and then as the Sarkhel (admiral) of the Konkan. Among the many forts under his power are Suvarnadurg, Kolaba, and Khanderi.

However, this novel is no hagiography. Kanhoji is portrayed as a deeply human individual, with a fast temper, a weakness for women, and ambition—although he is very conscious of the fact that he is working for the betterment and defence of the Maratha royalty. What is highlighted is his outstanding tenacity, bravery, and acumen, especially during naval battles, as well as his adept crisis handling, especially in those situations in which he has been let down by informants and traitors.

Also skilfully depicted is the power struggle between the various heirs of Sambhaji (Shivaji’s sons), especially after the death of Aurangzeb, when there was a power vacuum in the Mughal and Maratha thrones. Angria faces a crucial dilemma: which royal heir (all warring) does he support in his endeavour to consolidate power for the Marathas? He is sometimes treated shabbily by them.

This is an admirably written historical saga, absorbing and incisive, bringing to the fore the politics and struggles of the Konkan region. Kanhoji Angre plays a pivotal role here, valiantly defending his Desha against Firangis of all types. The author also portrays the sad waning of the Agria’s power ultimately, due to infighting between his sons.

(The author is an independent researcher based in Mumbai.)