The Mughal Emperor, Aurangzeb, appointed Jai Singh to lead a 12,000-man army against Maratha king Shivaji.

Jai Singh was given full military power and made viceroy of Deccan by the Mughal Emperor.

[3] Shivaji is noted to have said when receiving Jai Singh "I have come as a guilty slave to seek forgiveness, and it is for you to pardon or kill me at your pleasure."

[8] To this end, he wrote letters to Aurangzeb, requesting forgiveness for his actions and security for himself along with a robe of honour.

He also requested Jai Singh to support him in getting his crimes pardoned by the emperor, stating "Now you are protector and a father to me, so I beg you to fulfil the ambition of your son.