Dabhade (Pronunciation: [d̪abʱaːɖe]) surname signifies Maratha[1] and Koli[2] clans found largely in Maharashtra, India.
The coastal Kolis had gained firearms and infantry warfare experience while serving as auxiliary matchlock levies to the Portuguese and to a lesser extent the British.
His younger son Shivaji Dabhade helped Rajaram I reach Gingee safely from the Mughals.
The Dabhades carried out several raids in the rich province of Gujarat, collecting chauth and sardeshmukhi taxes.
The Peshwa allowed them to retain control of Gujarat, on the condition that they would remit half of the revenues to his treasury.
Even as he grew up, he was addicted to alcohol and opium, and the Dabhades' lieutenant Damaji Rao Gaekwad gradually increased his power during this time.
However, after Shahu's death in 1749, Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao, who was facing an empty treasury, sought a share of revenues from the Dabhades.
Gaekwad agreed to provide an annual maintenance expense to the Dabhades, but the latter lost all of their power and much of their wealth.