In search of opportunity, Yesaji Angre's sons Mawji and Baburao (Sambhajirao's father and uncle respectively), moved to Gwalior to live with their sister Maina Bai, who was the mother of the ruler, Daulat Rao Scindia.

[3][5][6][4] Sambhaji's uncle, Baburao Angre, became an important member of Daulat Rao Scindia’s court, serving as prime minister and commander-in-chief.

[2][4] In 1839, when Raghoji Angre II, ruler of the Colaba State died in 1838 without a male heir, Sambhajirao tried to claim the kingship of the kingdom.

He came upon a group of young boys playing marbles and noticed one of them making a particularly difficult shot from a long distance.

[2][4] Sambhajirao Angre's palatial residence, Sambhaji Vilas, in the old town of Gwalior, still stands and is currently being operated as a guesthouse by his descendants.