In 1674 Shivaji Maharaj carved out his own independent kingdom from the declining Adhishahi Sultanate, which formed the genesis of the Maratha Empire. He was formally crowned the Chhatrapati of his realm. He was a great warrior and strategist of India. Shivaji is also known as the Father of the Indian Navy. Shivaji's military forces expanded the Maratha sphere of influence, capturing and building forts. Shivaji established a competent and progressive civil rule with well-structured administrative organisations. Ahilya Hoker expanded and sustained this in the 1700's.

17th century, the Mughal Empire ruled over a vast expanse of India from their capital in Agra. The strategic location of Delhi, led the Mughal rulers to establish Old Delhi.They constructed the Red Fort and the Jama Masjid. After the Indian Rebellion of 1857, which had its epicenter in Delhi, the British Crown took control. With India's independence, Delhi retained its status as the capital of the newly formed Republic of India.