The Battle of Vasai saw the Maratha Empire engage in a pivotal conflict against the Portuguese, known for their colonial presence in India. The Marathas, under the command of Chimaji Appa, brother of Peshwa Baji Rao I, aimed to curtail Portuguese power in the region. The siege of Vasai fort began in early 1739 and culminated in a full-scale battle on May 16. The Marathas employed a combination of guerrilla tactics and traditional warfare, ultimately breaching the fort’s defenses after months of engagement.

The Portuguese, despite being well-entrenched and benefiting from European military technologies, were overstretched in their resources and unable to sustain a prolonged defense against the rising Maratha forces. The fall of Vasai was significant as it not only symbolized the shifting power dynamics in the region but also manifested the effective military organization of the Marathas, who were skilled at mobilizing and coordinating their troops over vast terrains.

Following the battle, the Portuguese were forced to sign a treaty that severely limited their influence and territorial claims in Maharashtra. This victory marked a turning point for the Marathas, allowing them to expand their dominion along the western coast and reinforcing their position as a formidable power in India, ultimately leading to a more unified resistance against European colonial forces.