The Battle of Assaye took place during the Second Anglo-Maratha War, which began in 1803 as tensions escalated between the British East India Company and the Maratha Empire over control of territory in India. The British, under the command of Major-General Arthur Wellesley, sought to establish dominance in the region by countering the growing influence of the Marathas. On this particular occasion, Wellesley advanced against a formidable Maratha force near the village of Assaye in the Western Ghats, where the Marathas had gathered to defend their territory.

The British troops were significantly outnumbered, with approximately 5,500 men facing around 23,000 Maratha soldiers. Despite the odds, Wellesley implemented a series of tactical maneuvers that took advantage of the terrain and the imperative need for discipline among his forces. The battle commenced with a heavy bombardment from British artillery, which played a pivotal role in disrupting the Maratha formations. As the battle unfolded, close-quarter combat ensued, showcasing Wellesley's leadership and the resilience of his troops.

The engagement lasted several hours and resulted in considerable casualties on both sides, but ultimately led to British victory. The Marathas faced a devastating defeat, with a significant number of their forces either killed or captured, while British losses were manageable. This victory not only boosted British morale but also marked a turning point in the conflict, paving the way for further British expansion and control in the Indian subcontinent. The aftermath would contribute to the restructuring of political dynamics in India and the eventual decline of the Maratha Empire.