Battle of Moti Talab

The Battle of Moti Talab, which took place on March 5, 1771, was a significant engagement between the forces of Mysore, led by Hyder Ali(who was succeeded by his son Tipu Sultan after his death), and the Maratha army, commanded by Trimbak Rao. The battle resulted in a decisive victory for the Marathas

Background
Trimbak Rao moved cautiously through the districts of Shimoga and Tumkur, capturing small forts along the way. Near the end of February or early in March, he arrived at Seringapatam. It's possible that Hyder, feeling less intimidated by Madhav Row's superior intelligence or more confident in his own strength due to completing his army's preparations, also Madhavrao was ill and returned to Pune after capturing Devrayadurga and Nijgal, Hyder Ali decided to challenge Trimbak Rao. From Tumkur, Trimbak Rao went to Hebbur. Moti Talab is a large tank located in Tonnur, approximately 10 miles northwest of Seringapatam city. It was formed by building a dam across a gap between two rocky hills that holds back water from nearby mountain terrains.

Battle
Peshwa left 10,000 troops and 10 guns to reinforce Trimbak Rao.As the Maratha army approached Seringapatam in March 1771, Trimbak Rao, a Maratha leader, approached Seringapatam after capturing several forts during his journey. Haidar, the ruler of Mysore, have deployed troops to defend the fort in anticipation of the Maratha invasion of Bidnur. When Haidar's army met Trimbak Rao's forces at Moti talab, around 10 miles northwest of Seringapatam city, Tipu Sultan, son of Haider ali, faced multiple setbacks against the Maratha army but was ultimately forced to retreat back to his capital with significant losses of approximately 12,000 soldiers. On March 5, 1771, the Marathas emerged victorious. According to Trimbak Rao's account, they captured around 75 guns, approximately 8,000 horses, 20-25 elephants, treasure, and jewels. Some of Haidar's senior officials were killed, including Mir Reza, were also taken captive. Haidar himself fled to Seringapatam disguised as a monk or beggar.