What would have changed in post 1600s Deccan if the Marathas never became a pan India power?
Reading about the history of the Deccan during the 1600s and after, the Marathas play such an overwhelming role and that is understandable. So what could have changed for the Deccan, who else could have built lasting political and military power, if Chatrapati Shivaji or someone like him never emerged or more generally the Marathas never became the kind of overwhelming political force they became in our history?
Particularly, I'm asking about who else could have built significant political power in the Deccan in the power vaccum created by the coming Mughal decline. The more niche and bizarre the candidate, the better. Just make sure to keep any changes you make to the history to be in or after the 1600s.
Note: I am assuming that Mughal collapse in the 1700s is imminent. Title length on the sub doesn't allow me to put in the title but this is a core assumption of he what if
Mainly with this scenario, I'm just planning to talk about and learn about smaller more niche but also powerful players of the time with unrealised potential for political expansion. Excited to see everyone's responses.
Disclaimer: I don't have any will towards the Marathas not am i saying they are overrepresented in the history. Just want to explore the lesser known powers of the time.