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Tuesday, May 26, 2009
CHATRAPATI SHIVAJI MAHARAJ
Reign- 1664 - 1680
Coronation June 6, 1674
Full name Shivaji Shahaji Bhosle
Titles Kshatriya Kulavantas,GoBrahman Pratipalak
Born February 19, 1627
Birthplace Shivneri Fort, near Pune, India
Died April 3, 1680 (aged 53)
Place of death Raigad Fort
Successor Sambhaji
Wifes Sai bai,Soyarabai,Putalabai,Kashibai,
Sagunabai,Manjulabai,Sakavaarbai,Gunvantibai[1][2]
Offspring Sambhaji, Rajaram, and six daughters
Father Shahaji
Mother Jijabai
Religious beliefs Hinduism
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Shivaji Maharaj was the younger son of Shahaji and Jijabai Bhosle. Shivaji Maharaj's birth date has been a matter of controversy but recently a consensus has been reached and is deemed to be 19 February 1627.[8][9][10] He was born on Shivneri Fort, Junnar, 60 kilometres north of Pune and was named Shiva after Shivai, Goddess of the fort. Shivaji Maharaj was the fifth son born to Jijabai, 3 of whom had died as infants and only Sambhaji survived. While Shivaji Maharaj was accompanied mostly by his mother, Sambhaji lived with his father Shahaji at Bangalore (present day Bengaluru). During the period of Shivaji Maharaj's birth, the power in Maharastra was shared by three Sultanates - Bijapur, Ahmednagar, and Golconda. Most of the then Marathas forces had pledged their loyalties to one of these Sultanates and were engaged in a continuous game of mutual alliances and aggressions.
Shahaji Bhosle - Shivaji Maharaj's father - was the elder son of Maloji Bhosale of Verul (present day Ellora, Maharastra). Legend has it that Maloji Bhosale was insulted by Lakhuji Jadhavrao, a sardar in Nizamshahi, due his refusal to allow his daughter Jijabai's (Shivaji Maharaj's mother) marriage to his son - Shahaji. This lead Maloji to conquests to obtain a higher stature and an important role under Nizamshahi, something that eventually lead him to achieving the title of Mansabdar (military commander and a imperial administrator). Leveraging this new found fame and power he was able to convince Jadhavrao to give his daughter in marriage to his son Shahaji.
Shahaji continuing the lead of his father played an important role in various Deccan wars. He began service with the young Nizamshah of Ahmednagar and together with Malik Amber, Nizam's minister, he won back most of the district for the Nizamshah from the Moghuls who had gained it during their attack of 1600.[9] Thereafter Lakhuji Jadhav, Shahaji's father in law attacked Shahaji and surrounded him at the Mahuli fort along with Jijabai who was four months pregnant. After seeing no relief coming from Nizam, Shahaji decided to give up the fort and planned his escape.
He sent Jijabai off to the safety of Shivneri fort which was under his control. It was here at Shivneri that Shivaji Maharaj was born. In the meanwhile, Lakhuji and his three sons were murdered in Nizamshah's court while they had come there to join his forces. Unsettled by this incident Shahaji Raje decided to part ways with the Nizamshahi Sultanate and raise the banner of independence and establish an independent kingdom.
After this episode Ahmednagar fell to the Moghul emperor Shah Jahan, and shortly thereafter Shahji as Nizam's General responded by attacking the Mughal garrison and regained control of this region again. In response the Mughals sent a much larger force in 1635 to recover the area back and forced Shahaji to retreat into Mahuli. Adilshah of Bijapur agreed to pay tribute to the Moghuls in return for the authority to rule this region in the year of 1636.[9] Thereafter Shahaji was inducted by Adilshah of Bijapur and was offered a distant jagir - land holdings, at present-day Bangalore, but he was allowed to keep his old land tenures and holdings in Pune.[11][12]
[edit] Foundation of empire
Chhattrapati Shivaji Raje Bhosle, founder of the Maratha Empire.
Shahaji appointed young Shivaji Maharaj, under the care of his mother Jijabai to manage the Pune holdings. A small council of ministers was appointed to assist and train Shivaji Maharaj in administration. This council included Shamrao Nilkanth as Peshwa (Prime Minister), Balkrishna Pant as Muzumdar, Raghunath Ballal as Sabnis, Sonopant as Dabir and Dadoji Konddeo as teacher. Apart from these ministers, military commanders Kanhoji Jedhe and Baji Pasalkar were appointed to train Shivaji Maharaj in martial arts. In 1644, Shahaji had Lal Mahal built in Pune for his wife and his son Shivaji Maharaj. A royal seal in Sanskrit which read, This is the royal seal of Shivaji, son of Shahaji. This royal seal is for the welfare of people. This seal (the rule of the seal) will grow like the new moon grows, was handed to Shivaji Maharaj. Thus Shivaji Maharaj started his career as an independent young prince of a small kingdom on a mission. Shivaji Maharaj used the title of Raja (king) only after Shahaji's death.
Statue of Shivaji Maharaj in Mumbai
His mother made an indelible impression on him with her teachings, with her love for the homeland and its people. Shivaji Maharaj learned much from his father's failed attempts at political independence: his exceptional military capabilities and achievements, his knowledge of Sanskrit, Hindu ethos, patronage of the arts, his war strategies and peacetime diplomacy. He was inspired and informed by his family's vision of independence and freedom.
Furthermore, his mother, having lost her father and three brothers to a treacherous plot hatched by the regional king Nizamshah, was opposed to those who she considered alien rulers, due to their derision and callousness toward the local population. Jijabai thus instilled in Shivaji Maharaj a natural love for self-determination and an aversion to external political domination.
Her piety and commitment to indigenous culture and her recounting of tales from the great Indian epics of Mahabharata and Ramayana molded Shivaji Maharaj's character and helped him to be peerless (as confirmed by even otherwise inimical chroniclers, Khafi Khan) especially in his tolerant attitude towards other religions as well as in his fair and kind treatment of women and non-combatants.
Shahaji's vision, and Jijabai's teachings and motivation, and the able training by statesmen and administrators like Dadoji Kondadev, military commanders such as Gomaji Naik Pansambal and Baji Pasalkar were the main influences which groomed Shivaji Maharaj into a brave and fearless military leader as well as a responsible administrator. Shivaji Maharaj along with his mavla friends took a blood oath to fight for the "Swarajya" at Rohideshwara temple. And young Shivaji Maharaj, energetic and enthusiastic as he was, wasted no time in setting off on a path of freedom and glory.
[edit] Confrontation with the Regional Sultanates
At the age of 17 Shivaji Maharaj carried out his first military action by attacking and capturing Torna Fort of the Bijapur kingdom, in 1645.By 1647 he had captured Kondana and Rajgad forts and had control of much of the southern Pune region.
By 1654 Shivaji Maharaj had captured forts in the Western Ghats and along the Konkan coast. In a bid to sabotage this move of the Marathas under Shivaji Maharaj's able leadership, Adilshah had his father - Shahaji arrested by deceitful means, and he sent one army against Sambhaji, Shivaji Maharaj's elder brother at Bangalore (led by Farradkhan) and another against Shivaji Maharaj at Purandhar (led by Fattekhan). However both Bhosle brothers defeated the invading armies - there is also a possibility that Shivaji Maharaj petitioned Shahjahan to seek his support - securing the release of their father. Thereafter,Afzal Khan, a seasoned commander and an accomplished warrior, was sent to destroy Shivaji Maharaj, in an effort to put down what was seen by Bijapur as a regional revolt.
[edit] Battle of Pratapgarh
Main article: Battle of Pratapgarh
Afzal Khan, after leaving Bijapur desecrated Hindu temples at Tuljapur and at Pandharpur. His plan was to get an emotionally overwrought Shivaji Maharaj to retaliate with his limited military resources, and thus to lead him to easy destruction and that of his budding military power by the numerically larger Bijapur army. However Shivaji Maharaj had other ideas, he sent a letter saying he was not eager to face Afzal Khan and sought some type of understanding. Shivaji Maharaj upon carefully weighing his options, strategically decided to confront and surprise Afzal Khan under the guise of diplomatic negotiations. A meeting was arranged between Afzal Khan and Shivaji Maharaj at the foothills of Fort Pratapgad.[6] Shivaji Maharaj got word that Afzal Khan planned to slay him during the meeting.
Wagh nakh
Shivaji Maharaj, armed himself with weapons, called bichwa (dagger), wagh nakh (tiger claw), and chilkhat (chain-mail armour) prior to the meeting. What transpired during the meeting cannot be ascertained historically, but the popular version says the taller Afzal Khan - under the pretense of a customary hug - gripped Shivaji Maharaj's neck under his left arm and stabbed him with a dagger with his right. However, Shivaji Maharaj's armour and his agility saved him. In retaliation, he attacked Afzal Khan with a wagh nakh and bich'hwa, spilling his blood and entrails on the ground. Thereupon Afzal Khan's bodyguard Sayyed Banda attacked Shivaji Maharaj with swords but Jiva Mahala, Shivaji Maharaj's personal bodyguard fatally struck him down, cutting off one of Sayyed Banda's hands with a Dandpatta(Pata- a medieval weapon). Afzal Khan managed to stumble out of the tent to get help and stumbled into a waiting palanquin, but was attacked and beheaded by Shivaji Maharaj's associate Sambhaji Kavji Kondhalkar, before he could escape or raise an alarm.[6]
In the ensuing battle of Pratapgarh in the dense forests, which was fought on November 30, 1659, Shivaji Maharaj's armies attacked Bijapur's (Afzal Khan's) forces and engaged them in swift flanking maneuvers. Immediately after slaying Afzal Khan, Shivaji Maharaj galloped up the slope towards the fortress with his lieutenants and ordered cannons to be fired. This was a signal to his infantry, which had been strategically placed under the cover of the densely covered valley, to immediately attack Afzal Khan's forces.[6]
Maratha troops under Kanhoji Jedhe attacked 1,500 muskeeters and routed them at the foothills of the fort. Then in a rapid march, a section of Adilshahi forces commanded by Musekhan was attacked. Musekhan was wounded and subsequently fled the field, leaving his soldiers to fend for themselves. Commander Moropant Pingale led the infantry on the left flank of the Adilshahi troops. Adilshah's artillery was made ineffective by his sudden attack at close quarters. Commander Ragho Atre swiftly attacked the cavalry before they were prepared for battle and were almost completely wiped out. The cavalry under Netaji Palkar galloped towards Wai in hot pursuit of retreating Adilshahi forces, who were attempting to join the Adilshahi forces stationed there. The retreating forces of Afzal Khan were engaged in battle and were routed.[6]
This remarkable victory made Shivaji Maharaj a hero of Maratha folklore and a legendary figure among his people. The large quantities of captured weapons, horses, armour and other materials helped to strengthen the nascent and emerging Maratha army. The Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, now identified Shivaji Maharaj as a major threat to the mighty Mughal Empire.
Soon thereafter a decision was made by Shivaji Maharaj and Shahaji, and Netaji Palkar(the chief of the Maratha cavalry) to immediately attack and defeat the Adilshahi kingdom at Bijapur. But, things didn't go as planned and Shahaji's health deteriorated and thus, he had to postpone the plan of attacking Bijapur. However, Netaji Palkar continued attacking and harassing the Adilshahi kingdom.
Subsequently, the Sultan of Bijapur sent an elite Pashtun army comprised mainly of Afghani mercenaries to subdue and defeat Shivaji Maharaj before he could substantially expand his army. In the resulting war, Bijapur's Pashtun army was decimated by the Maratha troops. The intense and bloody battle ended in the unconditional surrender of Bijapuri forces to Shivaji Maharaj.
[edit] Battle of Kolhapur
Main article: Battle of Kolhapur
To counter the loss at Pratapgad and to defeat the newly emerging Maratha power, another army, this time numbering over 10,000, was sent against Shivaji Maharaj, commanded by Bijapur's renowned Abyssinian general Rustamjaman. With cavalry of 5000 Marathas, Shivaji Maharaj attacked them near Kolhapur on December 28, 1659. In a swift movement, Shivaji Maharaj led a full frontal attack at the center of the enemy forces while other two portions of his cavalry attacked the flanks. This battle lasted for several hours and at the end Bijapuri forces were soundly defeated and Rustamjaman ignominiously fled the battlefield.[6] Adilshahi forces lost about 2000 horses and 12 elephants to the Marathas
This victory alarmed the mighty Mughal empire who now derisively called Shivaji Maharaj "Mountain Rat" . Aurangzeb the Mughal emperor was now actively preparing to bring the full might and resources of the Mughal Empire to bear down on the potential Maratha threat.
[edit] Battle of Pavan Khind
Main article: Battle of Vishalgarh
In 1660, Adil Shah, once again sent Siddi Johar an accomplished general to put down Shivaji Maharaj. He ordered his large army north to Kolhapur, Maharashtra to confront and defeat Shivaji Maharaj once and for all. Jasvantrao Dalvi of Palavani and Suryarao Surve of Sringarpur aided Siddi Jauhar to subdue Shivaji Maharaj.[6]
At that time Shivaji Maharaj was camped at the Panhala fort with 3000 Marathas, near present day Kolhapur, on the borders of his dominion. Siddi Johar's army camped near Panhala, cutting off supply routes to the fort. The fort was besieged by Baji Ghorpade and Siddi Masud from the west, Sadat khan and Bhai khan from the north, Rustam Zaman and Bade khan from the east, Siddi Jauhar and Fazal khan from the south. Netaji Palkar, the Commander-in-chief of the Maratha forces was engaged away from Panhala harassing and conquering more and more Adilshahi territory and thus, wasn’t able to come to the help of Shivaji Maharaj. At this point of time, Shaista khan had moved from Baramati to Shirwal.
Panhala was a formidable fort, conquering it was a major challenge. The Adilshahi forces weren’t able to come near the fort. Thus, Siddi Jauhar approached Henry Revington, the British chief at the Rajapur port for the use of long-range and more advanced cannons. Henry decided to help him and started striking Panhala. However, Marathas continued defending Panhala valiantly and did not allow Siddi Jauhar to approach the fort.
On hearing about the tightening siege of Panhala by Siddi Jauhar, Netaji Palkar returned from Bijapur and attacked the Adilshahi forces surrounding Panhala. He tried his best to break the siege but the smaller Maratha force was pushed back by a much larger Adilshahi army.
Thereafter, Shivaji Maharaj, decided to escape to a nearby fort Vishalgad, where he could regroup his soldiers to fight under better conditions. Shivaji Maharaj sent misleading messages to Siddi Johar indicating that he was willing to negotiate and was looking for accommodation, understanding and mercy. With this news Adilshahi soldiers relaxed , and Shivaji Maharaj escaped under the cover of a very stormy night. Johar's soldiers captured a small group of the Marathas apparently including Shivaji Maharaj, only to realize he was a look-alike dressed like Shivaji Maharaj, sent out to create a diversion and facilitate the real king's escape. Siddi Johar's soldiers realized that the imposter was Shivaji Maharaj's barber and that Shivaji Maharaj and his army were headed to Vishalgad.[6]
Sensing that enemy cavalry was fast closing in on them Shivaji Maharaj sought to avoid defeat and capture. Baji Prabhu Deshpande, a brave Sardar along with 300 soldiers, volunteered to fight to the death to hold back the enemy at Ghod Khind ( a mountain pass ) to give Shivaji Maharaj and the rest of the army a chance to reach the safety of Vishaal Gad.[6]
In the ensuing battle of Pavan Khind, Baji Prabhu Deshpande fought relentlessly. He was almost fatally wounded but he held on and continued to attack until he heard the sound of cannon fire from Vishaal Gaad, signalling Shivaji Maharaj had reached safety of the fort. The result was the death of 300 Marathas and 1286 of Adilshah's troops in this fierce battle.[6]
Thereafter a truce was made between Shivaji Maharaj and Adilshahi through Shahaji, acknowledging and formally recognizing the independence of Shivaji Maharaj's Kingdom. Also, as the terms of peace, Panhala Fort was awarded to Siddi Johar.[6]
Ghod Khind (khind = " a narrow mountain pass") was renamed Pavan Khind (Sacred Pass) in honor of Bajiprabhu Deshpande and the soldiers who selflessly fought and died to save their king and country. A small memorial stands even today in the pass in recognition of the heroism of Bajiprabhu and his courageous men.
This remained the situation until the death of Shahaji. Henceforth the Marathas became a formal and recognized power in the Deccan.
[edit] Conquest Of Konkan
An Uzbek general, Kartalab Khan, was sent by Mughal emporer Aurangzeb on a mission to attack and reduce Shivaji Maharaj's forts in the Konkan on 3rd Feb,1661. He left his camp near Pune with 30,000 troops. This time the Mughals did not march openly, as they seeked to surprise Shivaji Maharaj. But instead Shivaji Maharaj took them by surprise at a pass known as 'Umber Khind'(in a dense forest, near present-day Penn), and attacked them from all sides. Marathas hidden in the forest inflicted high casualties on the Mughals. Shivaji Maharaj himself took the forward position with an elite cavalry unit. The other three sides were blocked by Shivaji Maharaj's light infantry.
In a brilliantly co-ordinated movement of light infantry and cavalry, Shivaji Maharaj prevailed over them. A lady commander Raibagan who fought on the Mughal side analyzed the situation and realised that defeat was imminent and advised Kartalab Khan to accept defeat and initiate a compromise with Shivaji Maharaj. Within 4 hours in to the attack the enemy accepted defeat. They surrendered all of their supplies and arms. The Mughal army suffered huge casualties. The defeated army was allowed a safe passage. Kartalab Khan and Raibagan were released with honour in accordance with Shivaji Maharaj's terms and his long standing policy towards women and unarmed civilians.[6]
[edit] Clash with the Mughals
[edit] Shaista Khan
In January, 1660, Aurangzeb sent his maternal uncle Shaista Khan, with a large army to defeat Shivaji Maharaj. He was an experienced commander who had defeated Shahaji in the same region in 1636. His army numbered over 100,000.[6]
Shaista Khan, seized Pune and the nearby fort of Chakan. Although he held Pune for almost a year, he had little further success. He had set up his residence at Lal Mahal, Shivaji Maharaj's palace, in the city of Pune.[6]
Shaista Khan kept the security in Pune very tight. Shivaji Maharaj planned a daring attack on Shaista Khan amidst tight security. In April 1663, a wedding party had obtained special permission for a procession; Shivaji Maharaj planned an attack using the wedding party as cover. The Marathas disguised themselves as the bridegroom's procession and entered Pune. Shivaji Maharaj, having spent much of his youth in Pune, knew his way around the city and his own palace of Lal Mahal.[6] Chimanaji Deshpande-one of the childhood friends of Shivaji Maharaj aided him in this attack offering his services as a personal bodyguard.
According to Babasaheb Purandare, since Mughal army also consisted of Maratha soldiers, it was difficult for someone to distinguish between Shivaji Maharaj's Maratha soldiers and the Maratha soldiers of the Mughal army. Thus, taking advantage of this confusion, Shivaji Maharaj, along with a few of his trusted men, infiltrated the Mughal camp.
After overpowering and slaying the palace guards, the Marathas broke into the mansion by breaking through a wall. Chimanji and Netaji Palkar first entered to provide cover for Shivaji Maharaj. Babaji Deshpande another of Shivaji Maharaj's long time loyal associates offered rear guard protection during the attack. Shivaji Maharaj then personally confronted Shaista Khan in a 'face to face' attack and severed three of his fingers with his sword as he fled through an open window. Shaista Khan narrowly escaped death; lost his son, many of his guards and soldiers in the raid.[6]
Within twenty-four hours of this daring attack, Amir-ul-Umra, Shaista Khan left Pune and headed North towards Agra. An angered Aurangzeb transferred him to distant Bengal as a punishment for bringing embarrassment to the Mughals with his very personal and ignoble defeat in Pune.[4]
[edit] Surat and Mirza Raja Jai Singh
In 1664 Shivaji Maharaj invaded Surat, an important and wealthy Mughal trading city, and looted it to replenish his now depleted treasury and also as a revenge for the capture and looting of Maratha territory by Shaista Khan.[6]
Aurangzeb was enraged and sent Mirza Raja Jai Singh I, with an army numbering well over 100,000 to defeat Shivaji Maharaj. The Mughal forces proved to be unstoppable in the early battles and Shivaji Maharaj decided to come to terms with Aurangzeb. In the treaty of Purander, signed between Shivaji Maharaj and Jai Singh, Shivaji Maharaj agreed to give up 23 of his forts and 400,000 rupees to the Mughals. He also agreed to let his son Sambhaji become a Mughal Sardar and serve the Mughal court of Aurangzeb
[edit] Trip To Agra and Escape
In 1666, Aurangzeb summoned Shīvajī to Agra, along with his six year old son Sambhajī, on the occasion of his fiftieth birthday. Aurangzeb's plan was to send Shivaji Maharaj to Kandahar, modern day Afghanistan to consolidate the Mughal Empire's north-western frontier. However in the court, on May 12, 1666, Aurangzeb made Shīvajī stand behind mansabdārs (military commanders) of his court.[6] Shivaji Maharaj took offense at this seeming insult and stormed out of court and was promptly placed under house arrest, under the watch of Fulād Khān, Kotwal of Agra.
From his spies, Shīvajī learned that Aurangzeb planned to shift him to Rājā Vitthaldās's Haveli and then to possibly kill him or send him to fight in the Afghan frontier. As a result Shīvajī planned his escape. The entire plan of escape displayed Shīvajī's excellent ability to carefully analyze, plan and to flawlessly execute the plan, bringing it to a successful outcome. He feigned almost fatal sickness and requested to send most of his contingent back to the Deccan. Thereafter, on his request, he was allowed to send daily shipments of sweets and gifts to saints, fakirs, and temples in Agra as offerings for getting well.[6]
Shivaji Maharaj also ensured the safe return of the Maratha army (which accompanied him) to Deccan by assuring Aurangzeb that he didn't feel the need to have an army at Aurangzeb's camp and thereby deceived Aurangzeb. After several days and weeks of sending out boxes containing sweets, Shīvajī and his six year old son Sambhaji hid themselves in two of the boxes and managed to escape. Shīvajī and his son fled to the Deccan disguised as sadhus (holy men). After the escape, rumours of Sambhajī's death were intentionally spread by Shīvajī himself in order to deceive the Mughals and to protect Sambhajī.[6]
Dr. Ajit Joshi in a book Agryahun Sutka, concluded that Shīvajī most likely disguised himself as a Brahmin priest after performance of religious rites at the haveli grounds and escaped by mingling in within the departing priestly entourage.[citation needed]
However, according to Mr. Ranjit Desai; author of the Marathi book Shriman Yogi (later translated to English as Shivaji the Great) Shivaji Maharaj disguised himself as one of the servants who used to carry boxes of sweets which were being sent out as gifts.
[edit] Preparing for War
In the years 1667-69, Shīvajī adopted a low profile and began to aggressively build up his army. His army now contained about 40,000 cavalry, backed by 60,000 infantry, a strong navy and a potent artillery. The Mughals had the impression that he was now a spent force and would not cause them any more trouble. But Shīvajī was on a war footing and aimed to directly take on the combined might of the Mughal Empire. In January 1670 Shīvajī launched a major, multi-pronged assault on Mughal garrisons in Maharashtra. Within six months he had regained most of his previously held territory and more.[6] From 1670 to 1674 Shīvajī expanded his kingdom to include the major portions of Maharashtra and far in to the south including parts of modern-day Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
[edit] Battle of Sinhagad
Kondana fort, on the outskirts of Pune, was still under Mughal control. Uday Bhan Rathod, the fort keeper, led an army of about 1500 Rajputs and Mughals for the protection of the fort. On February 4, 1670 Shīvajī deputed one of his most senior and trusted generals, Tanaji Malusare, to head a mission to capture Kondana. At that time, Tanhaji's son's (Raiba's) wedding was due. However, putting his duty for the Maratha land over his family he roared "Aadhi lagn Kondanyacha, mag majhya Raibacha" (First Kondana will be conquered, then Raiba will marry).[6]
The Maratha army under Tanaji Malusare assigned to capture the fort was much smaller than the Mughal army posted at the fort. Tanaji Malusare surveyed the fort and its defenses for some days. The fort was extremely well guarded. One very sheer cliff caught Tanaji's eye. This side was least guarded as one could not possibly imagine climbing the fort from this steep side. Tanaji decided to scale this cliff to enter the fort. He used a monitor lizard (known as a ghorpad in Marathi named "Yeshwanti" with a rope tied around its body for climbing this cliff on a moonless night.[6] Perhaps this was the first time in the history of wars that a lizard was used to climb a fort.[citation needed]
As the advance party reached the top, they threw ropes for others to climb. Meanwhile Tanaji's brother Suryaji moved close to the gates of the fort, namely Kalyān Darwāja, with another 300 Mavalas. The gates were soon opened and once inside, all his soldiers joined Tanaji in the surprise attack.
Tanaji and Uday Bhan came face to face and a fierce fight ensued. Uday Bhan broke Tanaji`s shield with a single blow, Tanaji was not deterred and proceeded to wrap his turban around his left hand for protection and to cover up his wounds, staunch the bleeding, and he continued to fight. Both the warriors were fighting valiantly. In the end, both of them died, being fatally wounded. Seeing their leader mortally wounded and dying before them, the Maratha soldiers started to back-up and retreat, Suryaji and Shelar Mama stepped up and assumed leadership. Shelar Mama an Old Sardar in his seventies faced and challenged Uday Bhan and killed him. Suryaji, then stepped in front and center to rally the troops and lead them back on the offensive. The Marathas now re-commenced their ferocious attack on the Mughal defenders, and focusing on the fight with their hearty war cry 'Har Har Mahadev' (Hail to Lord Shiva) (Marathi: हर हर महादेव), they captured the fort.[6]
When Shīvajī reached the fort after the victory, he was deeply bereaved at the loss of his good friend Tanaji. He sadly commented "Gadh ala puhn sinha gela" (The fort was won but the lion was lost). Thereafter Kondana Fort was renamed Sinhagad (Lion Fort) to honour Tanaji Malusare's bravery and sacrifice.[6]
[edit] Coronation
Shīvajī was formally crowned Chhatrapati (Chief, or King of the Kshatriyas), on June 6, 1674 at Raigad fort, and given the title Kshatriya Kulavantas Sinhasanadheeshwar Chhatrapati Shīvajī Mahārāj. Pandit Gaga Bhatt, a renowned Brahmin from Varanasi, officially presided over the ceremony declaring that Shīvajī's lineage was a bonafide and recognized Kshatriya.[6]
He was bestowed with the Jaanva, (in Hindi the Janeu the sacred thread), with the Vedas and was bathed in an abisheka. Shīvajī had insisted on an Indrabhishek ritual, which had fallen into disuse since the 9th century.
Shīvajī then had the title of "shakkarta" conferred upon him. He started his own calendar. A few days later a second ceremony was carried out, this time according to the Bengal school of Tantricism and presided over by Nischal Puri.
[edit] Southern Expedition
Main article: Dakshin Digvijaya
At the end of 1676, Shivaji Maharaj launched a wave of conquests in southern India with a massive force of 50,000 (30,000 cavalry & 20,000 infantry).[6] He defeated and captured the forts at Vellore and Jinji near Bijapur, Karnataka, modern-day Tamilnadu. He also signed a friendship treaty with the Kutubshah of Golconda. These victories proved quite crucial during future wars. Jinjee served as Maratha capital for 9 years during 27 years of war. However, his main intention was to reconcile with Vyankoji or Ekoji (Shahaji's son from his second wife, who came from the Mohite family) who ruled Thanjavur after Shahaji. They had talks, Vyankoji showed signs of uniting with Shivaji Maharaj but then no concrete result was obtained.[6] (However, both of them weren't enemies and just ruled different kingdoms).
[edit] Rule
Shivaji Maharaj was an able and competent administrator and established a government that included such modern concepts as cabinet (Ashtapradhan mandal), foreign affairs (Dabir) and internal intelligence.[13] Shivaji Maharaj established an effective civil and military administration. He also built a powerful navy and erected new forts like Sindhudurg and strengthened old ones like Vijaydurg on the west coast.[6] The Maratha navy held its own against the British, Portuguese and Dutch[14] till Maratha internal conflict brought their downfall in 1756.
Shivaji Maharaj is well known for his benevolent attitude towards his subjects. He believed that there was a close bond between the state and the citizens. He encouraged all accomplished and competent individuals to participate in the ongoing political/military struggle. He is remembered as a just and welfare-minded king. He brought revolutionary changes in military organisation, fort architecture, society and politics.[6]
He laid the foundations of the modern Marathi identity and infused it with strong martial and moral traditions.
Shivaji Maharaj successfully lead and marshalled his forces to cope and overcome several major enemy invasions of his territories. He was also unceasing and inexorable in expanding his kingdoms boundaries. His success was driven by his fierce and urgent determination to establish a free and independent homeland, and in this goal he was supported by the high level of loyalty, respect and commitment he received from his soldiers, followers and citizens.
He was an innovator and an able commander, he successfully used effective tactics including hit-and-run, strategic expansion of territories and forts, formation of highly mobile light cavalry and infantry units, adaptation of strategic battle plans and formations, whereby he succeeded in out-maneuvering, time and time again, his vastly bigger and determined enemies.
Toward the end of his reign he had built up the Maratha forces to be over one hundred thousand strong. He was able to effectively keep the Mughal forces in check and on the defensive while expanding his kingdom southward to Gingee, Tamil Nadu.[6]
Shivaji Maharaj's kingdom served as a Hindu bulwark against Mughal powers within India. His brilliant strategic and tactical maneuvering on battlefields and his acute management and administrative skills helped him to lay the foundations of the future Maratha empire in India.
[edit] Character
During his long military career and his many campaigns his strong religious and warrior code of ethics, exemplary character and deep seated and uncompromising spiritual values directed him to offer protection to houses of worship, non-combatants, women and children. He always showed respect, defended and protected places of worship of all denominations and religions.
Shivaji Maharaj was once offered as a war booty an extremely beautiful young lady, by an uninformed Maratha captain. She was the daughter-in-law of a defeated Muslim Amir (local ruler) of Kalyan, Maharashtra. Shivaji Maharaj was reported to have told the lady that her beauty was mesmerizing and that if his mother was as beautiful as her, he would have been handsome as well. He told her to go back to her family in peace, unmolested and under his protection. His behaviour, was noted by those around him, to be always of the highest moral caliber. He clearly and unambiguously embodied the virtues and ideals of a true nobleman.[6]
He boldly risked his life, his treasure and his personal well being and that of his family, to openly challenge his immensely larger enemies to defend and achieve freedom and independence for his country. And in that lay the foundations of the greatness of Chhattrapati Shivaji Maharaj, which was based not as much on his successes on or off the battlefields, or on the strength of his arms, or his brilliant strategies or his noble birth but was truly based on his selfless and courageously fierce actions he undertook against his powerful enemies, on behalf of his beloved Vatan (sacred homeland/nation). He unflinchingly defied overwhelming odds stacked against him by the mighty, aggressive and massive Mughal empire and the sultanates, he overcame and succeeded in face of unprecedented level of difficult and inexorable challenges and trials posed by his enemies.[6]
He did not spend any resources on projects designed for self-aggrandizement or vanity, instead he was propeled by his deeply held sense of Dharma (sacred duty) to his people and country which lead him to directly challenge the dangerous, powerful and oppressive enemies (the Sultanates and the Mughals). His legacy is heroism, selflessness, freedom, independence, brotherhood and unwavering courage, and as such he is a great role model for the ages.[6]
Shivaji Maharaj did not believe in being treated as a royalty, in fact he mingled freely with his subjects to spend time with them to be a better leader and a king. It is reported that he enjoyed simple meals of crushed onion and ‘bhakris’ - a type of Indian peasant bread with his foot soldiers (mavlas). His character could be termed as 'down to earth' and while he took his mission with utmost seriousness he did not seemingly consider his own needs to be above his people's welfare or their security.[6]
As a result of this Shivaji Maharaj struck a deep chord with his followers and the citizenary. And the high level of admiration and respect he earned from his followers and subjects sets him apart from most other Indian kings or chieftains in the recorded Indian history. Even today he is venerated in India and especially in the state of Maharashtra with awe and admiration and is viewed as a hero of epic proportions.[6]
[edit] Military, Navy and Forts
M.V. Dhurandhar's painting of Shivaji Maharaj.
Shivaji Maharaj's genius is most evident in his military organisation which lasted till the demise of the Maratha empire. He was one of the pioneers of commando actions, "Ganimi Kava" a term used for such a warfare, (though the term "commando" is modern).[15] Shivaji Maharaj was responsible for a lot of changes in military organization. These include -
A standing army belonging to the state called paga;
All war horses belonged to the state; responsibility for their upkeep rested on the Soveriegn.
Creation of part time soldiers from peasants who worked for eight months in the field and supported four months in war.
Highly mobile and light infantry and cavalry were his innovations and they excelled in commando tactics;
The introduction of a centralized intelligence department, spy system, a potent navy, and regular chain-of-command;
Introduction of field craft viz. Guerrilla warfare, commando actions, swift flanking attacks;
Innovation of weapons and firepower, innovative use of traditional weapons like tiger claw or 'Baghnakh'. 'Vita' was a weapon invented by Shivaji Maharaj;
Militarisation of almost the entire society, including all classes, with the entire peasant population of settlements and villages near forts actively involved in their defence.[6]
Shivaji Maharaj realized the importance of having a secure coastline and protecting the western Konkan coastline from the attacks of Siddi’s fleet.[16][6][17] He had realized the tactical advantage of having a strong navy and decided to purse this idea. Shivaji Maharaj was concerned about the growing dominance of British India naval forces over Indian waters and started building his navy forces to tackle this issue. For this very reason he is also referred to as the “Father of Indian Navy”.[citation needed]
Main article: Shivaji's Forts
Pratap Gad
Shivaji Maharaj constructed a chain of 300 or more forts running over a thousand kilometres across the rugged Western Ghats. Each were placed under three officers of equal status lest a single traitor should deliver it to the enemy. The officers (Sabnis, Havladar, Sar-i-naubat) acted jointly and provided mutual checks balance. Shivaji Maharaj had control of 360 forts when he died.[6]
[edit] Promotion of Sanskrit
The house of Shivaji Maharaj was one of the Indian royal families who were well acquainted with Sanskrit and promoted it. The root can be traced from Shahaji who supported Jayram Pindye and many like him. Shivaji Maharaj's seal was prepared by him.
Shivaji Maharaj continued this trait and developed it further. He named his forts as Sindhdurg, Prachandgarh, Suvarndurg etc. He named Ashta Pradhan (council of ministers) as per Sanskrit nomenclature viz. Nyayadhish, Senapati etc. He got Rajya Vyavahar Kosh (a political treatise) prepared. His Rajpurohit Keshav Pandit was himself a Sanskrit scholar and poet.[18]
After his death, Sambhaji, who was himself a Sanskrit scholar (his verse - Budhbhushanam), continued it. His grandson Shahu spent his entire childhood in Mughal captivity, which affected his taste. But even he showered gifts on learned Brahmins. Serfoji II from the Thanjavur branch of the Bhosle continued the tradition by printing the first book in Marathi Devnagari.[citation needed]
Sambhaji issued one danapatra (donation plaque) which is in Sanskrit composed by himself in which he writes about his father as:
Yavanarambha gritat mlechakshaydiksha: It means - Shivaji had taken a sacred oath and was on mission to defeat invaders
Dillindraman pradhvanspatu: One who has defeated the Mughal Emperor of Delhi
Vijayapuradhishwar prathtarmanya bhujchachayay: One whose help was sought by Adilshahi King of Vijaypur[citation needed]
[edit] Religion
As per legend, the family deity of the Bhosle's, goddess Bhavani presented a divine sword to Shivaji Maharaj.
Shivaji Maharaj made available to Ramdas a fort named Parali Fort to establish his permanent monastery there. The fort was subsequently renamed as "Sajjangad"(Fort of Decent/Holy ones). Shivaji Maharaj and Ramdas swami first met in 1674, Shivaji Maharaj accepting Ramdas swami then as his spiritual guru. Samarth Ramdas offered advise to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the political and strategic issues. Also there are many credible historical references that Sant (Saint) Tukaram was also Spiritual guru Of Shivaji raje.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was a devout Hindu and he respected all religions within the region. Shivaji Maharaj had great respect for Warkari saints like Tukaram and Sufi Muslim pir Shaikh Yacub Baba Avaliya of Konkan.[19]
He also visited Mouni Maharaj temple and Samadhi at Patgaon (Bhudargad Taluka near to Gargoti) in Kolhapur district. Shahaji had donated a huge piece of land to Shaha-Sharif Durgah of Ahmednagar. (The names "Shahaji", the father of Shivaji Maharaj, and "Sarfoji", the uncle of Shivaji Maharaj, are derived in deference to this Shah Sharifji.)
Shivaji Maharaj allowed his subjects freedom of religion and opposed forced conversion.[6][20] The first thing Shivaji Maharaj did after a conquest was to promulgate protection of mosques and Muslim tombs. Shivaji Maharaj's army consisted of a noticeable number of Muslims, as were his commanders: One of his most trusted general in all his campaigns was Haider Ali Kohari; Noor Khan Beg was once the chief of infantry Darya Sarang was once the chief of armoury; Ibrahim Khan and Daulat Khan were prominent in the navy; and Siddi Ibrahim was once the chief of artillery.
Shivaji Maharaj had respect for the Sufi tradition of Islam.[21] Shivaji Maharaj used to pray at the mausoleum of the great Sufi Muslim saint Baba Sharifuddin. He also visited the abode of another great Sufi saint, Shaikh Yacub of the Konkan, and sought his blessings. He called Hazrat Baba of Ratnagiri bahut thorwale bhau, meaning "great elder brother".
His Mavala army's war cry was 'Har Har Mahadev' (Hail Lord Shiva).[6]
He commanded the respect and fealty of the muslims under his command by his fair treatment of his friends as well as enemies.[6]
Kafi Khan, the Mughal historian and Bernier, a French traveler, spoke highly of his religious policy. He also brought back converts like Netaji Palkar and Bajaji in to Hinduism. He prohibited slavery in his kingdom.[6]
Shivaji Maharaj applied a humane and liberal policy to the women of his state.[21] There are many instances in folklore, which describe Shivaji Maharaj's respect for women, irrespective of their religion, nationality, or creed.
Shivaji Maharaj's sentiments of inclusivity and tolerance of other religions can be seen in an admonishing letter to Aurangzeb, in which he wrote:
"Verily, Islam and Hinduism are terms of contrast. They are used by the true Divine Painter for blending the colours and filling in the outlines. If it is a mosque, the call to prayer is chanted in remembrance of him. If it is a temple, the bells are rung in yearning for him alone."[21][22][23]
[edit] Death and succession
It is said that he died due to contracting a disease Bloody Flux,[citation needed] Intestinal anthrax.[citation needed] The funeral ceremony was arranged in Raigad in presence of his son Rajaram, and wife Soyarabai. After Shivaji Maharaj's death, his elder son Sambhaji and Soyarabai , fought for control of the kingdom. After a brief struggle Sambhaji was crowned king. [19]
Ruins of the Raigad Fort, which served as a capital for Maratha Empire.
A few months after Shivaji Maharaj's death, Aurangzeb's son, Prince Akbar, rebelled against his father and was sheltered by Sambhaji.[19][24] Thereafter, in 1681, Aurangzeb, his army, entourage and the royal court moved in mass to the Deccan to wage an all out war for the complete destruction of Maratha power. This was the beginning of the twenty seven year war in which Aurangzeb was not able to achieve much, but then, Sambhaji was deceitfully captured.[19] This put the Marathas kingdom in a disarray and under the overpowering and unrelenting Mughal assault the endangered Maratha capital was forced to be moved and evacuated from Raigad to Jinjee in the south and for a time it seemed that Aurangzeb's objective of stamping out the Maratha threat, once and for all, would be achieved. However, in the following months and years the tide of the war began to turn.[25]
The indomitable Marathas adapted very well to the huge but slow moving Mughal menace and fought Aurangzeb to a stalemate. And towards the end of the second decade the Marathas gathered more strength and began to turn the tide of the war. The Mughal forces were dealt several serious body blows by able Maratha generals like Santaji Ghorpade and Dhanaji Jadhav. They effectively employed lightning fast and highly mobile attacks, tactics initially developed and effectively used by Shivaji Maharaj.[25]
Eventually a broken, defeated Aurangzeb retreated in sickness from the Deccan in 1705. The final Mughal withdrawal came two years later. He had spent most of his remaining resources and manpower trying to defeat the Marathas and ended up significantly weakening the once mighty Mughal Empire. Aurangzeb's heirs never again challenged the Marathas and within eighty years of Shivaji Maharaj's death, they were themselves finally overtaken and utterly dominated by Peshwa Madhav Rao and the two Maratha Sardars, namely Scindia and Holkar.
Sir Jadunath Sarkar, a noted Indian historian and scholar, estimated that about 500,000 Mughal soldiers and 200,000 Marathas died during this decades long epic struggle for dominance of the Indian sub-continent.
It would be pertinent to also quote another noted historian, Bamber Gascoigne, who wrote thus about the significance of the advent and enterprise of Shivaji Maharaj:
"He (Shivaji) taught the modern Hindus to rise to the full stature of their growth. So, when viewed with hindsight through twentieth century prizm, Aurangzeb on the one side and Shivaji on the other come to be seen as key figures in the development of India. What Shivaji began Gandhi could complete …… and what Aurangzeb stood for would lead to the establishment of the separate state of Pakistan." (The Great Moghuls, London: Constable)
[edit] Legacy
Shahaji Bhosle - Shivaji Maharaj's father - was the elder son of Maloji Bhosale of Verul (present day Ellora, Maharastra). Legend has it that Maloji Bhosale was insulted by Lakhuji Jadhavrao, a sardar in Nizamshahi, due his refusal to allow his daughter Jijabai's (Shivaji Maharaj's mother) marriage to his son - Shahaji. This lead Maloji to conquests to obtain a higher stature and an important role under Nizamshahi, something that eventually lead him to achieving the title of Mansabdar (military commander and a imperial administrator). Leveraging this new found fame and power he was able to convince Jadhavrao to give his daughter in marriage to his son Shahaji.
Shahaji continuing the lead of his father played an important role in various Deccan wars. He began service with the young Nizamshah of Ahmednagar and together with Malik Amber, Nizam's minister, he won back most of the district for the Nizamshah from the Moghuls who had gained it during their attack of 1600.[9] Thereafter Lakhuji Jadhav, Shahaji's father in law attacked Shahaji and surrounded him at the Mahuli fort along with Jijabai who was four months pregnant. After seeing no relief coming from Nizam, Shahaji decided to give up the fort and planned his escape.
He sent Jijabai off to the safety of Shivneri fort which was under his control. It was here at Shivneri that Shivaji Maharaj was born. In the meanwhile, Lakhuji and his three sons were murdered in Nizamshah's court while they had come there to join his forces. Unsettled by this incident Shahaji Raje decided to part ways with the Nizamshahi Sultanate and raise the banner of independence and establish an independent kingdom.
After this episode Ahmednagar fell to the Moghul emperor Shah Jahan, and shortly thereafter Shahji as Nizam's General responded by attacking the Mughal garrison and regained control of this region again. In response the Mughals sent a much larger force in 1635 to recover the area back and forced Shahaji to retreat into Mahuli. Adilshah of Bijapur agreed to pay tribute to the Moghuls in return for the authority to rule this region in the year of 1636.[9] Thereafter Shahaji was inducted by Adilshah of Bijapur and was offered a distant jagir - land holdings, at present-day Bangalore, but he was allowed to keep his old land tenures and holdings in Pune.[11][12]
[edit] Foundation of empire
Chhattrapati Shivaji Raje Bhosle, founder of the Maratha Empire.
Shahaji appointed young Shivaji Maharaj, under the care of his mother Jijabai to manage the Pune holdings. A small council of ministers was appointed to assist and train Shivaji Maharaj in administration. This council included Shamrao Nilkanth as Peshwa (Prime Minister), Balkrishna Pant as Muzumdar, Raghunath Ballal as Sabnis, Sonopant as Dabir and Dadoji Konddeo as teacher. Apart from these ministers, military commanders Kanhoji Jedhe and Baji Pasalkar were appointed to train Shivaji Maharaj in martial arts. In 1644, Shahaji had Lal Mahal built in Pune for his wife and his son Shivaji Maharaj. A royal seal in Sanskrit which read, This is the royal seal of Shivaji, son of Shahaji. This royal seal is for the welfare of people. This seal (the rule of the seal) will grow like the new moon grows, was handed to Shivaji Maharaj. Thus Shivaji Maharaj started his career as an independent young prince of a small kingdom on a mission. Shivaji Maharaj used the title of Raja (king) only after Shahaji's death.
Statue of Shivaji Maharaj in Mumbai
His mother made an indelible impression on him with her teachings, with her love for the homeland and its people. Shivaji Maharaj learned much from his father's failed attempts at political independence: his exceptional military capabilities and achievements, his knowledge of Sanskrit, Hindu ethos, patronage of the arts, his war strategies and peacetime diplomacy. He was inspired and informed by his family's vision of independence and freedom.
Furthermore, his mother, having lost her father and three brothers to a treacherous plot hatched by the regional king Nizamshah, was opposed to those who she considered alien rulers, due to their derision and callousness toward the local population. Jijabai thus instilled in Shivaji Maharaj a natural love for self-determination and an aversion to external political domination.
Her piety and commitment to indigenous culture and her recounting of tales from the great Indian epics of Mahabharata and Ramayana molded Shivaji Maharaj's character and helped him to be peerless (as confirmed by even otherwise inimical chroniclers, Khafi Khan) especially in his tolerant attitude towards other religions as well as in his fair and kind treatment of women and non-combatants.
Shahaji's vision, and Jijabai's teachings and motivation, and the able training by statesmen and administrators like Dadoji Kondadev, military commanders such as Gomaji Naik Pansambal and Baji Pasalkar were the main influences which groomed Shivaji Maharaj into a brave and fearless military leader as well as a responsible administrator. Shivaji Maharaj along with his mavla friends took a blood oath to fight for the "Swarajya" at Rohideshwara temple. And young Shivaji Maharaj, energetic and enthusiastic as he was, wasted no time in setting off on a path of freedom and glory.
[edit] Confrontation with the Regional Sultanates
At the age of 17 Shivaji Maharaj carried out his first military action by attacking and capturing Torna Fort of the Bijapur kingdom, in 1645.By 1647 he had captured Kondana and Rajgad forts and had control of much of the southern Pune region.
By 1654 Shivaji Maharaj had captured forts in the Western Ghats and along the Konkan coast. In a bid to sabotage this move of the Marathas under Shivaji Maharaj's able leadership, Adilshah had his father - Shahaji arrested by deceitful means, and he sent one army against Sambhaji, Shivaji Maharaj's elder brother at Bangalore (led by Farradkhan) and another against Shivaji Maharaj at Purandhar (led by Fattekhan). However both Bhosle brothers defeated the invading armies - there is also a possibility that Shivaji Maharaj petitioned Shahjahan to seek his support - securing the release of their father. Thereafter,Afzal Khan, a seasoned commander and an accomplished warrior, was sent to destroy Shivaji Maharaj, in an effort to put down what was seen by Bijapur as a regional revolt.
[edit] Battle of Pratapgarh
Main article: Battle of Pratapgarh
Afzal Khan, after leaving Bijapur desecrated Hindu temples at Tuljapur and at Pandharpur. His plan was to get an emotionally overwrought Shivaji Maharaj to retaliate with his limited military resources, and thus to lead him to easy destruction and that of his budding military power by the numerically larger Bijapur army. However Shivaji Maharaj had other ideas, he sent a letter saying he was not eager to face Afzal Khan and sought some type of understanding. Shivaji Maharaj upon carefully weighing his options, strategically decided to confront and surprise Afzal Khan under the guise of diplomatic negotiations. A meeting was arranged between Afzal Khan and Shivaji Maharaj at the foothills of Fort Pratapgad.[6] Shivaji Maharaj got word that Afzal Khan planned to slay him during the meeting.
Wagh nakh
Shivaji Maharaj, armed himself with weapons, called bichwa (dagger), wagh nakh (tiger claw), and chilkhat (chain-mail armour) prior to the meeting. What transpired during the meeting cannot be ascertained historically, but the popular version says the taller Afzal Khan - under the pretense of a customary hug - gripped Shivaji Maharaj's neck under his left arm and stabbed him with a dagger with his right. However, Shivaji Maharaj's armour and his agility saved him. In retaliation, he attacked Afzal Khan with a wagh nakh and bich'hwa, spilling his blood and entrails on the ground. Thereupon Afzal Khan's bodyguard Sayyed Banda attacked Shivaji Maharaj with swords but Jiva Mahala, Shivaji Maharaj's personal bodyguard fatally struck him down, cutting off one of Sayyed Banda's hands with a Dandpatta(Pata- a medieval weapon). Afzal Khan managed to stumble out of the tent to get help and stumbled into a waiting palanquin, but was attacked and beheaded by Shivaji Maharaj's associate Sambhaji Kavji Kondhalkar, before he could escape or raise an alarm.[6]
In the ensuing battle of Pratapgarh in the dense forests, which was fought on November 30, 1659, Shivaji Maharaj's armies attacked Bijapur's (Afzal Khan's) forces and engaged them in swift flanking maneuvers. Immediately after slaying Afzal Khan, Shivaji Maharaj galloped up the slope towards the fortress with his lieutenants and ordered cannons to be fired. This was a signal to his infantry, which had been strategically placed under the cover of the densely covered valley, to immediately attack Afzal Khan's forces.[6]
Maratha troops under Kanhoji Jedhe attacked 1,500 muskeeters and routed them at the foothills of the fort. Then in a rapid march, a section of Adilshahi forces commanded by Musekhan was attacked. Musekhan was wounded and subsequently fled the field, leaving his soldiers to fend for themselves. Commander Moropant Pingale led the infantry on the left flank of the Adilshahi troops. Adilshah's artillery was made ineffective by his sudden attack at close quarters. Commander Ragho Atre swiftly attacked the cavalry before they were prepared for battle and were almost completely wiped out. The cavalry under Netaji Palkar galloped towards Wai in hot pursuit of retreating Adilshahi forces, who were attempting to join the Adilshahi forces stationed there. The retreating forces of Afzal Khan were engaged in battle and were routed.[6]
This remarkable victory made Shivaji Maharaj a hero of Maratha folklore and a legendary figure among his people. The large quantities of captured weapons, horses, armour and other materials helped to strengthen the nascent and emerging Maratha army. The Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, now identified Shivaji Maharaj as a major threat to the mighty Mughal Empire.
Soon thereafter a decision was made by Shivaji Maharaj and Shahaji, and Netaji Palkar(the chief of the Maratha cavalry) to immediately attack and defeat the Adilshahi kingdom at Bijapur. But, things didn't go as planned and Shahaji's health deteriorated and thus, he had to postpone the plan of attacking Bijapur. However, Netaji Palkar continued attacking and harassing the Adilshahi kingdom.
Subsequently, the Sultan of Bijapur sent an elite Pashtun army comprised mainly of Afghani mercenaries to subdue and defeat Shivaji Maharaj before he could substantially expand his army. In the resulting war, Bijapur's Pashtun army was decimated by the Maratha troops. The intense and bloody battle ended in the unconditional surrender of Bijapuri forces to Shivaji Maharaj.
[edit] Battle of Kolhapur
Main article: Battle of Kolhapur
To counter the loss at Pratapgad and to defeat the newly emerging Maratha power, another army, this time numbering over 10,000, was sent against Shivaji Maharaj, commanded by Bijapur's renowned Abyssinian general Rustamjaman. With cavalry of 5000 Marathas, Shivaji Maharaj attacked them near Kolhapur on December 28, 1659. In a swift movement, Shivaji Maharaj led a full frontal attack at the center of the enemy forces while other two portions of his cavalry attacked the flanks. This battle lasted for several hours and at the end Bijapuri forces were soundly defeated and Rustamjaman ignominiously fled the battlefield.[6] Adilshahi forces lost about 2000 horses and 12 elephants to the Marathas
This victory alarmed the mighty Mughal empire who now derisively called Shivaji Maharaj "Mountain Rat" . Aurangzeb the Mughal emperor was now actively preparing to bring the full might and resources of the Mughal Empire to bear down on the potential Maratha threat.
[edit] Battle of Pavan Khind
Main article: Battle of Vishalgarh
In 1660, Adil Shah, once again sent Siddi Johar an accomplished general to put down Shivaji Maharaj. He ordered his large army north to Kolhapur, Maharashtra to confront and defeat Shivaji Maharaj once and for all. Jasvantrao Dalvi of Palavani and Suryarao Surve of Sringarpur aided Siddi Jauhar to subdue Shivaji Maharaj.[6]
At that time Shivaji Maharaj was camped at the Panhala fort with 3000 Marathas, near present day Kolhapur, on the borders of his dominion. Siddi Johar's army camped near Panhala, cutting off supply routes to the fort. The fort was besieged by Baji Ghorpade and Siddi Masud from the west, Sadat khan and Bhai khan from the north, Rustam Zaman and Bade khan from the east, Siddi Jauhar and Fazal khan from the south. Netaji Palkar, the Commander-in-chief of the Maratha forces was engaged away from Panhala harassing and conquering more and more Adilshahi territory and thus, wasn’t able to come to the help of Shivaji Maharaj. At this point of time, Shaista khan had moved from Baramati to Shirwal.
Panhala was a formidable fort, conquering it was a major challenge. The Adilshahi forces weren’t able to come near the fort. Thus, Siddi Jauhar approached Henry Revington, the British chief at the Rajapur port for the use of long-range and more advanced cannons. Henry decided to help him and started striking Panhala. However, Marathas continued defending Panhala valiantly and did not allow Siddi Jauhar to approach the fort.
On hearing about the tightening siege of Panhala by Siddi Jauhar, Netaji Palkar returned from Bijapur and attacked the Adilshahi forces surrounding Panhala. He tried his best to break the siege but the smaller Maratha force was pushed back by a much larger Adilshahi army.
Thereafter, Shivaji Maharaj, decided to escape to a nearby fort Vishalgad, where he could regroup his soldiers to fight under better conditions. Shivaji Maharaj sent misleading messages to Siddi Johar indicating that he was willing to negotiate and was looking for accommodation, understanding and mercy. With this news Adilshahi soldiers relaxed , and Shivaji Maharaj escaped under the cover of a very stormy night. Johar's soldiers captured a small group of the Marathas apparently including Shivaji Maharaj, only to realize he was a look-alike dressed like Shivaji Maharaj, sent out to create a diversion and facilitate the real king's escape. Siddi Johar's soldiers realized that the imposter was Shivaji Maharaj's barber and that Shivaji Maharaj and his army were headed to Vishalgad.[6]
Sensing that enemy cavalry was fast closing in on them Shivaji Maharaj sought to avoid defeat and capture. Baji Prabhu Deshpande, a brave Sardar along with 300 soldiers, volunteered to fight to the death to hold back the enemy at Ghod Khind ( a mountain pass ) to give Shivaji Maharaj and the rest of the army a chance to reach the safety of Vishaal Gad.[6]
In the ensuing battle of Pavan Khind, Baji Prabhu Deshpande fought relentlessly. He was almost fatally wounded but he held on and continued to attack until he heard the sound of cannon fire from Vishaal Gaad, signalling Shivaji Maharaj had reached safety of the fort. The result was the death of 300 Marathas and 1286 of Adilshah's troops in this fierce battle.[6]
Thereafter a truce was made between Shivaji Maharaj and Adilshahi through Shahaji, acknowledging and formally recognizing the independence of Shivaji Maharaj's Kingdom. Also, as the terms of peace, Panhala Fort was awarded to Siddi Johar.[6]
Ghod Khind (khind = " a narrow mountain pass") was renamed Pavan Khind (Sacred Pass) in honor of Bajiprabhu Deshpande and the soldiers who selflessly fought and died to save their king and country. A small memorial stands even today in the pass in recognition of the heroism of Bajiprabhu and his courageous men.
This remained the situation until the death of Shahaji. Henceforth the Marathas became a formal and recognized power in the Deccan.
[edit] Conquest Of Konkan
An Uzbek general, Kartalab Khan, was sent by Mughal emporer Aurangzeb on a mission to attack and reduce Shivaji Maharaj's forts in the Konkan on 3rd Feb,1661. He left his camp near Pune with 30,000 troops. This time the Mughals did not march openly, as they seeked to surprise Shivaji Maharaj. But instead Shivaji Maharaj took them by surprise at a pass known as 'Umber Khind'(in a dense forest, near present-day Penn), and attacked them from all sides. Marathas hidden in the forest inflicted high casualties on the Mughals. Shivaji Maharaj himself took the forward position with an elite cavalry unit. The other three sides were blocked by Shivaji Maharaj's light infantry.
In a brilliantly co-ordinated movement of light infantry and cavalry, Shivaji Maharaj prevailed over them. A lady commander Raibagan who fought on the Mughal side analyzed the situation and realised that defeat was imminent and advised Kartalab Khan to accept defeat and initiate a compromise with Shivaji Maharaj. Within 4 hours in to the attack the enemy accepted defeat. They surrendered all of their supplies and arms. The Mughal army suffered huge casualties. The defeated army was allowed a safe passage. Kartalab Khan and Raibagan were released with honour in accordance with Shivaji Maharaj's terms and his long standing policy towards women and unarmed civilians.[6]
[edit] Clash with the Mughals
[edit] Shaista Khan
In January, 1660, Aurangzeb sent his maternal uncle Shaista Khan, with a large army to defeat Shivaji Maharaj. He was an experienced commander who had defeated Shahaji in the same region in 1636. His army numbered over 100,000.[6]
Shaista Khan, seized Pune and the nearby fort of Chakan. Although he held Pune for almost a year, he had little further success. He had set up his residence at Lal Mahal, Shivaji Maharaj's palace, in the city of Pune.[6]
Shaista Khan kept the security in Pune very tight. Shivaji Maharaj planned a daring attack on Shaista Khan amidst tight security. In April 1663, a wedding party had obtained special permission for a procession; Shivaji Maharaj planned an attack using the wedding party as cover. The Marathas disguised themselves as the bridegroom's procession and entered Pune. Shivaji Maharaj, having spent much of his youth in Pune, knew his way around the city and his own palace of Lal Mahal.[6] Chimanaji Deshpande-one of the childhood friends of Shivaji Maharaj aided him in this attack offering his services as a personal bodyguard.
According to Babasaheb Purandare, since Mughal army also consisted of Maratha soldiers, it was difficult for someone to distinguish between Shivaji Maharaj's Maratha soldiers and the Maratha soldiers of the Mughal army. Thus, taking advantage of this confusion, Shivaji Maharaj, along with a few of his trusted men, infiltrated the Mughal camp.
After overpowering and slaying the palace guards, the Marathas broke into the mansion by breaking through a wall. Chimanji and Netaji Palkar first entered to provide cover for Shivaji Maharaj. Babaji Deshpande another of Shivaji Maharaj's long time loyal associates offered rear guard protection during the attack. Shivaji Maharaj then personally confronted Shaista Khan in a 'face to face' attack and severed three of his fingers with his sword as he fled through an open window. Shaista Khan narrowly escaped death; lost his son, many of his guards and soldiers in the raid.[6]
Within twenty-four hours of this daring attack, Amir-ul-Umra, Shaista Khan left Pune and headed North towards Agra. An angered Aurangzeb transferred him to distant Bengal as a punishment for bringing embarrassment to the Mughals with his very personal and ignoble defeat in Pune.[4]
[edit] Surat and Mirza Raja Jai Singh
In 1664 Shivaji Maharaj invaded Surat, an important and wealthy Mughal trading city, and looted it to replenish his now depleted treasury and also as a revenge for the capture and looting of Maratha territory by Shaista Khan.[6]
Aurangzeb was enraged and sent Mirza Raja Jai Singh I, with an army numbering well over 100,000 to defeat Shivaji Maharaj. The Mughal forces proved to be unstoppable in the early battles and Shivaji Maharaj decided to come to terms with Aurangzeb. In the treaty of Purander, signed between Shivaji Maharaj and Jai Singh, Shivaji Maharaj agreed to give up 23 of his forts and 400,000 rupees to the Mughals. He also agreed to let his son Sambhaji become a Mughal Sardar and serve the Mughal court of Aurangzeb
[edit] Trip To Agra and Escape
In 1666, Aurangzeb summoned Shīvajī to Agra, along with his six year old son Sambhajī, on the occasion of his fiftieth birthday. Aurangzeb's plan was to send Shivaji Maharaj to Kandahar, modern day Afghanistan to consolidate the Mughal Empire's north-western frontier. However in the court, on May 12, 1666, Aurangzeb made Shīvajī stand behind mansabdārs (military commanders) of his court.[6] Shivaji Maharaj took offense at this seeming insult and stormed out of court and was promptly placed under house arrest, under the watch of Fulād Khān, Kotwal of Agra.
From his spies, Shīvajī learned that Aurangzeb planned to shift him to Rājā Vitthaldās's Haveli and then to possibly kill him or send him to fight in the Afghan frontier. As a result Shīvajī planned his escape. The entire plan of escape displayed Shīvajī's excellent ability to carefully analyze, plan and to flawlessly execute the plan, bringing it to a successful outcome. He feigned almost fatal sickness and requested to send most of his contingent back to the Deccan. Thereafter, on his request, he was allowed to send daily shipments of sweets and gifts to saints, fakirs, and temples in Agra as offerings for getting well.[6]
Shivaji Maharaj also ensured the safe return of the Maratha army (which accompanied him) to Deccan by assuring Aurangzeb that he didn't feel the need to have an army at Aurangzeb's camp and thereby deceived Aurangzeb. After several days and weeks of sending out boxes containing sweets, Shīvajī and his six year old son Sambhaji hid themselves in two of the boxes and managed to escape. Shīvajī and his son fled to the Deccan disguised as sadhus (holy men). After the escape, rumours of Sambhajī's death were intentionally spread by Shīvajī himself in order to deceive the Mughals and to protect Sambhajī.[6]
Dr. Ajit Joshi in a book Agryahun Sutka, concluded that Shīvajī most likely disguised himself as a Brahmin priest after performance of religious rites at the haveli grounds and escaped by mingling in within the departing priestly entourage.[citation needed]
However, according to Mr. Ranjit Desai; author of the Marathi book Shriman Yogi (later translated to English as Shivaji the Great) Shivaji Maharaj disguised himself as one of the servants who used to carry boxes of sweets which were being sent out as gifts.
[edit] Preparing for War
In the years 1667-69, Shīvajī adopted a low profile and began to aggressively build up his army. His army now contained about 40,000 cavalry, backed by 60,000 infantry, a strong navy and a potent artillery. The Mughals had the impression that he was now a spent force and would not cause them any more trouble. But Shīvajī was on a war footing and aimed to directly take on the combined might of the Mughal Empire. In January 1670 Shīvajī launched a major, multi-pronged assault on Mughal garrisons in Maharashtra. Within six months he had regained most of his previously held territory and more.[6] From 1670 to 1674 Shīvajī expanded his kingdom to include the major portions of Maharashtra and far in to the south including parts of modern-day Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
[edit] Battle of Sinhagad
Kondana fort, on the outskirts of Pune, was still under Mughal control. Uday Bhan Rathod, the fort keeper, led an army of about 1500 Rajputs and Mughals for the protection of the fort. On February 4, 1670 Shīvajī deputed one of his most senior and trusted generals, Tanaji Malusare, to head a mission to capture Kondana. At that time, Tanhaji's son's (Raiba's) wedding was due. However, putting his duty for the Maratha land over his family he roared "Aadhi lagn Kondanyacha, mag majhya Raibacha" (First Kondana will be conquered, then Raiba will marry).[6]
The Maratha army under Tanaji Malusare assigned to capture the fort was much smaller than the Mughal army posted at the fort. Tanaji Malusare surveyed the fort and its defenses for some days. The fort was extremely well guarded. One very sheer cliff caught Tanaji's eye. This side was least guarded as one could not possibly imagine climbing the fort from this steep side. Tanaji decided to scale this cliff to enter the fort. He used a monitor lizard (known as a ghorpad in Marathi named "Yeshwanti" with a rope tied around its body for climbing this cliff on a moonless night.[6] Perhaps this was the first time in the history of wars that a lizard was used to climb a fort.[citation needed]
As the advance party reached the top, they threw ropes for others to climb. Meanwhile Tanaji's brother Suryaji moved close to the gates of the fort, namely Kalyān Darwāja, with another 300 Mavalas. The gates were soon opened and once inside, all his soldiers joined Tanaji in the surprise attack.
Tanaji and Uday Bhan came face to face and a fierce fight ensued. Uday Bhan broke Tanaji`s shield with a single blow, Tanaji was not deterred and proceeded to wrap his turban around his left hand for protection and to cover up his wounds, staunch the bleeding, and he continued to fight. Both the warriors were fighting valiantly. In the end, both of them died, being fatally wounded. Seeing their leader mortally wounded and dying before them, the Maratha soldiers started to back-up and retreat, Suryaji and Shelar Mama stepped up and assumed leadership. Shelar Mama an Old Sardar in his seventies faced and challenged Uday Bhan and killed him. Suryaji, then stepped in front and center to rally the troops and lead them back on the offensive. The Marathas now re-commenced their ferocious attack on the Mughal defenders, and focusing on the fight with their hearty war cry 'Har Har Mahadev' (Hail to Lord Shiva) (Marathi: हर हर महादेव), they captured the fort.[6]
When Shīvajī reached the fort after the victory, he was deeply bereaved at the loss of his good friend Tanaji. He sadly commented "Gadh ala puhn sinha gela" (The fort was won but the lion was lost). Thereafter Kondana Fort was renamed Sinhagad (Lion Fort) to honour Tanaji Malusare's bravery and sacrifice.[6]
[edit] Coronation
Shīvajī was formally crowned Chhatrapati (Chief, or King of the Kshatriyas), on June 6, 1674 at Raigad fort, and given the title Kshatriya Kulavantas Sinhasanadheeshwar Chhatrapati Shīvajī Mahārāj. Pandit Gaga Bhatt, a renowned Brahmin from Varanasi, officially presided over the ceremony declaring that Shīvajī's lineage was a bonafide and recognized Kshatriya.[6]
He was bestowed with the Jaanva, (in Hindi the Janeu the sacred thread), with the Vedas and was bathed in an abisheka. Shīvajī had insisted on an Indrabhishek ritual, which had fallen into disuse since the 9th century.
Shīvajī then had the title of "shakkarta" conferred upon him. He started his own calendar. A few days later a second ceremony was carried out, this time according to the Bengal school of Tantricism and presided over by Nischal Puri.
[edit] Southern Expedition
Main article: Dakshin Digvijaya
At the end of 1676, Shivaji Maharaj launched a wave of conquests in southern India with a massive force of 50,000 (30,000 cavalry & 20,000 infantry).[6] He defeated and captured the forts at Vellore and Jinji near Bijapur, Karnataka, modern-day Tamilnadu. He also signed a friendship treaty with the Kutubshah of Golconda. These victories proved quite crucial during future wars. Jinjee served as Maratha capital for 9 years during 27 years of war. However, his main intention was to reconcile with Vyankoji or Ekoji (Shahaji's son from his second wife, who came from the Mohite family) who ruled Thanjavur after Shahaji. They had talks, Vyankoji showed signs of uniting with Shivaji Maharaj but then no concrete result was obtained.[6] (However, both of them weren't enemies and just ruled different kingdoms).
[edit] Rule
Shivaji Maharaj was an able and competent administrator and established a government that included such modern concepts as cabinet (Ashtapradhan mandal), foreign affairs (Dabir) and internal intelligence.[13] Shivaji Maharaj established an effective civil and military administration. He also built a powerful navy and erected new forts like Sindhudurg and strengthened old ones like Vijaydurg on the west coast.[6] The Maratha navy held its own against the British, Portuguese and Dutch[14] till Maratha internal conflict brought their downfall in 1756.
Shivaji Maharaj is well known for his benevolent attitude towards his subjects. He believed that there was a close bond between the state and the citizens. He encouraged all accomplished and competent individuals to participate in the ongoing political/military struggle. He is remembered as a just and welfare-minded king. He brought revolutionary changes in military organisation, fort architecture, society and politics.[6]
He laid the foundations of the modern Marathi identity and infused it with strong martial and moral traditions.
Shivaji Maharaj successfully lead and marshalled his forces to cope and overcome several major enemy invasions of his territories. He was also unceasing and inexorable in expanding his kingdoms boundaries. His success was driven by his fierce and urgent determination to establish a free and independent homeland, and in this goal he was supported by the high level of loyalty, respect and commitment he received from his soldiers, followers and citizens.
He was an innovator and an able commander, he successfully used effective tactics including hit-and-run, strategic expansion of territories and forts, formation of highly mobile light cavalry and infantry units, adaptation of strategic battle plans and formations, whereby he succeeded in out-maneuvering, time and time again, his vastly bigger and determined enemies.
Toward the end of his reign he had built up the Maratha forces to be over one hundred thousand strong. He was able to effectively keep the Mughal forces in check and on the defensive while expanding his kingdom southward to Gingee, Tamil Nadu.[6]
Shivaji Maharaj's kingdom served as a Hindu bulwark against Mughal powers within India. His brilliant strategic and tactical maneuvering on battlefields and his acute management and administrative skills helped him to lay the foundations of the future Maratha empire in India.
[edit] Character
During his long military career and his many campaigns his strong religious and warrior code of ethics, exemplary character and deep seated and uncompromising spiritual values directed him to offer protection to houses of worship, non-combatants, women and children. He always showed respect, defended and protected places of worship of all denominations and religions.
Shivaji Maharaj was once offered as a war booty an extremely beautiful young lady, by an uninformed Maratha captain. She was the daughter-in-law of a defeated Muslim Amir (local ruler) of Kalyan, Maharashtra. Shivaji Maharaj was reported to have told the lady that her beauty was mesmerizing and that if his mother was as beautiful as her, he would have been handsome as well. He told her to go back to her family in peace, unmolested and under his protection. His behaviour, was noted by those around him, to be always of the highest moral caliber. He clearly and unambiguously embodied the virtues and ideals of a true nobleman.[6]
He boldly risked his life, his treasure and his personal well being and that of his family, to openly challenge his immensely larger enemies to defend and achieve freedom and independence for his country. And in that lay the foundations of the greatness of Chhattrapati Shivaji Maharaj, which was based not as much on his successes on or off the battlefields, or on the strength of his arms, or his brilliant strategies or his noble birth but was truly based on his selfless and courageously fierce actions he undertook against his powerful enemies, on behalf of his beloved Vatan (sacred homeland/nation). He unflinchingly defied overwhelming odds stacked against him by the mighty, aggressive and massive Mughal empire and the sultanates, he overcame and succeeded in face of unprecedented level of difficult and inexorable challenges and trials posed by his enemies.[6]
He did not spend any resources on projects designed for self-aggrandizement or vanity, instead he was propeled by his deeply held sense of Dharma (sacred duty) to his people and country which lead him to directly challenge the dangerous, powerful and oppressive enemies (the Sultanates and the Mughals). His legacy is heroism, selflessness, freedom, independence, brotherhood and unwavering courage, and as such he is a great role model for the ages.[6]
Shivaji Maharaj did not believe in being treated as a royalty, in fact he mingled freely with his subjects to spend time with them to be a better leader and a king. It is reported that he enjoyed simple meals of crushed onion and ‘bhakris’ - a type of Indian peasant bread with his foot soldiers (mavlas). His character could be termed as 'down to earth' and while he took his mission with utmost seriousness he did not seemingly consider his own needs to be above his people's welfare or their security.[6]
As a result of this Shivaji Maharaj struck a deep chord with his followers and the citizenary. And the high level of admiration and respect he earned from his followers and subjects sets him apart from most other Indian kings or chieftains in the recorded Indian history. Even today he is venerated in India and especially in the state of Maharashtra with awe and admiration and is viewed as a hero of epic proportions.[6]
[edit] Military, Navy and Forts
M.V. Dhurandhar's painting of Shivaji Maharaj.
Shivaji Maharaj's genius is most evident in his military organisation which lasted till the demise of the Maratha empire. He was one of the pioneers of commando actions, "Ganimi Kava" a term used for such a warfare, (though the term "commando" is modern).[15] Shivaji Maharaj was responsible for a lot of changes in military organization. These include -
A standing army belonging to the state called paga;
All war horses belonged to the state; responsibility for their upkeep rested on the Soveriegn.
Creation of part time soldiers from peasants who worked for eight months in the field and supported four months in war.
Highly mobile and light infantry and cavalry were his innovations and they excelled in commando tactics;
The introduction of a centralized intelligence department, spy system, a potent navy, and regular chain-of-command;
Introduction of field craft viz. Guerrilla warfare, commando actions, swift flanking attacks;
Innovation of weapons and firepower, innovative use of traditional weapons like tiger claw or 'Baghnakh'. 'Vita' was a weapon invented by Shivaji Maharaj;
Militarisation of almost the entire society, including all classes, with the entire peasant population of settlements and villages near forts actively involved in their defence.[6]
Shivaji Maharaj realized the importance of having a secure coastline and protecting the western Konkan coastline from the attacks of Siddi’s fleet.[16][6][17] He had realized the tactical advantage of having a strong navy and decided to purse this idea. Shivaji Maharaj was concerned about the growing dominance of British India naval forces over Indian waters and started building his navy forces to tackle this issue. For this very reason he is also referred to as the “Father of Indian Navy”.[citation needed]
Main article: Shivaji's Forts
Pratap Gad
Shivaji Maharaj constructed a chain of 300 or more forts running over a thousand kilometres across the rugged Western Ghats. Each were placed under three officers of equal status lest a single traitor should deliver it to the enemy. The officers (Sabnis, Havladar, Sar-i-naubat) acted jointly and provided mutual checks balance. Shivaji Maharaj had control of 360 forts when he died.[6]
[edit] Promotion of Sanskrit
The house of Shivaji Maharaj was one of the Indian royal families who were well acquainted with Sanskrit and promoted it. The root can be traced from Shahaji who supported Jayram Pindye and many like him. Shivaji Maharaj's seal was prepared by him.
Shivaji Maharaj continued this trait and developed it further. He named his forts as Sindhdurg, Prachandgarh, Suvarndurg etc. He named Ashta Pradhan (council of ministers) as per Sanskrit nomenclature viz. Nyayadhish, Senapati etc. He got Rajya Vyavahar Kosh (a political treatise) prepared. His Rajpurohit Keshav Pandit was himself a Sanskrit scholar and poet.[18]
After his death, Sambhaji, who was himself a Sanskrit scholar (his verse - Budhbhushanam), continued it. His grandson Shahu spent his entire childhood in Mughal captivity, which affected his taste. But even he showered gifts on learned Brahmins. Serfoji II from the Thanjavur branch of the Bhosle continued the tradition by printing the first book in Marathi Devnagari.[citation needed]
Sambhaji issued one danapatra (donation plaque) which is in Sanskrit composed by himself in which he writes about his father as:
Yavanarambha gritat mlechakshaydiksha: It means - Shivaji had taken a sacred oath and was on mission to defeat invaders
Dillindraman pradhvanspatu: One who has defeated the Mughal Emperor of Delhi
Vijayapuradhishwar prathtarmanya bhujchachayay: One whose help was sought by Adilshahi King of Vijaypur[citation needed]
[edit] Religion
As per legend, the family deity of the Bhosle's, goddess Bhavani presented a divine sword to Shivaji Maharaj.
Shivaji Maharaj made available to Ramdas a fort named Parali Fort to establish his permanent monastery there. The fort was subsequently renamed as "Sajjangad"(Fort of Decent/Holy ones). Shivaji Maharaj and Ramdas swami first met in 1674, Shivaji Maharaj accepting Ramdas swami then as his spiritual guru. Samarth Ramdas offered advise to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the political and strategic issues. Also there are many credible historical references that Sant (Saint) Tukaram was also Spiritual guru Of Shivaji raje.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was a devout Hindu and he respected all religions within the region. Shivaji Maharaj had great respect for Warkari saints like Tukaram and Sufi Muslim pir Shaikh Yacub Baba Avaliya of Konkan.[19]
He also visited Mouni Maharaj temple and Samadhi at Patgaon (Bhudargad Taluka near to Gargoti) in Kolhapur district. Shahaji had donated a huge piece of land to Shaha-Sharif Durgah of Ahmednagar. (The names "Shahaji", the father of Shivaji Maharaj, and "Sarfoji", the uncle of Shivaji Maharaj, are derived in deference to this Shah Sharifji.)
Shivaji Maharaj allowed his subjects freedom of religion and opposed forced conversion.[6][20] The first thing Shivaji Maharaj did after a conquest was to promulgate protection of mosques and Muslim tombs. Shivaji Maharaj's army consisted of a noticeable number of Muslims, as were his commanders: One of his most trusted general in all his campaigns was Haider Ali Kohari; Noor Khan Beg was once the chief of infantry Darya Sarang was once the chief of armoury; Ibrahim Khan and Daulat Khan were prominent in the navy; and Siddi Ibrahim was once the chief of artillery.
Shivaji Maharaj had respect for the Sufi tradition of Islam.[21] Shivaji Maharaj used to pray at the mausoleum of the great Sufi Muslim saint Baba Sharifuddin. He also visited the abode of another great Sufi saint, Shaikh Yacub of the Konkan, and sought his blessings. He called Hazrat Baba of Ratnagiri bahut thorwale bhau, meaning "great elder brother".
His Mavala army's war cry was 'Har Har Mahadev' (Hail Lord Shiva).[6]
He commanded the respect and fealty of the muslims under his command by his fair treatment of his friends as well as enemies.[6]
Kafi Khan, the Mughal historian and Bernier, a French traveler, spoke highly of his religious policy. He also brought back converts like Netaji Palkar and Bajaji in to Hinduism. He prohibited slavery in his kingdom.[6]
Shivaji Maharaj applied a humane and liberal policy to the women of his state.[21] There are many instances in folklore, which describe Shivaji Maharaj's respect for women, irrespective of their religion, nationality, or creed.
Shivaji Maharaj's sentiments of inclusivity and tolerance of other religions can be seen in an admonishing letter to Aurangzeb, in which he wrote:
"Verily, Islam and Hinduism are terms of contrast. They are used by the true Divine Painter for blending the colours and filling in the outlines. If it is a mosque, the call to prayer is chanted in remembrance of him. If it is a temple, the bells are rung in yearning for him alone."[21][22][23]
[edit] Death and succession
It is said that he died due to contracting a disease Bloody Flux,[citation needed] Intestinal anthrax.[citation needed] The funeral ceremony was arranged in Raigad in presence of his son Rajaram, and wife Soyarabai. After Shivaji Maharaj's death, his elder son Sambhaji and Soyarabai , fought for control of the kingdom. After a brief struggle Sambhaji was crowned king. [19]
Ruins of the Raigad Fort, which served as a capital for Maratha Empire.
A few months after Shivaji Maharaj's death, Aurangzeb's son, Prince Akbar, rebelled against his father and was sheltered by Sambhaji.[19][24] Thereafter, in 1681, Aurangzeb, his army, entourage and the royal court moved in mass to the Deccan to wage an all out war for the complete destruction of Maratha power. This was the beginning of the twenty seven year war in which Aurangzeb was not able to achieve much, but then, Sambhaji was deceitfully captured.[19] This put the Marathas kingdom in a disarray and under the overpowering and unrelenting Mughal assault the endangered Maratha capital was forced to be moved and evacuated from Raigad to Jinjee in the south and for a time it seemed that Aurangzeb's objective of stamping out the Maratha threat, once and for all, would be achieved. However, in the following months and years the tide of the war began to turn.[25]
The indomitable Marathas adapted very well to the huge but slow moving Mughal menace and fought Aurangzeb to a stalemate. And towards the end of the second decade the Marathas gathered more strength and began to turn the tide of the war. The Mughal forces were dealt several serious body blows by able Maratha generals like Santaji Ghorpade and Dhanaji Jadhav. They effectively employed lightning fast and highly mobile attacks, tactics initially developed and effectively used by Shivaji Maharaj.[25]
Eventually a broken, defeated Aurangzeb retreated in sickness from the Deccan in 1705. The final Mughal withdrawal came two years later. He had spent most of his remaining resources and manpower trying to defeat the Marathas and ended up significantly weakening the once mighty Mughal Empire. Aurangzeb's heirs never again challenged the Marathas and within eighty years of Shivaji Maharaj's death, they were themselves finally overtaken and utterly dominated by Peshwa Madhav Rao and the two Maratha Sardars, namely Scindia and Holkar.
Sir Jadunath Sarkar, a noted Indian historian and scholar, estimated that about 500,000 Mughal soldiers and 200,000 Marathas died during this decades long epic struggle for dominance of the Indian sub-continent.
It would be pertinent to also quote another noted historian, Bamber Gascoigne, who wrote thus about the significance of the advent and enterprise of Shivaji Maharaj:
"He (Shivaji) taught the modern Hindus to rise to the full stature of their growth. So, when viewed with hindsight through twentieth century prizm, Aurangzeb on the one side and Shivaji on the other come to be seen as key figures in the development of India. What Shivaji began Gandhi could complete …… and what Aurangzeb stood for would lead to the establishment of the separate state of Pakistan." (The Great Moghuls, London: Constable)
[edit] Legacy
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