0Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (1630–1680) was one of the greatest rulers and nation-builders in Indian history. He founded the Maratha Empire, established a strong administrative system, and laid the foundation for Hindu self-rule in medieval India. His reign marked the beginning of a powerful indigenous resistance against Mughal imperialism and other foreign powers.
Early Life and Background
- Shivaji was born in 1630 at the Shivneri Fort near Junnar (Pune district).
- His father, Shahaji Bhosale, was a Maratha general in the service of the Deccan Sultanates (Bijapur).
- His mother, Jijabai, was deeply religious and instilled in him the values of dharma and courage.
- His mentor, Dadaji Konddev, guided him in administration and warfare.
- From a young age, Shivaji showed keen interest in politics, military strategy, and fort-building.
Foundation of Maratha Power
- Shivaji began his political career by capturing Torna Fort (1646), marking the beginning of Maratha expansion.
- He gradually seized key forts like Purandar, Kondana (Sinhagad), and Rajgad, laying the groundwork for an independent kingdom.
- His strategy emphasized guerrilla warfare, local knowledge, and the use of terrain to defeat stronger enemies — a method later known as “Ganimi Kava.”
Conflict with Bijapur and the Mughals
- The Bijapur Sultanate initially viewed Shivaji as a rebel. In 1659, Bijapur sent Afzal Khan to subdue him. Shivaji famously killed Afzal Khan at Pratapgad Fort, marking a major victory.
- This victory enhanced Shivaji’s prestige and inspired the Maratha people.
- The Mughals under Aurangzeb saw his growing power as a threat.
- In 1664, Shivaji raided Surat, one of the richest Mughal ports, displaying his strategic boldness.
- The Mughals responded by sending Shaista Khan, whom Shivaji attacked successfully in 1663 at Pune.
Treaty of Purandar (1665) and Escape from Agra (1666)
- Mughal general Raja Jai Singh of Amber defeated Shivaji and forced him to sign the Treaty of Purandar (1665).
- Shivaji agreed to surrender 23 forts and accept Mughal suzerainty.
- He visited Aurangzeb’s court in Agra (1666) but was insulted and detained.
- Shivaji made a daring escape from Agra and returned to the Deccan, reorganizing his power.
Coronation and Administration
- In 1674, Shivaji was formally crowned as Chhatrapati at Raigad Fort, symbolizing the foundation of Hindavi Swarajya (self-rule of the people).
- His administration was highly efficient, modeled on ancient Indian systems.
- Ashta Pradhan Council (Eight Ministers):
- Peshwa (Prime Minister) – Moropant Pingle
- Amatya (Finance Minister) – Ramchandra Pant
- Sacheev (Secretary) – Annaji Datto
- Mantri (Intelligence) – Hemad Pant
- Senapati (Commander-in-Chief) – Hambirrao Mohite
- Sumant (Foreign Minister) – Sonopant Dabir
- Nyayadhish (Chief Justice) – Nilo Pant
- Panditrao (Religious Head) – Raghunath Pandit
- Shivaji developed a naval force to protect the western coast from the Siddis, Portuguese, and English. Forts like Sindhudurg and Vijaydurg became naval bases.
- He maintained a disciplined army, ensured fair taxation, and promoted agriculture, trade, and justice.
Religious Policy and Character
- Shivaji was deeply religious but tolerant.
- He respected all faiths and protected mosques and women during wars — a remarkable practice in his era.
- He promoted Marathi and Sanskrit in administration instead of Persian, emphasizing cultural pride.
- His ideal of “Swarajya” combined political freedom with social justice and moral governance.
Death and Legacy
- Shivaji died in 1680 at Raigad Fort, leaving behind a powerful state and a strong legacy.
- His successors, especially Sambhaji and later the Peshwas, expanded the Maratha Empire to cover large parts of India.
- Shivaji is remembered as a symbol of nationalism, courage, and good governance.
Significance for UPSC
- Administrative Reforms: Model of efficient, people-oriented governance.
- Military Strategy: Early example of modern guerrilla warfare.
- Cultural Revival: Promotion of indigenous language and traditions.
- Nation-Building: Foundation for Maratha Confederacy, which later challenged Mughal dominance.
Conclusion:
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was not merely a warrior but a visionary ruler who united fragmented forces into a powerful indigenous polity. His ideals of Swarajya (self-rule), Surajya (good governance), and tolerance continue to inspire modern India and hold immense importance for UPSC preparation in understanding the roots of Indian polity and nationalism
