Shivaji Bhosale (1630-1680 C.E.)

The Maharashtra government officially celebrates Shiv Jayanti on February 19.

About Shivaji Bhosale (1630-1680 C.E.)

Birth and Early Life

• Birth: Shivaji Maharaj, the first Chhatrapati of the Maratha Empire, was born in the formidable Shivneri Fort in Pune on 19th February 1630 to Shahaji Bhosale (Maratha general serving the Deccan Sultanates) and Jijabai (daughter of Lakhuji Jadhavrao of Sindkhed).
• Early Life: As a young teenager, Shivaji demonstrated military prowess by capturing Torna Fort in 1645, followed by Kondana Fort from the Bijapur Sultanate.
• Different dates: Some historians argue that he was born on February 19, 1630, while others suggest April 6, 1627, as his actual birth date.
• At the time of Shivaji Maharaj’s birth, most of the territory in Maharashtra was under the possession of the Nizamshah of Ahmednagar and the Adilshah of Bijapur.

Conflict with the Mughals

Shivaji Maharaj’s early military tactics brought him into frequent conflict with the Mughal Empire:

• Raids on Mughal territory (1657): Shivaji raided Ahmednagar and Junnar, which led to retaliation from Nasiri Khan of the Mughal Empire.
• Victory over Shaista Khan (1659): Shivaji successfully defeated Shaista Khan, a maternal uncle of Aurangzeb, in Pune.
  • o    Defeat of Afzal Khan: In 1659, Shivaji Maharaj faced Afzal Khan, the Adilshahi general sent to crush him. In a tactical move, Shivaji Maharaj killed Afzal Khan, thereby securing a significant victory and strengthening his position.
• Sacking of Surat (1664): Shivaji’s raid on Surat, a wealthy Mughal trading port, proved a significant blow to the Mughals.
• Treaty of Purandar (1665): After intense battles, Shivaji agreed to surrender several forts to the Mughals and meet Aurangzeb at Agra.

• Expansion of the Maratha Navy: Recognizing the importance of maritime power, Shivaji Maharaj constructed a formidable navy, including warships like Gurab, Galbat, and Pal. This was crucial for safeguarding his coastal territories and ensuring the growth of trade and defense.
  • He also captured several forts like Mahuli, Songad, Karnala, Lohagad, Tunga, Tikona, Visapur, Tala, and Ghosala, in the Konkan.
• Arrest and Escape: In 1666, Shivaji visited Aurangzeb's court at Agra. Insulted by the Mughal Emperor, Shivaji managed a legendary escape, disguised with his son, from Agra. Following this, Shivaji launched a swift military campaign to recover territories from the Mughals, particularly after the Mughals withdrew Sambhaji’s jagir.
• Coronation and Title: On 6th June 1674, Shivaji Maharaj was formally crowned Chhatrapati at Raigad. He assumed several titles including Chhatrapati, Shakakarta, Kshatriya Kulavantas, and Haindava Dharmodhhaarak.
• Death: Shivaji Maharaj passed away on 3rd April 1680, leaving behind a legacy that would dominate the Indian subcontinent for the next century.

Administrative Reforms under Shivaji Maharaj

• Central Administration: Shivaji established a sound administrative system inspired by Deccan reforms.
  • The administration was headed by Shivaji Maharaj, assisted by the Ashtapradhan (eight ministers).
  • Peshwa (Chief Minister) was responsible for the advisory council.
• Revenue Administration: Abolished the Jagirdari System and introduced the Ryotwari System.
  • Revenue officials like Deshmukhs, Deshpandes, and Patils were strictly monitored.
  • Chauth (1/4th of the income) and Sardeshmukhi (10%) were additional income sources.
• Military Administration: Shivaji organized a disciplined military, with infantry, cavalry, and a strong navy. Regular soldiers were paid in cash, while commanders received Jagir grants.

Legacy of Shivaji Maharaj

• Through his military genius and administrative brilliance, Shivaji Maharaj laid the foundation for the Maratha Empire, which became a dominant power in India during the early 18th century.
• His contributions are remembered for their influence on military strategies, governance, and the fight for an independent Maratha state.
• Shivaji is remembered for his military strategy, governance, and vision of Swarajya (self-rule).

Mahatma Jyotirao Phule was the first to initiate the celebration of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti in 1870 after discovering his tomb at Raigad Fort.