Published By: Nibandh Vinod
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Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj passed away on 3 April 1680. (Image: Shutterstock)
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is remembered as a progressive and kind ruler who cared for his people and his motherland.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, born on February 19, 1630 in Pune to Jijabai and Shahji Bhonsle, was a legendary figure in Indian history. From a very young age, he received military training and in 1674, he established the Maratha Empire in Western India. Historians remember him as a progressive and kind ruler who cared for his people and his motherland. He passed away on 3 April 1680, after suffering from a severe fever and dysentery. On his 344th death anniversary, let’s take a look at some intriguing facts about this brave Maratha ruler.
10 THINGS YOU MUST KNOW
- While many believe Lord Shiva gave Chhatrapati Shivaji’s name, scholars suggest he was named after Shivai, a local deity.
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj strongly supported women’s rights.
- He established the Ashta Pradhan Mandal, a council of eight officials offering guidance on political and other matters.
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s first naval expedition of Maratha Navy took place in 1665.
- He revived Hindu court, encouraged Marathi and Sanskrit over Persian text.
- Skilled in guerrilla warfare, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj earned the name ‘mountain rat’ for his tactics.
- Shivaji welcomed Muslims into his navy, including Daulat Khan and Ibrahim Khan.
- A small council was responsible for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s education, who taught him reading, writing, horse riding, martial arts and religious studies. A special instructor was provided for military training.
- His knowledge about guerrilla tactics enabled him to quickly capture forts and expand his territory despite leading a small army.
- Shivaji learned war skills from Dadaji Kondadev. He was administrator of the Pune jaagir.
INSPIRING QUOTES
- “The strong manly ones, in life, are those who understand the meaning of the word patience. Patience means restraining one’s inclinations.”
- “Even if there were a sword in the hands of everyone, it is willpower that establishes a government.”
- “It is the prime duty of every citizen to feel that his country is free and to defend its freedom is his duty.”
- “A man becomes great when he plants a tree, knowing that he will never sit in its shade.”
- “Even from enemies, a man can learn. The better a man becomes, the fewer his enemies.”
- “The water of a river doesn’t go stale because it flows.”
- “Treat your men as you would your own beloved sons, and they will follow you into the deepest valley.”
