India narrates stories of several rulers back in the history who was not just determined by their reign but brave and had their deeds made them enter the good books of their progeny. One of the rulers was Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. He was a Maratha king and was one of the rulers who wanted to throw away from the Mughal Empire completely from India.
Early Life of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Shivaji Bhonsle was the real name of Shivaji Maharaj. People often consider that he had got his name after Lord Shiva, however, his mother named him after the regional goddess Shivai. She had prayed for a son before the Goddess and was blessed with Shivaji. Also, he was given the stature of God not just because of his name but his deeds.
The Stories of Bravery
Chhatrapati, which means “Rulers of Kshatriyas” was entitled upon his name by his subjects because of his bravery and ability to protect them from the outer threats. Chhatrapati Shivaji was born on 19th February 1680 in Shivneri Fort to Maratha regent Shahaji Raje and mother Jijabai. Chhatrapati Shivaji was just 16 years old when he seized the Torna Fort, then there was no looking back. His bravery and thoughts to rule over India were not to establish his control but following the teachings were given by his mother, Jijabai and struggles of his father made Chhatrapati Shivaji become a great warrior to protect his motherland.
Battle of Pratapgarh, which Chhatrapati Shivaji fought against the Mughal Afzal Khan. It was during this battle that got limelight to Shivaji. His skills, planning, and immediate attacks were so brave and instant that after winning this battle Shivaji Maharaj was known to be the bravest Maratha ruler India ever had.
Bravery and Humanity
Along with bravery, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj treated his subjects well. He provided justice to all. During his reign, the women were given all the respect. If anyone was caught treating women violating the women’s right was punished.
Yet again Chhatrapati Shivaji showed his bravery and guerrilla tactics when he came face to face with Aurangzeb. Aurangzeb tried to capture all the forts that came under the rule of Chhatrapati Shivaji, however, failed. There was a pause in the success of Shivaji Maharaj due to the Hindu General Jai Singh sent by the emperor. Shivaji Maharaj then decided to negotiate with Aurangzeb and it is said that Chhatrapati Shivaji escaped from Agra and then was captured by Aurangzeb. However, Shivaji Maharaj came back and with his clever tricks overthrow the ruling power and was successful in fighting against the Mughals.
The Powerful Ruler
Chhatrapati Shivaji’s reign was the story of bravery and power, the ruler who not just focused on winning battles but took care of his subjects as well. It was Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj who set a naval force. He understood the importance of Navy in the army and therefore, stood a force of naval officers along the coastlines.
