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Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

 

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

Introduction

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is one of India's greatest warrior kings and the founder of the Maratha Empire. His remarkable leadership, military strategies, and governance policies laid the foundation for Hindavi Swarajya (self-rule). The nation celebrates his 395th birth anniversary on February 19, 2025.

Early Life and Background

  • Birth: February 19, 1630
  • Place: Shivneri Fort, Pune, Maharashtra
  • Father: Shahaji Bhonsle (a prominent Maratha general)
  • Mother: Jijabai (a strong influence in his upbringing)
  • Mentors:
    • Dadoji Kondadev – Trained him in administration and warfare
    • Jijabai – Instilled ethics, governance, and a vision for self-rule

Coronation and Establishment of the Maratha Empire

  • Shivaji Maharaj was crowned Chhatrapati on June 6, 1674, at Raigad Fort.
  • He declared independence from Mughal and Deccan Sultanates and established Hindavi Swarajya.

Military Innovations and Warfare

Shivaji Maharaj revolutionized Indian warfare with Guerrilla Warfare (Ganimi Kawa) tactics, allowing him to defeat larger armies. His strategic warfare included:

  • Surprise attacks and quick retreats
  • Use of hilly terrain to his advantage
  • Naval expansion to protect coastal territories

Naval and Fortification Strategies

  • First Indian ruler to establish a strong navy to protect the western coast.
  • Constructed Sindhudurg and Vijaydurg, India's first naval forts.
  • Controlled over 370 forts, including Torna, Raigad, Pratapgad, and Sinhagad.

Administrative Reforms and Governance

Shivaji Maharaj was not just a warrior but also an excellent administrator. His reforms included:

  1. Ashta Pradhan Mandal – A council of eight ministers handling different departments of governance.
  2. Progressive revenue system – Introduced the Kathi and Chauth system, ensuring financial stability.
  3. Religious tolerance – Employed Muslims, Europeans, and people from all castes in administration.
  4. Justice and welfare policies – Focused on farmers' welfare, women’s safety, and efficient tax collection.

Major Battles and Military Expeditions

  1. Battle of Pratapgad (1659) – Defeated Afzal Khan of the Bijapur Sultanate.
  2. Battle of Pavan Khind (1660) – Baji Prabhu Deshpande sacrificed his life to ensure Shivaji’s safe escape.
  3. Battle of Purandar (1665) – Signed a treaty with Mirza Jai Singh of the Mughal Empire.
  4. Escape from Agra (1666) – Outwitted Aurangzeb’s imprisonment and returned to Swarajya.
  5. Battle of Sinhagad (1670) – Recaptured Sinhagad Fort, with Tanaji Malusare’s sacrifice.
  6. Southern Conquests (1677–80) – Expanded into Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, defeating Adilshah and Golconda.

Legacy of Shivaji Maharaj

  • He remains an icon of valor, patriotism, and governance.
  • His naval vision was ahead of its time, making him the Father of the Indian Navy.
  • He laid the foundation for the Maratha Empire, which later challenged the Mughal dominance in India.

Conclusion

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s leadership, military tactics, and administrative skills continue to inspire generations. His vision of Swarajya (self-rule), secular governance, and military strength played a crucial role in shaping India's history.

MCQs for UPSC CSE (Prelims)

1. When was Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj born?

A) April 3, 1627
B) February 19, 1630
C) June 6, 1674
D) December 18, 1645

Answer: B) February 19, 1630

2. Where was Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj crowned as king?

A) Pratapgad Fort
B) Shivneri Fort
C) Raigad Fort
D) Torna Fort

Answer: C) Raigad Fort

3. Which naval forts were built by Shivaji Maharaj?

A) Pratapgad and Purandar
B) Sinhagad and Raigad
C) Sindhudurg and Vijaydurg
D) Daulatabad and Golconda

Answer: C) Sindhudurg and Vijaydurg

4. What was the name of the military tactic introduced by Shivaji Maharaj?

A) Trench Warfare
B) Blitzkrieg
C) Guerrilla Warfare (Ganimi Kawa)
D) Elephant Charge

Answer: C) Guerrilla Warfare (Ganimi Kawa)

5. Which Mughal emperor imprisoned Shivaji at Agra?

A) Akbar
B) Jahangir
C) Aurangzeb
D) Shah Jahan

Answer: C) Aurangzeb

6. Which battle led to the legendary sacrifice of Baji Prabhu Deshpande?

A) Battle of Pratapgad
B) Battle of Sinhagad
C) Battle of Pavan Khind
D) Battle of Raigarh

Answer: C) Battle of Pavan Khind

7. What was the administrative council set up by Shivaji called?

A) Navaratnas
B) Ashta Pradhan Mandal
C) Panchayat Samiti
D) Sabha Mandal

Answer: B) Ashta Pradhan Mandal

8. What was the primary revenue system introduced by Shivaji Maharaj?

A) Ryotwari System
B) Permanent Settlement
C) Kathi & Chauth System
D) Zamindari System

Answer: C) Kathi & Chauth System

9. Who did Shivaji Maharaj defeat in the Battle of Pratapgad?

A) Mirza Jai Singh
B) Afzal Khan
C) Shaista Khan
D) Baji Rao I

Answer: B) Afzal Khan

10. Which region did Shivaji Maharaj expand into during his Southern Conquests?

A) Gujarat and Rajasthan
B) Punjab and Kashmir
C) Tamil Nadu and Karnataka
D) Bihar and Bengal

Answer: C) Tamil Nadu and Karnataka

Mains Question for UPSC CSE

Q. Discuss the military and administrative contributions of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. How did his policies shape the Maratha Empire and influence Indian history?

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