The Legend – Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

In Maharashtra and across Bharat, Chhatrapati Shivajiraje Bhosle, the founder and ideal ruler of the Hindavi Empire, is revered as an all-inclusive, compassionate Monarch. He clashed with the regimes of Adilshah of Vijapur, Nizam of Ahmednagar, and even the most powerful Mughal Empire at the time, using the guerrilla war system, which was suitable for mountainous regions in Maharashtra, and sowed the seeds of the Maratha Empire.

Despite the fact that the Adilshah, Nizam, and Mughal empires were dominant, they were completely reliant on local chiefs (sardars) – and killedars (Officers in-charge of Forts). The people under the control of these sardars and killedars were subjected to a great deal of distress and injustice. Shivaji Maharaj rid them of their tyranny and set an example of excellent governance for future kings to obey.

When we examine the personality and regime of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, we learn a lot. Bravery, might, physical capacity, idealism, organising abilities, strict and expected governance, diplomacy, bravery, foresight, and so on defined his personality.

Facts about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

1. During his childhood and youth, he worked very hard to develop his physical strength.

2. Studied various weapons to see which were the most effective.

3. Gathered simple and sincere mavlas and instilled faith and idealism in them.

4. After taking an oath, he committed himself completely to the establishment of Hindavi Swarajya. Conquered major forts and built new ones.

5. He vanquished several foes by cleverly using the formula of fighting at the right time and signing a treaty if the need arose. Within Swarajya, he successfully combated treason, deception, and enmity.

6. Attacked with a deft use of the guerrilla tactic.

7. Proper provisions were made for common citizens, farmers, brave troops, religious sites, and a variety of other items.

8. Most significantly, he created an Ashtapradhan Mandal (cabinet of eight ministers) to oversee Hindavi Swarajya’s overall governance.

9. He took Rajbhasha’s development very seriously and patronised a variety of arts.

10. Attempted to reawaken in the minds of downtrodden, depressed subjects the spirit of self-respect, might, and devotion to Swarajya.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was responsible for all of this within fifty years in his entire lifetime.

Self-respect and confidence in Swarajya, which were sparked in the 17th century, continue to inspire Maharashtra today.