Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

• 19 Feb 2025

Source: TH 

The birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was commemorated globally on 19^th February, reflecting his enduring legacy and influence. 

• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj: Born on 19^th February 1630, at Shivneri Fort, Pune was a visionary leader from the Bhonsle clan and the founder of the Maratha Empire, known for resisting the Mughal Empire and striving for self-rule. 
  • Major Battles: Battle of Pratapgad, Battle of Pavan Khind, Sacking of Surat, Battle of Purandar, Battle of Sinhagad, and Battle of Sangamner. 
    • The Wagh nakh, was used by Shivaji to kill Afzal Khan in the 1659 Battle of Pratapgad. 
  • Titles: Chhatrapati, Shakakarta, Kshatriya Kulavantas, and Haindava Dharmodhhaarak. 
  • Administration: Centralized administration with the Ashtapradhan (Council of Eight Ministers), abolished the Jagirdari System, implemented the Ryotwari System, and built a strong naval force for coastal defense. 
    • Shivaji is renowned for his innovative guerrilla warfare tactics, which influenced subsequent rulers and shaped the Maratha Military Landscapes. 
• Other Prominent Maratha Kings: After Shivaji, Sambhaji (1681–1689), Rajaram (1689–1700), and Shahu (1707–1749) fought against the Mughals. Later, the Peshwa administration began with Balaji Vishwanath (1713–1720), who strengthened Maratha governance. 
  • Peshwa Madhavrao I (1761–1772) revived Maratha power after the Third Battle of Panipat (1761). 

 

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