Sambhav-2024

• Introduce the topic by giving a brief background of Shivaji and his achievements as the founder of the Maratha kingdom.
• Discuss how Shivaji was a champion political strategist, and give some examples of his military tactics, administrative reforms, and diplomatic skills.
• Discuss how Shivaji was also an enlightened ruler, and give some examples of his religious tolerance, social welfare, and cultural patronage.
• Conclude Suitably.

Introduction

Shivaji (1630-1680) was one of the most remarkable and influential rulers in Indian history, who established the Maratha kingdom in the Deccan region, and challenged the Mughal and the Deccan Sultanates.

• He is widely regarded as a national hero and a symbol of Hindu resistance and self-rule. He was not only a brilliant military leader and a visionary statesman, but also a benevolent and progressive ruler, who cared for the welfare and dignity of his subjects.

Body

• Shivaji was a champion political strategist, who devised and executed various military tactics and strategies to expand and defend his kingdom.
  • He used guerrilla warfare, surprise attacks, and swift raids to overcome the superior forces of his enemies.
  • He also built and captured many forts, and formed a formidable navy, to secure his territory and trade.
  • He reformed and modernized his army, and introduced a system of revenue collection and intelligence.
  • He also maintained cordial relations with other powers, such as the English, the Portuguese, and the Rajputs, and skillfully balanced his alliances and rivalries.
• Shivaji was also an enlightened ruler, who respected and protected the diversity and rights of his people.
  • He granted religious freedom and equality to all and did not discriminate or persecute anyone on the basis of faith.
  • He abolished unjust taxes and practices, such as jiziya and suttee, and promoted education and justice.
  • He also undertook various public works, such as building roads, bridges, wells, and temples, and providing relief and assistance to the poor and the needy.
  • He patronized art and literature and encouraged the use of Marathi and Sanskrit languages.
  • He also revived the ancient Hindu traditions and values and inspired a sense of pride and patriotism among his people.

Conclusion

Shivaji was not merely a champion political strategist, but also an enlightened ruler, who contributed to the development, security, and integration of his kingdom and his people. He was a visionary and a reformer, who laid the foundation of a strong and prosperous Maratha empire, and a role model and a legend, who influenced the generations of Indians to come.