Unknown Facts About Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was a visionary and brave ruler known for guerrilla warfare, strong navy, women’s rights, and establishing Hindavi Swaraj.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was a visionary leader and a brilliant military strategist. He is known for using guerrilla warfare, establishing Hindavi Swaraj, and building a strong naval force. He was not only a brave warrior but also a fair and progressive ruler. He respected all religions, supported women’s rights, and believed in protecting nature and the environment.
Many people believe that his name was derived from Lord Shiva. However, it is said that his name actually came from Goddess Shivai, whose temple is located at Shivneri Fort, where he was born.
History mentions that Shivaji Maharaj used three famous swords – Bhavani, Tulja and Jagdamba. It is believed that Goddess Tulja Bhavani blessed him with a sword. One of his ceremonial swords, Jagdamba, was later gifted to Prince Edward and is now kept in a museum in London.
Shivaji Maharaj was a strong supporter of women’s rights. During his rule, anyone who disrespected women was given strict punishment. His soldiers were not allowed to harm or insult women, and they were strictly forbidden from keeping women as prisoners.
He is also known as the Father of the Indian Navy. He understood the importance of sea power at an early stage. To protect his kingdom from the Portuguese, Dutch, British and sea pirates, he built strong naval forts like Sindhudurg Fort and other coastal forts. He developed different types of warships to strengthen his navy.
In 1674, Shivaji Maharaj introduced gold ‘hon’ and copper ‘shivrai’ coins, which were used for many years. He had eight wives, and his first wife was Saibai. He had two sons, including Sambhaji Maharaj and Rajaram, and six daughters.
Shivaji Maharaj inherited around 2,000 soldiers from his father Shahaji Raje and later expanded his army to about 10,000 soldiers. He captured more than 240 forts during his lifetime. He is known as a pioneer of guerrilla warfare, which included surprise attacks, ambushes and smart use of geography. Because of his tactics, enemy generals even called him the “Mountain Rat.” His strategy helped him win many battles, even when his army was smaller.
He is also called “Jaanta Raja,” which means “the king who understands his people.” Even his enemies are believed to have praised his bravery and leadership. Shivaji Maharaj remains one of the greatest and most respected rulers in Indian history.
