- Shivaji Bhonsle also known as “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj” was the Founder of the Maratha Empire in western India.
- He is considered as one of the greatest warriors in Indian history and a leader of the Bhakti movement.
- Shivaji was born in the hill-fort of Shivneri, near the city of Junnar in what is now Pune district on 19th February 1630.
- His father Shahaji Bhonsle was a Maratha general who served the Deccan Sultanates.
- His mother Jijabai was a religious and strong-willed woman who was determined to make sure that her son received a good education.
- Under the guidance of his mother,Shivaji was trained in religion,martial arts and governance.
- Shivaji’s early life was spent in the conquest of nearby hill-forts and small territories.
- After the death of his father in 1664, Shivaji assumed full control of the Maratha kingdom.
- He expanded his kingdom by conquering the Adilshahi and Mughal territories in the Deccan region.
- He was a skilled military planner and a great administrator.
- He formed an efficient and progressive civil rule with the help of well-defined and efficient administrative systems.
- Shivaji was a devout Hindu and was known for his religious tolerance.
- He was also a sharp diplomat who developed a network of connections with powerful Hindu and Muslim rulers.
- He was a great fan of the arts and literature. He financially supported the production of several Hindu epics such as the Mahabharata,Ramayana and Bhagavata Purana.
- He died on 3rd April 1680 in the town of Raigad.
- He was succeeded by his son “Sambhaji Bhonsle”.
- His legacy of military achievements and administrative reforms continues to be remembered and celebrated in India today.
shiva,shivaaji.shivji,sivaji