Source: News on Air
Context: The nation commemorates the 395th birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on February 19, 2025.
About Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj:
- Birth and Early Life:
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- Born: February 19, 1630, at Shivneri Fort, Pune, Maharashtra.
- Parents: Shahaji Bhonsle (Maratha general) and Jijabai (influential mentor).
- Teachers: Dadoji Kondadev (military & administration), Jijabai (ethics & governance).
- Coronation and Maratha Empire:
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- Crowned as Chhatrapati: June 6, 1674, at Raigad Fort.
- Established Hindavi Swarajya, declaring independence from Mughal and Deccan Sultanates.
- Achievements & Administrative Policies:
- Military Innovations:
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- Developed Guerrilla Warfare (Ganimi Kawa) tactics, outmanoeuvring the Mughals & Deccan rulers.
- Founded the Indian Navy, securing Konkan & western coast from foreign invasions.
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- Fortifications & Defense:
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- Captured and built over 370 forts, including Torna, Raigad, Pratapgad, and Sinhagad.
- Introduced Naval forts such as Sindhudurg and Vijaydurg for coastal security.
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- Administrative Reforms:
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- Introduced Ashta Pradhan Mandal (Council of Eight Ministers) for governance.
- Established progressive revenue policies (Kathi & Chauth system) ensuring stable economy.
- Promoted religious tolerance and included Muslims, Europeans, and people from all castes in administration.
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- Major Battles & Military Expeditions:
- Battle of Pratapgad (1659): Defeated Afzal Khan (Bijapur Sultanate).
- Battle of Pavan Khind (1660): Defended against Adilshahi forces, legendary sacrifice of Baji Prabhu Deshpande.
- Battle of Purandar (1665): Signed treaty with Mirza Jai Singh (Mughal commander).
- Escape from Agra (1666): Outwitted Aurangzeb’s imprisonment, returning to Swarajya.
- Battle of Sinhagad (1670): Recaptured Sinhagad Fort, valor of Tanaji Malusare.
- Southern Conquests (1677–80): Expanded into Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, defeating Adilshah & Golconda.
