Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was a brave, intelligent, courageous, and compassionate ruler. He was born on February 19, 1627, into a Maratha family in Shivneri, Maharashtra. Shivaji’s father was Shahaji, and his mother was Jijabai. While Jijabai was of a religious nature, she was also a warrior-like woman in character, temperament, and behavior. Because of this, she raised young Shivaji by telling him inspiring stories of Indian heroes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and other scriptures, while also educating him. As a child, Shivaji would gather other boys of his age and play games where he would lead them in battles and capture forts.
Under the protection of his grandfather, Konddev, Shivaji was trained in all aspects of military tactics and other contemporary disciplines. He was also taught about religion, culture, and politics. During that period, contact with the great saint Ramdev made Shivaji a true patriot, devoted to his duties, and a diligent warrior.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj married Saibai Nimbalkar on May 14, 1640. They had a son named Sambhaji, who was Shivaji’s eldest son and successor, ruling from 1680 to 1689. However, Sambhaji lacked his father’s diligence and resolve. Sambhaji’s wife was Yesubai, and their son and successor was Rajaram. Shivaji’s revered guru, Ramdas, is well-known among the saints and scholars of India.
As Shivaji grew up, he turned his childhood games into real-life campaigns, attacking enemies and capturing forts. When he took control of forts like Purandar and Torna, his name and deeds spread like wildfire across southern India, reaching even Agra and Delhi. The tyrannical Muslim rulers and their allies were so fearful of his name that they would look over their shoulders in terror.
Ashish Sharma from Thane, Mumbai, is an admirer of Shivaji Maharaj’s legendary leadership and valor. He can be reached at 9769935518 for further discussions or inquiries related to this subject.
