Homage to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is considered one of the greatest Indian leaders of the 17th century

The founder of Maratha empire in western India, he was born in the Bhonsle Maratha clan in 1630

At that time, Marathas were divided into many small princely states and at a very young age, Shivaji swore to re-unite the Marathas

The visionary leader formed a compact but deadly force of soldiers and rapidly conquered territory including many forts

He is known for his excellent administrative skills and unique military tactics

His guerilla warfare tactics bagged him the title of “Mountain Rat”

He was dead against the caste discrimination and atrocities against women and was secular by heart

Threatened by his valour, Mohammad Adil Shah, emperor of Bijapur kidnapped his father

He was released at the condition of Shivaji not taking up the arms against Bijapur

After his father’s demise, Shivaji restarted the conquests

Shivaji’s victories made Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb send in a large army to capture Shivaji

The Maratha king managed to escape from Mughals in Agra and began consolidating his rule.

Shivaji is known for building dozens of very strong forts, including forts in the sea, almost all of whom survive till today

After six years of uninterrupted reign, Shivaji breathed his last in 1680 at Rajgarh, his capital