Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj: The Brave Warrior and Second Maratha Emperor

Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj: The Brave Warrior and Second Maratha Emperor

Introduction

Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the eldest son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, was one of the most courageous and strategic rulers in Indian history. Born on 14 May 1657, he took over the Maratha Empire after Shivaji’s passing and ruled from 1681 to 1689. His short yet eventful reign was marked by relentless battles against the Mughal Empire, Portuguese, and Siddis.

Despite being captured and brutally executed by Aurangzeb, Sambhaji’s unwavering spirit of resistance and sacrifice made him a legendary figure in Maratha and Indian history.

Early Life and Education

• Born at Purandar Fort, Sambhaji was trained in warfare, diplomacy, and administration from a young age.
• He was highly educated, fluent in Sanskrit, Persian, Marathi, and other languages.
• He was sent to Mirza Raje Jai Singh’s court (a Mughal ally) as part of a peace treaty, where he learned about Mughal strategies.

Rise to the Throne

After Shivaji Maharaj’s death in 1680, a struggle for succession emerged between Sambhaji and his stepmother, Soyarabai, who wanted her son Rajaram to be king. However, Sambhaji successfully took control and was crowned as the second Chhatrapati of the Maratha Empire in 1681.

Major Battles and Military Campaigns

Sambhaji continued his father’s vision of Swarajya and fought against several powerful enemies.

1. Resistance Against Aurangzeb (1681-1689)

• Aurangzeb, the Mughal emperor, aimed to destroy the Maratha Empire.
• Sambhaji led several guerrilla warfare attacks and defended forts successfully.
• He raided Burhanpur, a major Mughal city, in 1681, proving his military strength.

2. Battles Against the Portuguese

• Sambhaji launched attacks on the Portuguese territories of Goa, stopping their religious conversions and protecting Hindus.

3. War with Siddis of Janjira

• The Siddis, allies of the Mughals, controlled the coastal fortress of Janjira.
• Sambhaji tried to conquer Janjira but faced heavy resistance.

Administrative Policies and Governance

1. Religious Tolerance

Unlike the Mughals, Sambhaji followed a policy of religious tolerance and protected Hindu temples from destruction.

2. Strong Navy

He expanded the Maratha Navy, ensuring the security of Konkan and the Arabian Sea from Portuguese and Mughal threats.

3. Support for Literature

Sambhaji wrote the Sanskrit book “Budhbhushanam”, showcasing his intellectual capabilities.

Capture and Martyrdom (1689)

• In 1689, Sambhaji was betrayed by Ganoji Shirke, one of his own relatives, and captured by Aurangzeb’s army at Sangameshwar.
• He was tortured for weeks, but refused to convert to Islam.
• On 11 March 1689, he was brutally executed, but he remained defiant and loyal to the Hindu faith and Maratha cause.
• His sacrifice inspired future Maratha leaders, including his younger brother Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj.

Sambhaji Maharaj’s Legacy

• His bravery and sacrifice are honored in Maharashtra and across India.
• Hindavi Swarajya continued to grow, ultimately leading to the fall of the Mughal Empire.
• He is remembered as the Dharma Veer (Protector of Dharma) for his resistance against Aurangzeb.

Conclusion

Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was not only a brave warrior but also an intelligent and strategic leader. His short yet impactful rule defied the mighty Mughal empire and laid the foundation for the Marathas' ultimate victory. Even in death, his unwavering spirit of Swarajya and Hindu Dharma continues to inspire millions.