Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti: 10 Intriguing Facts About the Esteemed Maratha Monarch
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti: 10 Intriguing Facts About the Esteemed Maratha Monarch
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2025 is a day to honour the life, courage, and leadership of one of India’s greatest warriors.
Shiv Jayanti, or the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj festival, is a public holiday in Maharashtra, India. It takes place on February 19 to honor the birth of Shivaji Maharaj, the first Chhatrapati of the Marathas.
On this occasion, let’s take a look at some of the very interesting yet lesser known facts about the great maratha king.
Shivaji’s name actually comes from a local deity named “Shivai,” not directly from Lord Shiva like many people think.
Shivaji learned a lot of his early lessons from a well-known scholar called Dadaji Konddev, who schooled him in statecraft, military strategies, and how to run an administration.
Shivaji was known to strictly enforce laws protecting women, punishing anyone who dishonored them, and even allowing women to hold important positions in his court.
Recognizing the importance of coastal defense, Shivaji actively built a strong naval fleet, becoming a pioneer in establishing a significant Indian navy.
While famous for his military prowess, Shivaji is particularly renowned for his innovative use of guerrilla warfare tactics, utilizing the terrain and surprise attacks against larger armies.
Shivaji initially drew much of his early support from a group of local hill tribes called “Mavalas” who were skilled fighters and well-versed in the mountainous terrain.
Beyond military achievements, Shivaji established a well-structured administrative system with a unique revenue collection method called “Chauth” and “Sardeshmukhi”.
Shivaji relied heavily on his council of eight ministers, known as the “Ashta Pradhan,” for advice on various matters of governance.
Raigad fort, which Shivaji made his capital, held immense symbolic importance and was a crucial strategic location in his kingdom.
Though a devout Hindu, Shivaji maintained a policy of religious tolerance and included people from different faiths in his administration.
