Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Biography 
Chhatrapati Shivaji was a great warrior and king of the 17th century and a great historic figure of Maratha History. He is the founder of great Maratha Empire and is known for his single stand against the vast Mughal Empire to protect the rights of Hindus. His real name was Shivaji Bhosle and his subjects fondly gave him the title of 'Chatrapati' or the 'Chief of the Kshatriyas'. As an iconic figure of Indian history he has inspired many Indian heroes later to fight for India’s freedom for independence. His stories of bravery are still very popular across the country. His folklore stories are also popular. During his reign Shivaji captured 360 forts, including forts at Kondana, Torana, Murambdev, and Purandar. He also built many new forts.
Shivaji was born in the hill-fort of Shivneri in 1630. He was born to Shahaji Bhosale and Jijabai. His father was a nobleman in the royal court of Bijapur. His mother was very religious and he was very much attached to his mother. He was brought up in a religious background by his mother who taught him both the great epics. He was deeply interested in Hinduism and was closely associated with saints during his life time. He was brave since his childhood. When his father married again and moved to Karnataka, Shivaji lived with his mother in Pune. Dadoji Kondadev Kulkarni was his mentor since then who trained him with martial arts. He was closely associated with Maval comrades. At the age of 12, his father took him to Bangalore where he completed his formal education.
At the age of 14 he started dreaming to build a kingdom. He made his first attack at the age of 20 and captured Torna Fort of the kingdom of Bijapur. Since then he went on to win many battles and captured 360 forts building the vast Maratha Empire. Around the year 1659, Shivaji took over the forts in Western Ghats and reached Konkan coast as well. Shivaji was an efficient ruler and administrator who established foreign affairs known as Dabir, Cabinet known as Ashtapradhan Mandal and also an internal intelligence wing.
Published: N/A
Updated: July 19, 2018
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