The Life and Legacy of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj: The Fearless Warrior-King

Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj (1657–1689) was the eldest son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the second ruler of the Maratha Empire. Known for his unmatched bravery, intelligence, and resistance against the Mughals, Sambhaji Maharaj played a crucial role in preserving and expanding the Maratha kingdom. Despite facing betrayals and immense hardships, he stood firm against Aurangzeb's oppressive rule and became a symbol of Hindu resistance and valor.

1. Birth and Early Life of Sambhaji Maharaj

Born on May 14, 1657, at Purandar Fort, Sambhaji Maharaj was raised under the watchful guidance of his father, Shivaji Maharaj.
His mother, Saibai, passed away when he was just two years old.
Sambhaji was trained in warfare, administration, and politics from a young age and was known for his sharp intellect and strategic thinking.
He was well-versed in multiple languages, including Sanskrit, Marathi, Persian, and Hindi.

1.1 Education and Training

Shivaji Maharaj ensured that Sambhaji received rigorous military training in horse riding, sword fighting, archery, and hand-to-hand combat.
He was trained in the Akhada tradition, practicing Dand (Hindu push-ups), Bethak (Hindu squats), and Gada (mace) training to develop his physical strength.
Apart from martial arts, he was also taught Dharma Shastra (Hindu scriptures), political strategies, and warfare techniques.

2. The Challenges of Youth and the Mughal Influence

At the age of 9, Sambhaji was sent to live at Aurangzeb's court in Agra as a diplomatic measure after Shivaji Maharaj's treaty with the Mughals. However:

He was treated more like a political prisoner rather than a guest.
He closely observed the Mughal administration and their weaknesses.
After three years, he was successfully brought back to the Maratha Empire.

3. Military Campaigns and Expansion of the Maratha Empire

As a fearless and skilled warrior, Sambhaji led several successful military campaigns.

3.1 Battle of Burhanpur (1681)

One of his most famous campaigns was the attack on Burhanpur, a key Mughal stronghold.
With just 15,000 troops, he launched a lightning strike on the city, looting Mughal treasures worth ₹20 million and retreating without heavy casualties.
This battle shook Aurangzeb, proving that Sambhaji Maharaj was as formidable as his father.

3.2 Resistance Against the Mughals

After Shivaji Maharaj’s death in 1680, Sambhaji ascended the throne at Raigad Fort.
Aurangzeb sent multiple armies to crush the Marathas, but Sambhaji Maharaj fiercely defended the kingdom for over 9 years.
He successfully raided Mughal territories, disrupting their supply chains and forcing them into defensive warfare.

3.3 Battles Against the Portuguese and Siddis

Sambhaji Maharaj led battles against the Portuguese in Goa, preventing them from expanding their colonial rule.
He also attacked the Siddis of Janjira, who were allies of the Mughals.

4. Betrayal and Capture

Despite his military brilliance and heroism, Sambhaji was betrayed by his own men.

4.1 Betrayal by Ganoji Shirke

Ganoji Shirke, his brother-in-law, conspired with the Mughals.
On February 1, 1689, Sambhaji Maharaj was captured near Sangameshwar while on a hunting expedition.
He was taken to Aurangzeb’s court, where he was offered a choice:
Convert to Islam and live, or face a brutal execution.

5. Martyrdom: The Ultimate Sacrifice

Sambhaji Maharaj refused to convert, choosing Dharma over life.
Aurangzeb, infuriated by his defiance, subjected him to one of the most brutal executions in history.

5.1 Torture by the Mughals

For 40 days, Sambhaji Maharaj was tortured mercilessly.
His eyes were gouged out, and his tongue was cut to silence him.
He was flogged, burnt, and his limbs were chopped off gradually.
Even in unbearable pain, he continued chanting 'Har Har Mahadev', refusing to surrender to the Mughals.

5.2 Execution and Legacy

On March 11, 1689, his mutilated body was thrown into the river near Tulapur.
His sacrifice ignited a fire in the hearts of the Marathas.
His younger brother, Rajaram Maharaj, and later Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj continued his legacy, ultimately leading to Maratha domination over the Mughals.

6. Why is Sambhaji Maharaj a Legend?

6.1 Fearless Leadership

He never bowed down to Aurangzeb, even under extreme torture.
His military tactics helped the Maratha Empire survive its toughest period.

6.2 Scholar and Writer

Sambhaji was a poet and scholar, having written ‘Budhbhushanam’ in Sanskrit, focusing on military strategy, administration, and ethics.
He also translated Sanskrit texts into Marathi, ensuring knowledge reached common people.

6.3 Defender of Hindu Dharma

He protected Hindu temples and culture from Aurangzeb’s forced conversions.
His resistance inspired future warriors like Bajirao Peshwa and Shivaji II.

7. Conclusion: The Immortal Warrior

Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was not just a warrior; he was a martyr, a scholar, and a beacon of Hindu resistance. His unshakable will, military prowess, and sacrifice make him one of the greatest heroes in Indian history.

Even today, his name inspires courage, devotion, and pride. His ultimate sacrifice symbolizes the fight for Dharma, justice, and Swarajya.

"Har Har Mahadev!"

Ancient Vs.Modern India

Friday, February 21, 2025