On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to Maratha empire founder Chhatrapati Shivaji on his birth anniversary. PM Modi said on X, “His valour and visionary leadership laid the foundation for Swarajya, inspiring generations to uphold the values of courage and justice. He inspires us in building a strong, self-reliant and prosperous India.”
Shivaji Bhosale (1630-1680 C.E.), the Maratha ruler, was born near Junnar in the Pune district to Shahaji Bhosale and Jijabai. He is popularly known as ‘Chhatrapati Shivaji’. The Maharashtra government officially announced February 19, as Shivaji Maharaj’s birth anniversary. Shivaji is considered as the greatest warrior king of the Maratha empire. He is remembered for his skills to preserve ancient Hindu political traditions and court conventions. He promoted Marathi and Sanskrit instead of Persian in his court and administration.
Shivaji Maharaj is known for being a master strategist, he also won several wars against the Mughals and carved out the Maratha empire. He was formally crowned as the ‘Chhatrapati’ or emperor in 1674. Millions of people are still inspired by Shivaji Maharaj’s ideas of bravery, honesty and self-governance, which makes his birth anniversary a momentous time for contemplating his life and values.
Facts about Chhatrapati Shivaji
Shivaji was devoted to his mother Jijabai, who was a deeply religious and courageous woman.
He was interested in religious teachings and regularly sought the company of Hindu saints.
Chhatrapati Shivaji was called the ‘Mountain Rat’ and was widely known for his guerrilla warfare tactics.
Shivaji was known for engaging in both alliances and warfare with the Mughal rulers.
Inspiring quotes by Chhatrapati Shivaji
Do not think of the enemy as weak, but do not also overestimate their strength.
Never bend your head always hold it high.
Even if there were a sword in the hands of everyone, it is willpower that establishes a government.
Freedom is a boon, which everyone has the right to receive.
No need to learn from your own fault. We can learn a lot from others’ mistakes.
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