Shivaji Jayanti 2024: 7 facts about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj  was born on 19 February 1630 in Pune's Shivneri Durg to Jijabai and Shahji Bhonsle.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's name originated from a local deity called Shivai rather than Lord Shiva. His deeds earned him godlike grandeur.
 

He built several naval forts at Jaigarh, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg, etc to keep foreign invaders at bay. He also had four warships including Manjuhasm Pals, Gurabs and Gallibats.

Shivaji despite having limited resources, introduced raiding warfare skills when he captured the 'Torna' fort and gave the first major blow to the Sultan of Bijapur at a young age.

The Maratha army was divided into several units and each unit had 25 soldiers. An army of 2,000 men was converted into 10,000 soldiers including Hindus & Muslims.

Shivaji strongly opposed violence or harassment against women and gave strict instructions to the soldiers that no woman should be harmed while raiding.

Shivaji was well versed in the geography of his area, guerrilla tactics, attacking small groups with enemies, etc. and was called a rat of the hills. 

Shivaji was sure that Afzal Khan would attack him. So, he wore armour underneath which stopped Khan’s dagger when the latter embraced Shivaji during a meeting.