Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, often remembered as “Chhaava” (meaning a lion’s cub), was one of the most valiant warriors in Indian history. The son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, he carried forward the legacy of the Maratha Empire with immense courage and strategic brilliance. His life was filled with hardships, battles, betrayals, and ultimate sacrifice. This article explores the real story of Sambhaji Maharaj, his leadership, and the impact of his reign on Indian history.
Early Life and Education
Sambhaji Maharaj was born on 14 May 1657 in Purandar Fort, Maharashtra. His father, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, was the founder of the Maratha Empire, and his mother, Saibai, belonged to the prestigious Nimbalkar family. However, Sambhaji’s childhood was filled with hardships as his mother passed away when he was just two years and four months old.
His grandmother, Jijabai, took care of his upbringing and played a significant role in shaping his personality. Recognizing his potential, Shivaji Maharaj ensured that Sambhaji received the best education. He was trained under Keshav Bhatt, a renowned scholar, and learned multiple languages, including Sanskrit, Marathi, Hindi, Persian, and even some European languages.
Apart from his academic brilliance, Sambhaji was also an exceptional warrior. By the age of 8, he had developed deep insights into military strategy and discipline. He even authored ‘Buddha Bhushanam’, a Sanskrit text on political ethics and war strategies, at the age of 14.
Political Challenges and Betrayals
Sambhaji’s early life was marked by significant political challenges. In 1665, the Treaty of Purandar was signed between Shivaji Maharaj and the Mughal Empire, which resulted in Shivaji agreeing to hand over 23 forts to the Mughals. As part of the treaty, Sambhaji was sent to the Mughal court as a mansabdar (military commander) of 5000 troops.
However, in 1666, Shivaji Maharaj and Sambhaji were taken prisoner by Aurangzeb during their visit to the Mughal court in Agra. Despite being held captive, the father-son duo managed to escape in disguise, outwitting the Mughals. Their journey back to Maharashtra was remarkable as they traveled over 2200 km in just 28 days while evading Mughal forces.
Ascension to the Throne
After Shivaji Maharaj’s demise in 1680, a succession crisis emerged. A faction within the court, led by Sambhaji’s stepmother Soyarabai, attempted to place her son, Rajaram, on the throne. At that time, Sambhaji was under house arrest at Panhala Fort due to political conspiracies. However, he managed to escape and successfully seized power in July 1680, becoming the second Chhatrapati of the Maratha Empire.
His rule was immediately challenged by internal betrayals and external threats, particularly from the Mughals, Siddis of Janjira, Portuguese, and the British.
Military Campaigns and Wars
Sambhaji Maharaj was an extraordinary military strategist. His first major campaign as Chhatrapati was against the Mughal stronghold of Burhanpur in 1681. Recognizing its strategic and economic importance, he led a surprise attack that resulted in the Marathas looting the city, devastating Aurangzeb’s treasury, and weakening Mughal control in the Deccan.
However, Aurangzeb retaliated with full force. In 1681, he personally led his imperial army to conquer the Deccan. His main target was the Maratha Empire. For the next nine years, Sambhaji led relentless battles against the Mughals, never allowing Aurangzeb to capture the Maratha heartland.
Apart from fighting the Mughals, Sambhaji also fought the Portuguese in Goa and the Siddis of Janjira, proving his diplomatic and military capabilities.
Capture and Martyrdom
In 1689, due to treachery within his own ranks, Sambhaji Maharaj was captured by the Mughals near Sangameshwar. Aurangzeb, who had failed to defeat Sambhaji in battle, subjected him to brutal torture for weeks in an attempt to make him convert to Islam. However, Sambhaji refused to bow down and continued to defy Aurangzeb till his last breath.
His nails were pulled out, tongue was cut, eyes were gouged out, and finally, his body was dismembered and thrown into the river. Despite the horrific torture, Sambhaji never surrendered, earning him the title of Dharma Veer (Protector of Dharma).
Legacy of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj
Although his life was cut short at the age of 32, Sambhaji Maharaj’s courage and sacrifice became legendary. His death ignited a fierce resistance against the Mughals, leading to their eventual defeat in the Deccan. His brother, Rajaram Maharaj, continued the struggle, and later, Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj and the Peshwas expanded the Maratha Empire, ensuring that Aurangzeb’s dream of conquering the Deccan remained unfulfilled.
Today, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj is remembered as one of the greatest warriors of Indian history. His bravery, resilience, and commitment to his people make him an eternal symbol of patriotism and self-sacrifice.
Conclusion
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s life is a testament to unwavering courage and resistance against tyranny. Despite facing countless betrayals and hardships, he never wavered from his duty to protect the Maratha Empire. His unbreakable spirit and heroic sacrifice continue to inspire generations.
His story is not just a chapter in history; it is a lesson in leadership, patriotism, and resilience. Chhaava—the true lion of India—lives on in the hearts of millions.
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