Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj: Learn about his Early Life, Death and Legacy

Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of the legendary Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, was a fearless warrior and a devoted protector of Hindu Dharma. Despite being brutally tortured by Aurangzeb for over 40 days, he never surrendered. His valiant efforts against the Mughals and the Portuguese significantly impacted India's history, ensuring the establishment of Hindu rule in North India. Sambhaji Maharaj was eventually brutal on 11 March 1689 at the age of 31 in Tulapur, at the bank of the Bhima River near Pune. On 11 March 1689, we lost a great young emperor who was not only against Aurangzeb but also devoted to Hindu Reconversion.

Early Life

• He lost his mother at the age of 2; raised by Jijabai.
• Excelled in warfare, diplomacy, and administration from a young age.
• Married Yesubai in 1666 and had a son, Shahu Maharaj.
• Declared prince of the Maratha Empire in 1674 during Shivaji Maharaj's coronation.
• Led his first battle at Ramnagar at the age of 16.

Estrangement and Reconciliation with Shivaji Maharaj

• Due to political conspiracies, he left the Maratha Empire and briefly joined the Mughal commander Diler Khan.
• His departure deeply saddened Shivaji Maharaj.
• He later reconciled with his father and returned to the Maratha kingdom.

Coronation and Challenges

• After Shivaji Maharaj's death, Soyarabai and her supporters attempted to crown Rajaram instead of Sambhaji Maharaj.
• Hambirrao Mohite, the Supreme Commander, sided with Sambhaji Maharaj.
• He successfully ascended the throne in 1681.

Punishments for Conspirators:

• Annaji Datto Sabnis and other courtiers were trampled by war elephants for their betrayal.

Resistance Against Aurangzeb (1681-1689)

• Fought against the Mughal army of 800,000 soldiers for 9 years.
• Kept Aurangzeb engaged in battles in Maharashtra, preventing his expansion into North India.
• Ensured the safety of Hindu kingdoms in Bundelkhand, Punjab, and Rajasthan.

War with the Mughals

Despite being outnumbered, Marathas held strategic forts and continued guerrilla warfare.

War Against the Portuguese

• Sambhaji Maharaj fought against Portuguese rule in Goa.
• Actively opposed their mass conversions and temple demolitions.
• Prevented further Christianisation of Hindu communities in Goa.

Efforts for Hindu Reconversion

• Focused on reconverting Hindus who had been forcefully converted by the Portuguese and Mughals.
• Encouraged the preservation of Hindu culture, traditions, and temples.

Capture and Execution (1689)

• Betrayed by Ganoji Shirke, a relative, and captured by the Mughals.
• Tortured for over 40 days but refused to convert to Islam.
• Executed on 11 March 1689 by Aurangzeb for his unwavering faith and resistance.

Impact of Sambhaji Maharaj’s Execution

• Marathas intensified their resistance against the Mughals.
• His wife, Yesubai, and son, Shahu Maharaj, were imprisoned.
• The war continued under Rajaram Maharaj and later Maharani Tarabai.
• Aurangzeb remained stuck in Deccan for 27 years, ultimately leading to the decline of Mughal power.

Legacy of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj

Memorials and Tributes

• Statues & Forts:
• Statue at Purandar Fort.
• Many forts are named after him across Maharashtra.
• Literature & Cultural Depictions:
• Powada (ballad) by Shahir Yogesh: "Sher Shiva Ka Chhava Tha"

Conclusion

Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was not just a warrior but a symbol of unwavering courage and devotion to Dharma. His resistance against the Mughals ensured that India remained free from Aurangzeb’s tyranny for decades. His sacrifice continues to inspire generations to stand for righteousness and justice.

"A hero’s legacy is not just in battles won but in the courage that inspires generations."