Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, also known as Sambhaji Bhosale, was the eldest son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire in western India. He was born in 1657 in Purandar fort to Shivaji and his first wife Saibai. Unfortunately, Saibai passed away when Sambhaji was only two years old and he was then raised by his paternal grandmother Jijabai.
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj (1657 - 1689)
Also Read: Britain and Europe in the 19th Century
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was the second ruler of the Maratha Empire, succeeding his father, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. He ruled from 1680 until his death in 1689. During his reign, the empire faced several challenges, including severe drought, invasions by foreign powers, and conflicts with other Indian kingdoms. Despite these challenges, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was able to maintain the strength and expansion of the Maratha Empire.
Early Training and Education
Sambhaji's early education was in the care of his mother and he was trained in military tactics and administration by his father. He was also a proficient warrior and an able commander, participating in several battles alongside his father. At the age of nine, Sambhaji was sent to live with Raja Jai Singh I of Amber as a political hostage to ensure compliance of the Treaty of Purandar that Shivaji had signed with the Mughals.
During this period, Sambhaji was trained in the courtly manners, the art of diplomacy, and the Mughal military system. He also gained valuable experience in warfare by serving under the Mughal viceroy in Aurangabad, Prince Mu'azzam. He was able to prove his worth as a skilled commander and was granted territory in Berar for revenue collection. He also fought alongside the Mughals against the Sultanate of Bijapur.
Marriage
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was married to Jivubai, also known as Yesubai, who was the daughter of a Sardar (commander) named Pilajirao Shirke. The marriage was arranged by his father, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, to strengthen the alliance between the Marathas and the Shirke family.
Jivubai was a cultured and educated woman and was known for her intelligence and beauty. She was a devoted wife to Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, and they had a strong and loving relationship. She was also a devoted mother to their children.
Jivubai was also known for her political acumen, and she played an active role in the politics of the Maratha Empire. She was a trusted advisor to her husband and was known to have provided valuable counsel to him on various matters.
During Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's capture and execution by Aurangzeb, Jivubai, who was pregnant at that time, was also captured and kept in detention. However, she was later released and lived the rest of her life with honor and respect.
In summary, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was married to Jivubai, who was the daughter of a Sardar named Pilajirao Shirke. The marriage was arranged by his father to strengthen the alliance between the Marathas and the Shirke family.
Political Turmoil
Sambhaji's early life was marked by political turmoil and he was trained to navigate the complex political landscape of the time. He was trained to be a skilled warrior, statesman and an able administrator, which served him well in his later years as the Chhatrapati of the Maratha Empire. He was a true heir to his father's legacy and helped to further expand the Maratha Empire and strengthen its military and administrative systems.
Ascension to the Throne
In 1674, at the age of 17, Sambhaji was crowned as the Chhatrapati (king) of the Maratha Kingdom after his father's death. He was the eldest son of Shivaji, and was chosen as the heir to the throne. His ascension to the throne was a smooth transition of power, and he was able to maintain the stability and expansion of the empire that his father had built. He was recognized as the leader and the ruler by the Maratha court, army, and people.
The Maratha Empire was already a formidable force in Indian politics and society during his father's reign, and Sambhaji Maharaj was able to continue the legacy of his father and make it even stronger. He was able to maintain and expand the territory, economy, and military power of the empire, and cemented the Maratha's position as a major player in Indian politics and society.
However, his rule was marked by several challenges, including conflicts with the Mughal Empire and internal strife within his kingdom. Despite these challenges, he was able to expand the Maratha Empire and strengthen its military and administrative systems.
Sambhaji's Reign
During his reign, Sambhaji had to face several conflicts with the Mughal Empire and other neighboring powers, such as the Siddi's, Mysore, and the Portuguese in Goa. He had to deal with internal strife and rebellion within his kingdom as well. Despite these challenges, he was able to expand the Maratha Empire and strengthen its military and administrative systems. He also made significant contributions to the cultural and literary heritage of the Maratha Empire.
Sambhaji's military campaigns were characterized by his use of guerrilla tactics and his ability to outmaneuver the Mughal armies. He was able to capture several key forts and territories from the Mughals, including the fort of Panhala, which was considered to be one of the most strategically important forts in the region. He was also able to defeat the Mughals in several key battles, such as the Battle of Burhanpur, where he inflicted a crushing defeat on the Mughal army.
In addition to his military achievements, Sambhaji was also an able administrator. He made significant contributions to the administrative and financial systems of the Maratha Empire. He was able to centralize the administration and improve the revenue collection system, which helped to strengthen the economy of the empire.
Sambhaji was also a patron of arts and culture, and he encouraged the development of literature, music, and the arts during his reign. He was also a skilled poet and musician himself and his works continue to be celebrated in Maratha literature and culture.
Despite his many achievements, Sambhaji's reign was not without its challenges. He had to deal with several rivals who sought to challenge his rule and he was able to effectively deal with them. He was a skilled politician and a shrewd statesman, who was able to navigate the complex political landscape of the time.
Konkan Invasion
In 1683, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj led an invasion of the Konkan region, which was controlled by the Siddi's, a powerful Muslim dynasty. The invasion was likely an attempt by Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj to expand the territory of the Maratha Empire and gain control over the wealthy and strategically important Konkan region.
The Maratha army, under Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's leadership, was able to capture several key fortresses and gain control of the region. The Konkan invasion was a significant military victory for the Maratha Empire and it helped to solidify the empire's control over the western coast of India.
The Konkan region was an important source of revenue for the Maratha Empire. The region was known for its fertile land, and it produced a variety of crops such as rice, millet, and fruits. In addition, the Konkan region was a major center of trade and commerce, with a thriving port at Janjira, which was a major entry point for trade and commerce between the Maratha Empire and the rest of the world.
Mysore Invasion
The Mysore invasion was a significant event during Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's reign as the second ruler of the Maratha Empire. The invasion was led by the Mysore ruler, Raja Raja Wadiyar, who was seeking to expand his kingdom and gain control of the neighboring regions.
The Marathas under Sambhaji Maharaj fought fiercely to defend their territory and repel the Mysore invaders. The battle was intense and resulted in heavy losses on both sides. However, ultimately, the Marathas were able to defeat the Mysore forces and successfully repel the invasion.
The victory in the Mysore invasion was a significant achievement for Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and his armies. It demonstrated the military prowess and strength of the Maratha Empire, and solidified its position as a major power in the region. The victory also helped to establish the Marathas as a dominant force in southern India.
The Mysore invasion also had an impact on the economy of the Maratha Empire, as it allowed the Marathas to gain control of valuable resources such as gold mines and other mineral resources in the region, which helped to increase the wealth and prosperity of the empire.
In summary, the Mysore invasion was a significant event during Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's reign as the second ruler of the Maratha Empire. The Marathas under Sambhaji Maharaj fought fiercely to defend their territory and successfully repel the invasion. The victory was a significant achievement for the Maratha Empire and solidified its position as a major power in the region, also had an impact on the economy of the Maratha Empire by allowing the Marathas to gain control of valuable resources such as gold mines and other mineral resources in the region.
Conflict with Portuguese and East India Company
During Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's reign, the Maratha Empire faced conflicts with both the Portuguese and the East India Company. The Portuguese were a powerful colonial power that controlled a number of coastal territories in India, including Goa. The East India Company was a British trading company that was rapidly expanding its influence in India.
The conflicts with the Portuguese and the East India Company were driven by a desire for control over trade and commerce. The Maratha Empire, under Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's leadership, sought to gain control over the trade routes and resources of the western coast of India, which were controlled by the Portuguese and the East India Company. The Marathas saw the Portuguese and British as a threat to their economic and political power, and they sought to challenge their control over the region.
The conflicts with the Portuguese and the East India Company were primarily fought through naval battles and skirmishes. The Maratha navy, under the command of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, was able to challenge the naval dominance of the Portuguese and the East India Company, and gain control over key trade routes and ports.
The conflicts with the Portuguese and the East India Company were not only limited to the sea, but also in the land. The Maratha army, under Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's leadership, also fought several land battles against the Portuguese and the East India Company in order to gain control over key territories and resources.
Overall, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's leadership during the conflicts with the Portuguese and the East India Company was characterized by his determination to maintain and expand the economic and political power of the Maratha Empire. He was a skilled military leader who was able to challenge the colonial powers and gain control over trade routes and resources.
Conflict with Aurangzeb
During his reign, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj faced one of his greatest challenges in the form of conflicts with the Mughal Empire, led by Aurangzeb. The two sides clashed in several battles, with the Marathas, under Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's leadership, able to hold their own against the powerful Mughal army. Aurangzeb, who was known for his ambition to expand Mughal Empire and his policy of religious persecution, saw Maratha Empire as a major threat to his ambitions.
The conflicts between the two empires were fierce and prolonged, with both sides suffering significant losses. However, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was able to maintain the Maratha Empire's strength and expansion, despite the challenge posed by the Mughals. The conflicts with Aurangzeb ultimately led to Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's capture and execution, but his resistance and the Maratha's ability to withstand the Mughal pressure, became a symbol of Maratha's bravery and determination in the face of adversity.
Attack on Fort of Burhanpur
In 1687, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj ordered an attack on the Fort of Burhanpur, which was controlled by the Mughals. The attack on the Fort of Burhanpur was a significant event that occurred during the reign of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. The Fort of Burhanpur was a Mughal-controlled fortress located in present-day Madhya Pradesh, India. The fort was known for its strategic importance and its wealth of resources, including a strong treasury and an important trade route.
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, in his bid to expand the Maratha Empire and strengthen its control over the region, ordered an attack on the fort. The Maratha army, under his leadership, launched a siege on the fort and after a prolonged battle, was able to capture it in 1681. The fall of the Fort of Burhanpur was a major victory for the Marathas as it enabled them to gain control over important resources and trade routes.
The capture of the Fort of Burhanpur was a significant event in the history of the Maratha Empire. It helped to expand the territory and resources of the empire and solidified the Marathas' control over the region. The fort was an important source of revenue for the empire, and its capture helped to strengthen the economy and military power of the Maratha Empire.
In conclusion, The attack on the Fort of Burhanpur was a strategic move by Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj to gain control over the important fort and its resources, which helped to strengthen the Maratha Empire's economy and military power. The successful capture of the fort demonstrated the strength and skill of the Maratha army and the leadership of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. The attack was successful and the Marathas were able to capture the fort and expand their territory.
Attack on Fort of Ramsej
In the same year, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj also ordered an attack on the Fort of Ramsej, which was also controlled by the Mughals. The Marathas were able to successfully capture the fort and solidify their control over the region. The Fort of Ramsej was a Mughal-controlled fortress located in present-day Maharashtra, India. Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj ordered an attack on the fort, with the goal of capturing it and expanding the territory of the Maratha Empire.
The attack was successful, and the Maratha army was able to capture the fort. The fall of the Fort of Ramsej was a significant military victory for the Marathas and it helped to solidify their control over the region. The fort was strategically important as it was a major center of trade and commerce, and its capture enabled the Marathas to gain control over important trade routes and resources.
The attack on the Fort of Ramsej was part of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's strategy to expand the territory of the Maratha Empire and strengthen its control over the region. The successful capture of the fort demonstrated the strength and skill of the Maratha army and the leadership of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.
Governance Model
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's governance model was based on the principles of justice and equality for all. He implemented policies that ensured the welfare of his people and worked to eliminate corruption and nepotism in the government.
One of his main priorities was to establish a just and fair legal system. He set up a system of courts and appointed qualified judges to ensure that justice was served to all, regardless of social status or wealth. He also implemented a system of checks and balances to prevent abuse of power and corruption among government officials.
He was also known for his strict adherence to the principles of Swarajya, self-rule, which was the core belief of Marathas. He believed that the people should have a say in the governance of their own affairs and implemented policies that empowered his subjects and gave them a voice in government.
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj also implemented policies to improve the lives of his people. He encouraged the growth of agriculture and industry, and built infrastructure such as irrigation systems and roads to improve communication and transportation. He also implemented social welfare programs to help the poor and marginalized communities.
Overall, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's governance model was characterized by his commitment to justice, equality, and the welfare of his people. He was a leader who was dedicated to serving the needs of his subjects and working to improve their lives.
Severe Drought
During the early years of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's reign, a severe drought affected the empire. The lack of water and food caused great hardship for the people and put pressure on the government to find solutions. To help his people, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj implemented policies to alleviate the effects of the drought.
He built new wells and water storage systems, encouraged the cultivation of drought-resistant crops, and provided relief such as food distribution and financial assistance to those affected. Despite the severe drought, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was able to maintain the stability of the empire and provide for his people, preventing the situation from getting worse.
Agricultural Policy
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj also implemented policies to improve agriculture and increase food production. He encouraged the cultivation of new crops, such as sugarcane and cotton, and built irrigation systems to improve crop yields. During his reign, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj implemented policies to improve agricultural production and increase the prosperity of the Maratha people. He understood the importance of agriculture for the economy and the livelihoods of his people.
One of the key policies he implemented was the construction of irrigation systems, such as dams and canals, to increase the availability of water for crops. This helped to increase crop yields and improve the productivity of the land. He also encouraged the cultivation of drought-resistant crops, which helped to mitigate the effects of droughts and other natural disasters on agriculture.
He also implemented land reform policies to promote the growth of agriculture. He distributed land to landless farmers and provided them with the necessary resources and support to cultivate the land. He also encouraged the growth of industries such as textiles and sugar production, which helped to diversify the economy and create new opportunities for the people.
In addition, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj also implemented policies to support the growth of trade and commerce. He built roads and other infrastructure to improve communication and transportation which helped to facilitate the trade of agricultural products and increase prosperity for the people.
In summary, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's agricultural policies were aimed at increasing agricultural productivity and prosperity for the people. He implemented policies such as irrigation systems, land reform, and trade and commerce to improve the livelihoods of his people and promote the growth of the economy.
Art and Culture
During his reign, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was a patron of art and culture. He supported poets, writers, and artists, and encouraged the growth of literature, music, and other forms of art. He himself was a poet and musician and composed many works that were popular among the people.
He also took steps to promote the study and preservation of Maratha culture and tradition. He built temples and other religious institutions to preserve and promote Hindu culture. He also supported the construction of palaces, forts, and other architectural structures that served as symbols of Maratha power and prestige. These structures were not only impressive but also had great cultural significance.
His court was a melting pot of culture, where artists, poets, and musicians from different backgrounds came together to share their talents and skills. He also invited scholars and intellectuals from different parts of the country to his court, which helped to foster a culture of knowledge and learning. This contributed to the growth of a rich and diverse artistic tradition in the Maratha Empire.
In summary, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was a patron of art and culture and actively supported the growth and preservation of literature, music, and other forms of art. He also promoted the study and preservation of Maratha culture and tradition, and fostered a culture of knowledge and learning in his court. His support for the arts and culture contributed to the growth of a rich and diverse artistic tradition in the Maratha Empire.
Religious Policy
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the second ruler of the Maratha Empire, had a religious policy that emphasized tolerance and inclusiveness. He believed in the importance of respecting and protecting the rights of all people, regardless of their religious beliefs. He made efforts to foster harmony and unity among his subjects by promoting mutual understanding and acceptance.
One of the ways he achieved this was by creating an environment where minorities, such as Muslims and Christians, were not discriminated against or persecuted. He also took steps to revive and promote the traditions and culture of his Hindu Maratha community, while maintaining cordial relations with leaders of other religions.
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's religious policy was one of tolerance and inclusiveness. He respected and protected the rights of people of all religions, and worked to promote harmony and unity among his subjects. He was a follower of Hinduism and was known for his devotion to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. He also had a good relationship with the saints and religious leaders of his time.
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's religious policy was also reflected in his actions towards the preservation of temples and other religious institutions, as well as promoting the study of the Vedas, the sacred texts of Hinduism. He believed that religious diversity was a strength and not a weakness and worked towards creating a society that was inclusive and respectful of diversity. This helped to maintain peace and stability in the empire and improved the prosperity of his people.
In addition to the above, Sambhaji Maharaj also implemented policies that protected the rights of people of other religions. He ensured that people of all religions were treated with respect and dignity and that their rights were protected. He also took steps to promote inter-faith harmony and understanding among his subjects.
Capture and Execution
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was captured by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in 1689 after a long and intense battle. He was found hiding in a cave in the Konkan region and was taken to the city of Aurangabad where he was held as a prisoner.
During his captivity, Aurangzeb offered him the opportunity to convert to Islam and pledge allegiance to the Mughal Empire, however, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj refused to do so. He stayed true to his beliefs and his kingdom, the Maratha Empire. His refusal led to his execution by Aurangzeb, which was a brutal and public execution.
The capture and execution of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj served as a rallying cry for the Maratha Empire to continue the fight against the Mughals and solidified his status as a martyr and symbol of Maratha resistance. His death was a major loss for the Maratha Empire and it was a turning point in the battle against the Mughals.
It's important to note that Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's capture and execution was not only a loss for the Maratha Empire but also for the people of India as a whole, as he was a just ruler who worked for the welfare of his people. He was a symbol of resistance and his death served as a reminder to never give up the fight for freedom.
Children's of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj had two children, a son named Shahu and a daughter named Bhavani Bai. His son Shahuji was born to his wife Jivubai, also known as Yesubai.
Shahuji was born in 1682 and was declared as the heir-apparent to the Maratha Empire after his father's capture and execution by Aurangzeb. However, he was captured by the Mughals and kept in captivity for several years before being released. He later went on to become the third ruler of the Maratha Empire and played a significant role in the expansion and consolidation of the Maratha Empire.
Legacy
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's legacy is one of courage, determination, and resistance against oppression. He is remembered as a leader who stood up against the Mughals and fought to preserve the independence and sovereignty of the Maratha Empire.
His military achievements, such as the successful repulsion of the Mysore invasion and the attack on Fort of Ramsej, solidified the Maratha Empire's position as a dominant power in the region and demonstrated the military prowess and strength of the Marathas.
His governance model, which emphasized justice, equality, and the welfare of his people, served as an inspiration for later leaders of the Maratha Empire and helped to establish a culture of self-rule and empowerment among the people.
His support for the arts and culture and his policies to improve agricultural production and increase the prosperity of the Maratha people, also helped to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of the Maratha Empire. His religious policy of tolerance and inclusiveness helped to promote a culture of harmony and unity among his subjects, and his legacy continues to be an inspiration for people of all religions.
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's legacy continues to be celebrated and remembered in the state of Maharashtra, India and his sacrifice and valor will always be remembered as a symbol of resistance and determination in the face of oppression.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was a remarkable leader who made significant contributions to the Maratha Empire during his reign as the second ruler. He was a military leader who successfully defended the empire against invasions and an able administrator who governed justly and promoted the welfare of his people. He was a patron of art and culture and promoted the growth of a rich and diverse artistic tradition in the Maratha Empire. He implemented policies that improved agricultural production and increased the prosperity of the Maratha people.
He also had a religious policy of tolerance and inclusiveness, which helped to create a society that was inclusive and respectful of diversity, which in turn helped to maintain peace and stability in the empire. His capture and execution by Aurangzeb served as a rallying cry for the Maratha Empire to continue the fight against the Mughals and solidified his status as a martyr and symbol of Maratha resistance. His legacy continues to be celebrated and remembered in the state of Maharashtra, India as a symbol of resistance and determination in the face of oppression.