Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Death Anniversary 2024: 10 Inspiring Facts and Quotes to Share

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, born on February 19, 1630 in Pune to Jijabai and Shahji Bhonsle, was a legendary figure in Indian history. From a very young age, he received military training and in 1674, he established the Maratha Empire in Western India. Historians remember him as a progressive and kind ruler who cared for his people and his motherland. He passed away on 3 April 1680, after suffering from a severe fever and dysentery. On his 344th death anniversary, let’s take a look at some intriguing facts about this brave Maratha ruler.

10 THINGS YOU MUST KNOW

1. While many believe Lord Shiva gave Chhatrapati Shivaji’s name, scholars suggest he was named after Shivai, a local deity.
2. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj strongly supported women’s rights.
3. He established the Ashta Pradhan Mandal, a council of eight officials offering guidance on political and other matters.
4. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s first naval expedition of Maratha Navy took place in 1665.
5. He revived Hindu court, encouraged Marathi and Sanskrit over Persian text.
6. Skilled in guerrilla warfare, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj earned the name ‘mountain rat’ for his tactics.
7. Shivaji welcomed Muslims into his navy, including Daulat Khan and Ibrahim Khan.
8. A small council was responsible for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s education, who taught him reading, writing, horse riding, martial arts and religious studies. A special instructor was provided for military training.
9. His knowledge about guerrilla tactics enabled him to quickly capture forts and expand his territory despite leading a small army.
10. Shivaji learned war skills from Dadaji Kondadev. He was administrator of the Pune jaagir.

INSPIRING QUOTES

1. “The strong manly ones, in life, are those who understand the meaning of the word patience. Patience means restraining one’s inclinations.”
2. “Even if there were a sword in the hands of everyone, it is willpower that establishes a government.”
3. “It is the prime duty of every citizen to feel that his country is free and to defend its freedom is his duty.”
4. “A man becomes great when he plants a tree, knowing that he will never sit in its shade.”
5. “Even from enemies, a man can learn. The better a man becomes, the fewer his enemies.”
6. “The water of a river doesn’t go stale because it flows.”
7. “Treat your men as you would your own beloved sons, and they will follow you into the deepest valley.”