Maratha King Shivaji

First Online: February 15, 2002
Page Last Updated: April 07,2009

© K. L. Kamat

Maratha King Shivaji

The rise of Shivaji and the Marathas is an important factor in the history of India. Shivaji (1627-1680 A.D.) was the founder of the Maratha kingdom.  He was greatly inspired by the heroes of Hindu mythologies and he considered it his mission to liberate India from the Islamic rulers.  At a young age, he conquered the forts of Torna, Raighad, and Purandar. He used the guerrilla tactics to confront even the mightiest of the empires (that of Moghul emperor Aurangjeb) India had known.  He imposed a land tax called Chauth on the kingdoms he conquered and used it to build a powerful Hindu army. Shivaji was a brave and able administrator, and established a government that included such modern concepts as cabinet (Ashtapradhan mandal), foreign affairs (Dabir), and internal intelligence.

Timeline of Shivaji's Life

See Also:

• Education of Royalty in India
• Dynasties of the Deccan
• When the Mogus Ruled… -- Chronology of the Mogul dynasty, including important kings, the span of their kingdoms, and period artifacts. Includes references and links.
• History Potpourri -- Social and political history of India; includes history of freedom struggle, history of drinking, history of education, dynasties, and religious movements
• Search for Shivaji in Kamat PictureSearch