| Shivaji
Ruler of the Maratha Empire
(1630-80)
Biographical
Founder of the kingdom of Maratha, Shivaji began from an early age to
plan the freedom of the Hindus from Muslim rule. By 1655, he had a large
following and began to carry out raids against Mughal controlled territories
which brought in extensive revenues, the most celebrated being the attack
and looting of the city of Surat in 1664. He sued for peace with the Emperor
in 1665, but this was short-lived and he was kept under house arrest until
his escape in 1666. He become the symbol of Hindu resistance to foreign
rule, and a national hero. He recommenced his attacks on Mughal territories,
including Surat again in 1670. He eventually regained his lost territories
and expanded his domains, and was crowned Maharaja Chhatrapati of Maratha
in 1674. Other sources state that he was born in 1627.
Place of birth: Shivner, Poona (Pune), India
Place of death: Rajgarh |
