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Chief Conquests and Struggle Against the Mughals by Shivaji Maharaj

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was one of the most courageous and visionary rulers in Indian
history. He laid the foundation of the Maratha Empire in the 17th century during a time when
most of India was under Mughal or Sultanate control. His military campaigns, administrative
reforms, and unyielding spirit of independence earned him a respected place in history. This
answer discusses his major conquests and his struggles against the Mughal Empire in detail.

1. Early Conquests and Foundation of Swarajya

Shivaji's career as a military leader began at a young age. In 1646, he captured the Torna Fort,
which marked the beginning of his ambition to establish Swarajya (self-rule). This fort, earlier
under the Bijapur Sultanate, became a symbol of Maratha pride.

After this success, he captured several other forts, including Kondhana, Chakan, and
Purandar. He also developed the Raigad Fort, which later became the capital of his empire.
These early conquests laid the foundation of a new Hindu kingdom in western India, independent
of Mughal and Sultanate control.

2. Victory at the Battle of Pratapgad (1659)

The Battle of Pratapgad was one of Shivaji’s first major military victories. The Bijapur general
Afzal Khan was sent to suppress Shivaji’s growing power. He tried to kill Shivaji during a
meeting by deceit. However, Shivaji was prepared and killed Afzal Khan with a hidden weapon
known as wagh nakh (tiger claws). This was followed by a full battle in which Shivaji’s forces
defeated the larger Bijapur army. This victory greatly enhanced Shivaji’s reputation.

3. Battle of Kolhapur (1659)

Later that same year, Shivaji fought another battle against Bijapur forces near Kolhapur.
Despite being outnumbered, he won the battle through brilliant strategy and surprise attacks.
This battle confirmed the military strength of the Marathas and established Shivaji as a
formidable power in the Deccan.

4. Confrontation with the Mughal Empire

As Shivaji's power grew, he came into direct conflict with the Mughal Empire, ruled by
Aurangzeb. The struggle between Shivaji and the Mughals became one of the most important
features of his career.

a) Attack on Shaista Khan (1663)

Aurangzeb appointed Shaista Khan as the governor of the Deccan. Shaista Khan occupied Pune
and began harassing Shivaji’s territories. In a daring move, Shivaji entered the Lal Mahal in
Pune with a small group of men and attacked Shaista Khan in his own residence. Shaista Khan
escaped but lost his fingers in the attack. This incident deeply embarrassed the Mughal Empire
and proved Shivaji’s skill in guerrilla warfare.

b) Raid on Surat (1664)

To finance his military campaigns, Shivaji raided Surat, one of the richest trading ports under
Mughal control. The raid was carefully planned and executed, and it resulted in a large amount
of wealth being taken. The raid demonstrated Shivaji’s ability to strike far into Mughal territory
and return safely.

c) Treaty of Purandar (1665)

In 1665, Aurangzeb sent Raja Jai Singh to subdue Shivaji. After facing strong Mughal forces,
Shivaji agreed to the Treaty of Purandar. Under this treaty, he gave up 23 forts to the Mughals
and agreed to send his son, Sambhaji, to serve the Mughal army. Shivaji himself later visited the
Mughal court in Agra, hoping to establish better relations.

d) Escape from Agra (1666)

At the Mughal court, Shivaji was not given proper respect and was placed under house arrest. In
one of the most dramatic events of his life, he escaped from Agra with his son by hiding in fruit
baskets. This escape became legendary and showed Shivaji’s intelligence and courage. After
returning to his kingdom, he resumed his struggle for Swarajya.

e) Recapture of Forts and Second Raid on Surat (1670)

Following his escape from Agra, Shivaji rapidly regained the forts he had lost under the Treaty
of Purandar. In 1670, he again raided Surat, further weakening Mughal prestige and
strengthening the Maratha treasury. These actions showed that Shivaji was determined to resist
Mughal authority and re-establish Maratha independence.

5. Southern Campaign (1676–1678)

Shivaji then launched a military campaign in South India. He allied with the Golconda
Sultanate and moved through parts of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. He captured important forts
such as Jinji and Vellore, which helped expand his influence in southern India. These conquests
were crucial for controlling trade routes and increasing the reach of the Maratha Empire.

6. Coronation as Chhatrapati (1674)

In 1674, Shivaji was formally crowned as Chhatrapati at Raigad Fort. This coronation was
symbolic as it officially established him as an independent king. It was also culturally significant,
as it revived Hindu kingship during a time when most of India was under Muslim rule. The
coronation helped unite the Marathas under one banner and inspired further resistance to Mughal
authority.

7. Administrative Reforms

Shivaji was not just a warrior; he was also an excellent administrator. He established a well-
organized government:

• He formed the Ashta Pradhan Mandal (Council of Eight Ministers).

These reforms helped in stabilizing his empire and ensuring good governance.
8. Legacy

Shivaji’s conquests and struggles laid the foundation of a strong Maratha Empire that would later
become one of the most powerful forces in India. His successful resistance against the mighty
Mughal Empire served as an inspiration for future freedom movements. His military strategies,
administrative skills, and vision of Swarajya made him a legendary figure in Indian history.

Conclusion

The chief conquests and struggles of Shivaji Maharaj reflect his greatness as a ruler, military
commander, and nation-builder. His victories over the Bijapur Sultanate and his brave resistance
against the Mughal Empire marked a turning point in Indian history. Despite facing powerful
enemies, Shivaji succeeded in establishing a strong and independent Maratha kingdom based on
the ideals of justice, self-rule, and good governance. His life remains a shining example of
courage, wisdom, and devotion to the motherland.

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