Context: 

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti / Shivaji Jayanti, is celebrated on February 19 every year. 

• 2024 marks the  394th birth anniversary of Shivaji Maharaj.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj: Biography

• Birth: Shivaji Maharaj was named Shivaji Bhosale and was a member of the Bhonsle Maratha clan. 
  • He was born at Shivneri Fort in 1630.
• Founder of Maratha Empire: He carved an enclave from the Adilshahi sultanate of Bijapur that marked the beginning of the Maratha Empire.

• Titles: Chhatrapati, Shakakarta, Kshatriya Kulavantas and Haindava Dharmodhhaarak.
• Capital: Raigad Fort; he ruled from there until his death.
• Hill forts: He seized the Torna fort, Raigad and Kondana forts, etc. He also repaired numerous forts in strategic locations.  
• Naval Force: He ensured that a strong naval presence was established along the Konkan coast to protect the sea trade of the Maratha empire. (The Indian Navy’s new ensign draws inspiration from Shivaji)
• Revenue administration: He implemented the Ryotwari system. The revenue system was based on the Kathi system, in which every piece of land was measured by Rod or Kathi.
  • Chauth and Sardeshmukhi were sources of income in Maratha administration:
  • Chauth referred to 1/4th of the standard paid to Marathas as a safeguard against Shivaji’s forces raiding non-Maratha territories.
  • Sardeshmukhi was an additional levy of 10% demanded from areas outside of the kingdom.
• Military administration: He established an efficient army and paid soldiers in cash and high-ranking officials through jagir grants (Saranjam).
  • Infantry, Cavalry, and Navy comprised Shivaji’s army.
  • Groups of highly mobile, peasant pastoralists (kunbis) provided the backbone of the Maratha army.
• Self-rule for Hindus/Hindavi Swarajya: He could unite diverse communities under the banner of Hindavi Swarajya (self-rule for Hindus) enabling him to carve out a formidable empire in the Deccan region.

Significance of Shivaji Jayanti

• Lays Emphasis on administration and Governance: His governance was marked by a decentralised administrative system, empowered local chieftains, and promotion of local self-governance.
•  Role of Jayanti in Indian Freedom Struggle: The festival celebrations began in 1870 in Pune with Mahatma Phule and were later championed by Bal Gangadhar Tilak. 
  • Tilak highlighted the contributions of Shivaji, emphasising courage, resilience, and perseverance to influence people in the face of adversity.

Reference: Livemint

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