Why in News? 

Today, February 19, 2025, marks the 395^th birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the esteemed founder of the Maratha Empire.  

Birth & Early Life 

• Born on 19^th February 1630 at Shivneri Fort, Pune, Maharashtra. 
• Son of Shahaji Bhonsle, a Maratha general under the Bijapur Sultanate, and Jijabai, a religious woman who deeply influenced him. 
• At 15 years old, he captured Torna Fort (1645) from Bijapur, marking his first military success. 
• Later, he took control of Kondana Fort, further expanding his power. 

 Major Battles 

• Battle of Pratapgad (1659) – Defeated Afzal Khan of Bijapur near Satara. 
• Battle of Pavan Khind (1660) – Baji Prabhu Deshpande defended Vishalgad Fort against Siddi Masud. 
• Sacking of Surat (1664) – Raided the rich Mughal trading port under Inayat Khan. 
• Battle of Purandar (1665) – Fought against the Mughals, leading to the Treaty of Purandar. 
• Battle of Sinhagad (1670) – Tanaji Malusare fought against Udaybhan Rathod (Mughal fortkeeper). 
• Battle of Kalyan (1682-83) – Lost to Bahadur Khan of the Mughal Empire. 
• Battle of Sangamner (1679) – The last battle Shivaji fought against the Mughals. 

 Conflict with the Mughals 

• Attacked Mughal territories in Ahmednagar and Junnar (1657). 
• Defeated Shaista Khan (Aurangzeb’s uncle) in Pune (1659). 
• Signed the Treaty of Purandar (1665) with Raja Jai Singh I, agreeing to cede forts and meet Aurangzeb in Agra. 

 Arrest & Escape 

• In 1666, Shivaji was arrested in Agra by Aurangzeb. 
• He escaped in disguise along with his son Sambhaji, which is now a famous historical event. 

 Coronation & Expansion 

• Crowned as Chhatrapati on 6th June 1674 at Raigad Fort. 
• Took titles like Shakakarta, Kshatriya Kulavantas, Haindava Dharmodhhaarak. 
• Expanded Maratha influence in Deccan and Western India. 

 Death 

• Passed away on 3^rd April 1680. 
• His legacy continued through Sambhaji Maharaj and later the Peshwas.