Every year, India celebrates 19 February as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti; he was an Indian ruler from the Bhonsle-Maratha dynasty. He, also known as Shivaji or Shivaji Raje Bhosale, was born to Shahaji Bhosale and Jijabai on 19 February 1630 in Shivneri Durg, Pune.

During the regime of Muslim invaders, Shivaji was among the native Indian leaders who fought for the unity and integrity of India. He was the first to give the idea of Hindavi Swaraj and aroused feelings of nationalism; the freedom fighters in India’s freedom struggle also adopted the strategy.

One of his most famous sayings still encourages the countrymen, “Even if there were a sword in the hands of everyone, it is willpower that establishes a government.”

PM Modi also shares greetings on X (formerly known as Twitter), “Greetings to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on his birth anniversary. Visionary leaders, fearless warriors, custodians of culture and epitome of good governance, his life has inspired generations.”

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On his 394th birth anniversary, let’s explore some 5 interesting facts about Shivaji Maharaj.

Father of Guerrilla Warfare: Shivaji Maharaj is also known as the father of guerrilla warfare, showing he had deep insights into geography and was very well aware of how to use it during battle. Aware of the fact, his rivals called him a ‘mountain rat.’ 

Proposer of Hindavi Swaraj: It was a call for self-governance, highlighting the essence of democracy—in the war of independence, leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak and MK Gandhi adopted the concept. 

Great Supporter of Women: He always stood for the respect and honour of women; he never harassed women during raids and was totally against the violence against women. Under his regime, women from captured territories were never taken as prisoners. The one who tried to harass women was punished severely.

Founder of the Indian Navy: In the early days of his leadership, Shivaji identified the importance of the Navy. He established a consolidated naval force to protect the Sealine from foreign invaders like the Dutch, Portuguese, British, and French. He also built naval forts such as Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg, and numerous other locations, and he commissioned four distinct types of warships, including Manjuhas, Pal, Gurabs, and Gallibats. Therefore, he is recognised as the father of the Indian Navy.

Goddess Shivai: The name of Shivaji Maharaj is derived from Goddess Shivai.