Last updated: October 2026 Β· 3 min read
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (1630-1680) founded an independent Maratha kingdom in western India, challenging the mighty Mughal Empire and the Deccan sultanates. His military skill, forts and fair administration made him one of India’s most admired rulers.
Timeline
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1630 | Born at Shivneri fort near Junnar to Shahaji Bhonsle and Jijabai |
| 1645-47 | Captures Torna and builds Rajgad, starting his kingdom |
| 1659 | Defeats Afzal Khan of Bijapur at Pratapgad |
| 1663 | Surprise night attack on Mughal general Shaista Khan in Pune |
| 1664 | Raids Surat, a rich Mughal port |
| 1665 | Treaty of Purandar with Jai Singh, giving up several forts |
| 1666 | Escapes from house arrest in Agra |
| 1674 | Coronation as Chhatrapati at Raigad |
| 1680 | Dies at Raigad |
Forts and guerrilla warfare
Shivaji controlled or built hundreds of forts across the Sahyadri hills, including Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad and Sinhagad. His light cavalry used ganimi kava (guerrilla tactics): surprise attacks, speed and knowledge of the terrain to defeat larger armies. In 2025, twelve Maratha forts were inscribed by UNESCO as the “Maratha Military Landscapes of India”.
Navy and coastal defence
Recognising the threat from the Portuguese, English and Siddis, he built a navy and sea forts such as Sindhudurg and Vijaydurg. This is why he is often called the father of the Indian Navy.
Administration
- The Ashta Pradhan, a council of eight ministers, assisted the king.
- Revenue was collected directly rather than through powerful middlemen.
- He promoted Marathi and Sanskrit in administration.
- He respected all religions and protected places of worship, women and farmers.
After Shivaji: the Maratha Empire
His sons Sambhaji and Rajaram continued the struggle against Aurangzeb. In the 18th century, under the Peshwas such as Baji Rao I, Maratha power spread across much of India, until the defeat at the Third Battle of Panipat (1761) and later wars with the British, ending in 1818.
Frequently asked questions
When was Shivaji Maharaj crowned?
On 6 June 1674 at Raigad fort; the date is also marked by the Hindu calendar as Shiv Rajyabhishek.
Where was Shivaji born?
At Shivneri fort near Junnar in Pune district, Maharashtra.
What is Shiv Jayanti?
The celebration of Shivaji Maharaj’s birth anniversary, officially observed in Maharashtra on 19 February.
Keep exploring
Facts are based on widely accepted official, scientific and historical sources at the time of writing. Spotted something that needs updating? Let us know.
