A misconception exists in certain parts of Karnataka or within certain sects of people that certain kings fought for their own people, resulting in unnecessary abuse against the proud sons of Bharat. However, the truth lies in the unwavering determination and sacrifices of these kings, who stood as a formidable wall against invaders, safeguarding the rich cultural heritage of the land. One such legendary figure is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, whose exploits and visionary leadership paved the way for the eventual downfall of the mighty Mughal Empire.
The Vijayanagara Empire: The Bulwark Against Invaders
It is an absolute truth that the Vijayanagara Empire stood as a formidable barrier between the invaders and the South. While the North grappled with plunder and destruction, the South thrived under the rich and prosperous Vijayanagara Empire. However, the eventual fall of this great empire paved the way for the rise of a new hero, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Misconceptions About Shivaji Maharaj:
Certain misguided individuals have levelled unfounded accusations against Shivaji Maharaj, claiming that he attacked Kannada lands and Kannadigas, looted Basrur, took help from the Portuguese for ships, and falsely labelled him as the ‘Father of the Indian Navy.’
Addressing the Misconceptions
Shivaji Maharaj’s Prime Enemy: Adil Shah of Bijapur
One of Shivaji Maharaj’s prime enemies was Adil Shah of Bijapur, who ruled over a part of present-day Karnataka and was not a native of Chikkaballapur. Shivaji’s father served as a Jagir to Adil Shah, and when Shivaji rebelled at a tender age, he was rebelling against his own father and the oppressive rule of Adil Shah.
Seeking Assistance from the Portuguese
Firstly, it is essential to understand that Europeans did not arrive in Bharat as invaders but as traders. Shivaji Maharaj was one of the first to recognize their true motives. During that period, no Indian ruler gave importance to naval power, but Shivaji Maharaj believed otherwise. He requested the Portuguese to build ships for him, and they could not refuse as they had come as traders. Simultaneously, he sent spies to learn the art of shipbuilding, which helped him create a formidable naval fleet and establish naval bases.
The Basrur Incident
The Kannada coast would have suffered the same fate as Goa if not for the valiant efforts of the Keladis and Rani Abbakka. The Basrur fort was controlled by the Portuguese, and Shivaji Maharaj attacked Basrur at the request of Shri Somashekhar Nayak of Keladi. This attack was an opportunity for Shivaji to flex his naval prowess, and it was not an attack on Karnataka or its people.
Shivaji’s Broader Vision:
Shivaji Maharaj’s goal was not merely to establish Maratha Swarajya but to achieve Hindavi Swarajya, liberating the entire nation from foreign rule. His prime enemy was the most powerful and dangerous of all Mughals, both militarily and economically. Shivaji took on this formidable foe head-on, outsmarting him several times. Had it not been for the fever that claimed his life, one can only imagine how much faster Bharat would have attained Swaraj.
Shivaji’s Strategies and Tactics
Shivaji Maharaj’s strategies and tactics were so extraordinary that they seemed like scenes from a South Indian film. It is no wonder that some believe he was guided by Maa Bhavani herself. A mountain boy with little exposure to the outside world, his vision and strategies were insane, defying expectations and conventions.
The Role of Rajmata Jijabai
However, the credit for Shivaji’s greatness does not belong solely to him. It was his mother, Rajmata Jijabai, whose teachings and guidance molded him into the legendary figure he became. Despite losing her father, brother, and her first son to the invaders, she did not succumb to fear but trained her son to fight for the honor of Bharat.
Dispelling Further Misconceptions
Critics often attempt to discredit Shivaji Maharaj by claiming that he attacked Sringeri and was helped by Rani Chennamma. However, these events occurred after his demise, making such claims baseless unless Shivaji possessed a time machine.
Shivaji’s Legacy
When pitting one king against another, one only does a disservice to Bharat. These kings were all proud sons of Bharat who fought for her honor. While some may argue that India is a union of states due to the Constitution, the concept of Bharat has remained since time immemorial, transcending political boundaries.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was a visionary leader and a warrior king who stood tall against the might of the Mughal Empire. His unwavering determination, strategic genius, and love for his motherland inspired generations to come. Through his exploits, he initiated the downfall of the Mughals, hammered the Adil Shahis, and pushed British colonialism back by almost 200 years. Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy is not just a chapter in history but a testament to the indomitable spirit of Bharat, a nation that has never bowed down to oppression and always stood united against those who sought to subjugate her.