Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2025 is observed on February 19, 2025 which is celebrated each year to celebrate the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji, the visionary founder of the Maratha Empire. Renowned for his exceptional military strategies and administrative prowess, Shivaji Maharaj played a crucial role in resisting Mughal domination and establishing a strong, independent kingdom.
He was entitled as “Chhatrapati” in 1674, demonstrating his sovereignty over the Maratha realm. His leadership, Fearlessness and progressive governance continue to inspire generations. The celebration of Shivaji Jayanti is especially significant in Maharashtra, where grand events, and cultural programs are organized to honor his legacy. This year marks the 395th birth anniversary of the legendary Maratha ruler.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2025 History
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was born as Shivaji Bhosale (1630-1680 CE) who was a visionary warrior king and the founder of the Maratha Empire. He was recognised for his military expertise, administrative reforms, and commitment to Swarajya (self-rule). His efforts to free India from foreign rule and his emphasis on good governance have established his legacy as a national hero.
The celebration of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti began in 1870 after the discovery of his tomb at Raigad Fort. It was later popularized by freedom fighter Bal Gangadhar Tilak, who sought to highlight Shivaji Maharaj’s contributions during India’s struggle for independence. Today, Shivaji Jayanti is marked by grand processions, including the Shiv Jayanti Yatra in Maharashtra, where admirers pay tribute by chanting slogans like “Jai Bhavani” and “Jai Shivaji,” celebrating his influence on Indian history and culture.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2025 Significance
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti is observed twice a year, once according to the Hindu calendar on the 3rd day of Phalgun and once as per the Gregorian calendar on February 19. Shivaji Maharaj is remembered for his military prowess, administrative reforms, and his commitment to preserving Hindu political traditions and court conventions.
Unlike many rulers of his time, he promoted the use of Marathi and Sanskrit in his court instead of Persian. His strategic approach enabled him to win multiple battles against the Mughals and establish the Maratha Empire. In 1674, he was officially crowned as the ‘Chhatrapati’ or emperor.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Facts
- Shivaji Maharaj was raised by his mother, Jijabai, who shaped his values and instilled in him a strong sense of courage and righteousness.
- He had an interest in religious teachings and often considered hindu saints suggestions in his governance and policies.
- Contrary to popular belief, his name was not derived from Lord Shiva but from a regional goddess, Shivai.
- He was known for his exceptional military strategies, he earned the title of ‘Mountain Rat’ due to his expertise in guerrilla warfare tactics, which helped him successfully counter larger enemy forces.
- During his resignation, Shivaji engaged in both alliances and conflicts with the Mughal rulers, skillfully tackling the complex political landscape of his time.
List of Battles Fought by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire in western India, was born on February 19, 1630, at Shivneri Fort in present-day Maharashtra. Shivaji Maharaj is best known for his strategic military and innovative warfare techniques. Below is a detailed List of Battles Fought by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj:
Battles Fought by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj | |||
Name of Battle |
Date Fought |
Description |
Who Won |
Battle of Pratapgad |
November 10, 1659 |
Fought between Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Adilshahi general Afzal Khan near Pratapgad Fort, Maharashtra. |
Marathas |
Battle of Kolhapur |
December 28, 1659 |
Fought near Kolhapur, Maharashtra, between Chhatrapati Shivaji and Adilshahi forces. |
Marathas |
Battle of Pavan Khind |
July 13, 1660 |
Fought at a mountain pass near Vishalgad Fort, Maharashtra, between Maratha Sardar Baji Prabhu Deshpande and Adilshahi general Siddi Masud. |
Marathas (Tactical victory) |
Battle of Chakan |
1660 |
Fought between the Maratha Empire and the Mughal Empire. |
Mughals |
Battle of Umberkhind |
February 2, 1661 |
Fought between Chhatrapati Shivaji’s forces and Mughal general Kartalab Khan. |
Marathas |
Sacking of Surat |
January 5, 1664 |
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj raided Surat against Mughal captain Inayat Khan. |
Marathas |
Battle of Purandar |
1665 |
Fought between the Mughal Empire and the Maratha Empire. |
Mughals |
Battle of Sinhagad |
February 4, 1670 |
Fought on Sinhagad Fort between Tanaji Malusare (Marathas) and Udaybhan Rathod (Mughals). |
Marathas |
Battle of Kalyan |
1682-1683 |
Bahadur Khan of the Mughal Empire defeated the Marathas and took over Kalyan. |
Mughals |
Battle of Bhupalgarh |
1679 |
Fought between the Mughal and Maratha empires. |
Mughals |
Battle of Sangamner |
1679 |
The last battle fought by Chhatrapati Shivaji against the Mughal Empire. |
Mughals |
List of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Forts
Each fort linked to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj reflects his strategic brilliance and serves as a symbol of Maratha strength and resilience. Below mentioned table includes the List of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Forts:
List of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Forts | ||
S.no |
Name |
Location |
1 |
Raigad Fort |
Raigad, Maharashtra |
2 |
Shivneri Fort |
Kusur, Junnar, Maharashtra |
3 |
Rajgad Fort |
Balekilla Rd, Pune, Maharashtra |
4 |
Sindhudurg Fort |
Malvan, Maharashtra |
5 |
Pratapgad Fort |
Maan Rd, Hinjawadi, Pune, Maharashtra |
6 |
Torna Fort |
Rajgad – Torna Trek Path, Charhat Wadi, Maharashtra |
7 |
Lohagad Fort |
Lohagad Fort, Lonavala, Pune District, Maharashtra, India |
8 |
Sinhagad Fort |
Sinhagad Ghat Rd, Thoptewadi, Maharashtra |
9 |
Vishalgad Fort |
Vishalgad Rd, Vishalgad, Maharashtra |
10 |
Purandar Fort |
Purandar Rd, Gherapurandhar, Maharashtra |
11 |
Jaigad Fort |
Coastal Road, Jaigad, Maharashtra |
12 |
Vijaydurg Fort |
Maharashtra State Highway 4, Fort, Vijaydurg, Maharashtra |
Last updated on July, 2025
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Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2025 FAQs
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