Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2025, History, Facts

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2025 is observed on February 19, 2025 which is celebrated each year to celebrate the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti

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

  1. Shivaji Maharaj was raised by his mother, Jijabai, who shaped his values and instilled in him a strong sense of courage and righteousness.
  2. He had an interest in religious teachings and often considered hindu saints suggestions in his governance and policies.
  3. Contrary to popular belief, his name was not derived from Lord Shiva but from a regional goddess, Shivai. 
  4. 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. 
  5. 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

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Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2025 FAQs

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