10 Defining Moments in the Life of Shivaji Maharaj
Shivaji Bhonsale I was an Indian warrior-king and a member of the Bhonsle Maratha clan. Shivaji carved out an enclave from the declining Adilshahi sultanate of Bijapur that formed the genesis of the Maratha Empire.
1646-03-08
1646-03-08
Conquest of Torna Fort
Shivaji captured Torna Fort, marking his first significant military acquisition and the beginning of his territorial expansion.
16
Conquest
1657-01-01
1657-01-01
Establishment of the Maratha Navy
Shivaji began building a strong naval force to protect his coastal territories from foreign powers and to launch offensives.
26
Military Development
1659-11-10
1659-11-10
Battle of Pratapgad
Shivaji's forces achieved a decisive victory over the Adilshahi general Afzal Khan, establishing Shivaji's military prowess.
29
Battle
1659-11-10
1659-11-10
Assassination of Afzal Khan
Shivaji personally killed Afzal Khan in a legendary encounter during negotiations, a pivotal moment in his struggle against the Adilshahi sultanate.
29
Assassination
1664-01-05
1664-01-05
Sack of Surat
Shivaji's forces plundered the wealthy Mughal port city of Surat twice, acquiring significant wealth and challenging Mughal authority.
33
Raid
1665-06-11
1665-06-11
Treaty of Purandar
Shivaji was forced to sign the Treaty of Purandar with the Mughal general Jai Singh I, ceding many forts to the Mughals.
35
Treaty
1666-08-17
1666-08-17
Escape from Agra
Shivaji made a daring escape from Mughal captivity in Agra, rejoining his forces and resuming his campaign against the Mughals.
36
Escape
1670-02-04
1670-02-04
Battle of Sinhagad
Shivaji's forces captured Sinhagad Fort from the Mughals after a fierce battle, demonstrating their determination and strategic skill.
39
Battle
1674-06-06
1674-06-06
Coronation of Shivaji
Shivaji was formally crowned Chhatrapati (Emperor) of the Maratha Kingdom at Raigad Fort, marking the formal establishment of the Maratha Empire.
44
Coronation
1677-01-01
1677-01-01
Campaign in the South
Shivaji embarked on a major military campaign into southern India, expanding the Maratha Empire's influence and territories significantly.
46
Military Campaign