One of India’s most illustrious and clever conquerors and monarchs throughout history was Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. He was born on February 19th, 1630 at Shivneri, a hill fort in Maharashtra. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is frequently referred to as the founding father of Indian Navy due to his fearless leadership and excellent strategic planning in creating a strong naval force capable of protecting the Konkan coastline against foreign invaders. In this article, we are going to discuss who is the father of Indian Navy.
Several difficulties and struggles characterised Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s early years. He spent the majority of his childhood living with his mother Jijabai and grandmother Jijau because Shahaji (father of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj) was frequently away from home.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was taught the technique of combat by his mother and her trusted advisors at a young age because of his intense interest in warfare. Instilling in him a sense of pride and nationalism that would later serve as the cornerstone of his vision for an independent Maratha kingdom, his mother had a significant impact on him.
One of the finest military strategists in Indian history, he is renowned for his illustrious military campaigns. He assembled a powerful force of extremely devoted Maratha soldiers who were ready to give their life in defence of their master.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj knew how important it was to dominate the waters, thus his military efforts extended beyond the land. He was aware of the importance of retaining control over the Konkan coastline to the Maratha kingdom’s economic and strategic goals. He understood that a powerful naval force was required to protect the coastline and keep others from invading the Maratha empire.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj need a strong navy, thus he founded the Indian Navy. He was aware that it would take a naval force to expel the Portuguese, who had erected numerous forts along the Konkan coast. His navy consisted of a number of vessels, each manned by seasoned sailors and armed with powerful cannons.
After his navy significantly aided a series of military actions, the Portuguese rapidly realised they could not compete with his navy. The Maratha fleet gained notoriety as the region’s leading naval force and contributed to the Maratha empire’s rise to power in India. That’s why this is the answer to the question Who is the Father of Indian Navy?
People all around India are still motivated by his legacy as the father of Indian Navy. He provided motivation for India’s resistance to British rule by picturing a powerful, independent Maratha empire that could fend off foreign invaders.
To honour Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy, numerous events are held. In the state of Maharashtra, February 19 the day following his birthday is recognised as a public holiday. The battleship INS Shivaji, which bears the Indian Navy’s name, is currently being used to train the navy’s technical personnel.
More than only the father of Indian Navy, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj made significant contributions to Indian history. He is regarded as a visionary leader who led the Maratha kingdom to independence while defending it from foreign invaders. He was an expert in guerilla warfare and used a variety of cutting-edge tactics, such as fortifications in advantageous places and hit-and-run tactics.
Apart from defending his own realm, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj engaged in other military operations. The Mughal Empire and the Adil Shahi Sultanate of Bijapur were two of the neighbouring nations he waged multiple expeditions. his army, while being greatly outnumbered, managed to severely weaken the Mughal Empire and gain control of the Deccan.
Beyond his military campaigns, his legacy is quite broad. He promoted the growth of music, art, and architecture as an arts patron. He was a fervent Hindu who firmly believed in his Dharma. He put into effect numerous laws to safeguard the rights of the people.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj has won countless honours for his historical achievements, and his memory continues to inspire the Indian people. In 1999, India declared the birth anniversary of Shivaji, also known as Shivaji Jayanti, a national holiday. The Indian Navy has named numerous vessels after Shivaji in an effort to uphold his legacy, including the INS Shivaji. It acts as a hub for the technical experts’ training within the Navy.
In addition to being a skilled military strategist, a supporter of the arts, and a fearless military leader, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was also. Being referred to as the “Father of Indian Navy” attests to his thorough knowledge and vision in this area. To keep outside attackers away from the Konkan coastline, he created a powerful naval force.
He founded the Indian Navy, but he also made numerous other significant contributions to Indian history. He toiled assiduously to drive out foreign invaders and establish a free Maratha state. People are still inspired by his work today. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of brave leadership, careful planning, and nation-defending strategies.
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Resource: India NCC