Question

Write about these in your own words.

The Coronation of Shivaji Maharaj

Answer 1

1. The foundation of Maratha Swaraj involved a continuous struggle for over thirty years.
2. Shivaji Maharaj realized that a formal coronation was necessary for the Swaraj to win general recognition as a sovereign, independent state.
3. There were two traditions of religious ceremonies in India, Vedic and Tantric. Shivaji Maharaj honoured both the traditions and had two coronation ceremonies performed.
4. On 6^th June 1674, Shivaji Maharaj had himself coronated at Raigad by Pandit Gagabhatt. On 24^th September 1674, he had his second coronation performed under the guidance of Nischalpuri Gosavi.

Through these coronations, Shivaji Maharaj became ‘Chhatrapati’ of the Swaraj.