Shivaji was born at Poona in 1627. His father Ghahiji served as a loyal Jagirdar under the Sultans of Bijapur and Ahmednagar. Shivaji was a born leader. At the age of sixteen, he became the leader of the Mawalis, a war-like tribe living in the valleys adjoining Poona.
He harassed and finally defeated the king of Bijapur. Afzal Khan who was sent to kill Shivaji was himself killed by him. He later attacked and looted the Mughal territories. Aurangzeb tried to knock him off but badly failed.
Shivaji was somehow persuaded to come to Delhi. There he was imprisoned by Aurangzeb but he managed to escape and safely reached Poona. Shivaji became an independent monarch and laid the foundation of the Maratha power in India.
His achievement astonished the Mughals. Aurangzeb felt baffled. He gave fresh lease of life to the decadent Hindus. He was the last supreme flash of Hindu genius engaged in a constructive programme.
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He was daring but not reckless, proud but not vain, crafty but not cruel, thorough but not unscrupulous. He was the son of a Jagirdar and could lead a life of ease and luxury but he placed service of the country before self.
He could have bend his knees to kiss the dust of the Delhi throne and could become the foremost Imperial General like Raja Jai Singh and Man Singh but he did not like to barter honour and self-respect for empty titles and vain glory preferred to remain a fighter in the cause of humanity and the cause of the nation.
He changed the course of history. He did something constructive a cause-not his personal cause, but the cause of an ideal. He fought against formidable odds, facing individuals, groups of individuals, and even a whole community of people.
He was a man who had implicit faith in justice and duty. He honoured Muslim women and respected the Koran. The Muslims enjoyed as high a status in his army as the Hindus. From whatever standpoint we judge him, he was a hero.
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He was the embodiment of justice and toleration. He challenged the tyranny and bigotry of Aurangzeb with meager resources. He was one of those who break but never bend. He was a saviour. He was a true nation-builder. He knew no defeat.
He was deeply religious and God-fearing. He was selfless. He was a true son of Mother India. He was a great general and wise administrator.