Jijamata was born on 12 January 1598 at Jijau Mahal, Deulgaon, Shindhkhed Raja , Ahmadnagar Sultanate. So 12 January is the day celebrated as JIjamata Jayati. She is Also known as ‘Rajmata’, ‘Rashtramata’, ‘Jijabai’, ‘Jijau’, ‘ Mother of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’, And also known as the ‘founder of the Maratha Empire ’.
source: Google
About Jijimata and Family :
Jijamata was daughter of ‘Lakhuji Jadhav’ and ‘Mahalasa bai’. She had four brothers. Her father was a Maratha Noble. At the age of 8 years, Jijamata got married to Shahaji Raje Bhosale.on 5Nov.1605 . Shahaji Bhosale was the son of Moloji Bhosale of Verul village.
Shahaji Raje was a Military Leader of India in the 17th century. He served the Ahmadnagar sultanate, The Bijapur sultanate, and the Mughal Sultanate . as well as Shahaji Raje, a courageous and Brave Saradar of Marathas. Shahaji Raje died on 23 January 1664.
Jijamata was the mother of two sons, Sambhaji Raje and Shivaji Raje. Sambhaji Shahaji Raje was the elder son of Shahaji And Jijamata.
At the time of Shambhaji’s birth, Shahaji Raje was a general in the court of Nizamshahi. Sambhaji was killed by Afzal Khan when Shivaji Maharaj was born on 19 February 1630 in Shivneri Fort.
Jijamat taught Shivaji Maharaj about “ Swarajya ” and raised Him to be a Warrior. She told Shivaji Maharaj Stories from the Ramayana, Mahabharat. She wants Shivaji Maharaj Independent.
Shivaji Maharaj was an Indian Rular and member of The Bhosale Clan. He carved his own kingdom Known as the “Maratha Empire”. In 1674 he was Formally Crowned The Chhatrapati At Raigad Fort. He died on 3 April 1680 at the age of 50 years on Raigad fort.
Jijamata was not only beautiful but also had a lot of skills like Horse riding. She managed her husband’s jagir in Pune and developed it. She established Kasba Ganpati Mandir. The mother of the Independent Maratha Empire died on 17 June 1674 at Raigad Fo
Introduction
Jijamata, also known as Rajmata Jijabai, was the mother of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. She played a crucial role in shaping Shivaji’s character, instilling in him values of courage, righteousness, and devotion to Swarajya (self-rule). Her life was one of sacrifice, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to the dream of an independent Maratha kingdom.
Early Life and Background
Jijabai was born on January 12, 1598, in the Sindkhed Raja region of present-day Maharashtra. She was the daughter of Lakhujirao Jadhav, a prominent nobleman in the service of the Nizamshahi Sultanate. Her mother, Mahalasabai Jadhav, was also from a noble lineage. From a young age, Jijabai was exposed to political affairs and military strategies due to her father’s position in the kingdom.
In 1605, at the age of seven, she was married to Shahaji Bhosale, a valiant warrior and an esteemed noble serving under the Deccan Sultanates. This marriage was a strategic alliance between two powerful families, strengthening the position of the Bhosales in the political landscape of the Deccan.
Jijabai’s Role in Shivaji’s Upbringing
Jijabai’s influence on Shivaji Maharaj was profound. After Shahaji was assigned to different military campaigns and was often away, she took sole responsibility for Shivaji’s upbringing. She played a vital role in molding him into a fearless and just ruler.
Instilling Values and Patriotism
Jijabai was deeply religious and had immense respect for Hindu traditions and culture. She often narrated stories of Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Indian warriors like Maharana Pratap to Shivaji, instilling in him a sense of duty, courage, and an aspiration to establish Swarajya. These teachings sowed the seeds of self-rule and inspired him to fight against foreign rulers.
Education and Military Training
Jijabai ensured that Shivaji received the best education in administration, warfare, and leadership. Under her guidance, Shivaji was trained in sword fighting, horse riding, and guerrilla warfare, which later became the foundation of the Maratha military strategy.
Political Challenges and Struggles
Jijabai faced numerous challenges due to the political instability of the time. The Deccan region was divided among the Mughals, Adilshahi, Nizamshahi, and other smaller kingdoms. Shahaji Bhosale served under various rulers and was frequently caught in political conflicts.
In 1636, Shahaji was forced to serve the Adilshahi Sultanate, and he sent Jijabai and Shivaji to Pune. This move proved significant, as Pune became the center of Shivaji’s early efforts in establishing the Maratha Empire. Under Jijabai’s supervision, Pune flourished, with forts and administrative centers being built to support Shivaji’s growing ambitions.
Jijabai’s Contribution to the Establishment of Swarajya
Development of Pune
Jijabai played a key role in rebuilding Pune, which was in ruins due to earlier conflicts. She initiated various developmental projects, including the restoration of Lal Mahal, where she and Shivaji resided. She also encouraged agriculture, irrigation, and trade, making Pune a stronghold of the Maratha movement.
Coronation of Shivaji Maharaj
Jijabai witnessed the fulfillment of her lifelong dream when Shivaji was coronated as Chhatrapati (Emperor) of the Maratha Empire in 1674 at Raigad Fort. She had tirelessly worked to prepare him for this role, and his coronation was a moment of immense pride for her.
Jijabai’s Death and Legacy
Just a few days after Shivaji’s coronation, Jijabai passed away on June 17, 1674. Her death marked the end of an era, but her legacy continued through the Maratha Empire. Shivaji Maharaj always acknowledged her contribution in shaping his vision for Swarajya.
Honors and Memorials
- Fortresses and Statues: Several forts, statues, and memorials across Maharashtra honor Jijabai’s contributions.
- Educational Institutions: Many schools and universities are named after her.
- Jijamata Udyan (Mumbai Zoo): One of Mumbai’s famous landmarks is named in her honor.
Conclusion
Jijabai was not just the mother of a great king but also a warrior, a visionary, and a guiding force behind one of India’s most powerful empires. Her wisdom, resilience, and unshakable faith in her son’s destiny played a crucial role in shaping the history of India. Her story remains an inspiration, reminding us of the power of a mother’s love and the strength of unwavering determination.
“Jijamata Jayanti” is an article written for the birth anniversary of Jijamata. This article tries to introduce the Jijamata Family and her courage. If this article is helpful so please connect with us.
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Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj: The Founder of the Maratha Empire
Introduction
Jijamata
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was one of the greatest warriors and rulers in Indian history. He was the founder of the Maratha Empire and is known for his military genius, administrative skills, and commitment to Swarajya (self-rule). His leadership and valor played a crucial role in resisting Mughal and other foreign rule in India.
Early Life and Background
- Birth: February 19, 1630, at Shivneri Fort, Maharashtra
- Parents: Shahaji Bhosale (father) and Rajmata Jijabai (mother)
- Upbringing: Shivaji was raised by Jijabai, who instilled in him a strong sense of justice, Hindu values, and the dream of Swarajya.
- Education: Trained in administration, military tactics, horse riding, and warfare.
Establishment of Swarajya
Shivaji’s vision of an independent Hindu kingdom was influenced by his mother’s teachings. He started his conquests at a young age and successfully established an independent Maratha kingdom.
Early Conquests
- Torna Fort (1645): His first major victory at the age of 15.
- Fort Raigad, Purandar, Kondhana, and Rajgad: He captured several forts from the Adilshahi and Mughals, expanding Maratha rule.
- Guerrilla Warfare: He developed an effective guerrilla warfare strategy, using the rugged terrain of the Sahyadri Mountains to his advantage.
Conflict with the Mughals
- Attack on Shaista Khan (1663): Shivaji launched a daring night raid on the Mughal general in Pune.
- Sacking of Surat (1664): He attacked the wealthy Mughal port city and took immense wealth to fund the Maratha army.
- Treaty of Purandar (1665): Shivaji temporarily surrendered 23 forts to the Mughals but later regained control.
- Escape from Agra (1666): Aurangzeb imprisoned him, but Shivaji’s clever escape became legendary.
Coronation as Chhatrapati
- Date: June 6, 1674
- Location: Raigad Fort
- Significance: Declared himself Chhatrapati (sovereign ruler) and officially established the Maratha Empire.
- Administrative Reforms: Introduced strong governance, a taxation system, and military organization.
Military Strategies and Navy
- Fort Building: Constructed and strengthened over 300 forts.
- Maratha Navy: Established a naval force to protect the Konkan coast and challenge foreign traders like the Portuguese and British.
- Ashtapradhan Mandal: Created an efficient council of eight ministers for administration.
Death and Legacy
- Death: April 3, 1680, at Raigad Fort
- Legacy:
- Inspired future leaders like the Peshwas and freedom fighters.
- His ideals of Swarajya and Hindu unity continue to influence Maharashtra and India.
- Statues, films, literature, and public memorials honor his contributions.
Conclusion
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was not only a warrior but also a visionary ruler. His principles of governance, military brilliance, and commitment to the welfare of his people make him an immortal figure in Indian history. His life remains an inspiration for generations to come.
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