Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

  1. On the history trail: Battle of Umberkhind (2/5/2021) - The imposing persona of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, undisputedly the greatest, most astute strategist the world has seen is imprinted in the lush green picturesque Sahyadri mountains. He possessed all the virtues extolled by Vidura Mahātma in his treatise Vidura Neeti of a king who can oversee the three worlds and it is unsurprising that he... Continue Reading →
  2. Beed Custard Apple, Maharashtra (2/8/2021) - Beed’s most famous fruit, the deliciously sweet custard apple has been thriving in the dry Balaghat Range for more than four centuries. This organically grown fruit attributes its name to Sita Mata who used to eat this fruit during her exile. Sitaphal derives its name from the Sanskrit words śīta which means cold and phala which means fruit and custard apple... Continue Reading →
  3. Farrukhabad Prints, Uttar Pradesh (2/9/2021) - One of the oldest and most famous industries that has flourished for more than a thousand years in Farrukhabad is the artistic cotton printing industry. India has long been considered to be a pioneer in the art of calico printing with many craftsmen across the country engaged in creating designs that are typical of their... Continue Reading →
  4. Devgarh Fort, Deogarh, Chhindwara District, Madhya Pradesh (2/10/2021) - Madhya Pradesh, called as kubera ka khajānā attributes this title to the unrivalled, undiscovered treasure hidden in its many splendid forts. One of the grandest forts built at the zenith of the Gond dynasty is the Deogarh or Devgarh Fort at its capital city of Deogarh.   Built in the 18th century by King Jatav and perhaps... Continue Reading →
  5. Jagannath Mandir, Behta Bujurg, Kanpur District, Uttar Pradesh (2/11/2021) - A most curious metrological temple has piqued the interest of scientists, historians and devotees for centuries. This temple has the uncanny ability to accurately forecast rainfall in the region! Villagers say that about 5 – 7 days before the onset of rains, water droplets start dripping from the monsoon patthar (monsoon stones) that have been... Continue Reading →
  6. On the history trail: Chimaji Appa and The Battle of Vasai (2/12/2021) - It all started in 1498 when Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama reached the shores of Calicut around the Cape of Good Hope opening up a whole new sea route that would change the course of Indian history. On the pretext of expanding the Indian spice route to Europe, the Portuguese soon established their authority on... Continue Reading →
  7. Jalna Sweet Orange, Maharashtra (2/15/2021) - Jalna district is the largest producer of sweet oranges in Maharashtra with more than 85 percent of the geographical area under agricultural cultivation. Jalna has many agro-climatic advantages that aid the growth of this traditional variety of sweet orange. Located in the upper Godavari basin, the rich black soil along the river banks of Ambad... Continue Reading →
  8. Banaras Metal Repoussé Craft, Uttar Pradesh (2/16/2021) - The ancient repoussé craft, considered to be even older than the Banarasi Silk handloom industry has flourished in the heritage city of Varanasi since the Vedic times. Traditional artisans use the repoussé technique to make faces of gods and goddesses, gold and silver dresses, traditional ornaments, doors, wall decorations in temples and unique gold and... Continue Reading →
  9. Bhuragarh Fort, Banda, Banda District, Uttar Pradesh (2/17/2021) - Banda district in Bundelkhand region has carved a unique identity for itself synonymous with great wars, patriotism and rich heritage. Mighty rulers like the Chandelas of Jejakabhukti, Bundelas, Marathas and others have contributed significantly to its history, culture and tradition. One of the most picturesque forts built in this region which is the resting place... Continue Reading →
  10. Khimeshwar Mahadev Temple, Kuchhadi Village, Porbandar, Gujarat (2/18/2021) - The quaint seaside village of Kuchhadi, located at a little distance from Porbandar has many archaeological sites of historic importance. One of the hidden gems found on this unexplored seashore is the ancient Khimeshwar Mahadev Temple.   Legend has it that the Pandavas along with Draupadi spent a great deal of time in this place... Continue Reading →
  11. On the history trail: General Mahadji Shinde and The Battle of Wadgaon (2/19/2021) - The death of Shrimant Peshwa Madhavrao Bhat I, considered to be the architect behind the resurrection of the Marathas post the Third Battle of Panipat sent the Marathas into a huddle. The British wanted to take advantage of this turmoil by favouring Raghunathrao rather than allowing the astute Nana Phadnavis and the council of ministers... Continue Reading →
  12. Dahanu Gholvad Chikoo, Maharashtra (2/22/2021) - A sea of Zoroastrians seeking refuge landed on the shores of Western India sometime during the 7th century. The local ruler Jadhav Rana was a little sceptical and sent the leader a glass of milk filled to the brim with a seemingly cryptic message of “There is no place here. We are full”. The Zoroastrians... Continue Reading →
  13. Mau Saree, Uttar Pradesh (2/23/2021) - The historically and archaeologically significant city of Mau produces one of the rarest types of sarees called Mau saree that derives its name from the city. Popularly called as the ‘city of weavers’, the weaving industry has been prevalent for at least 200 years if not more. The origin of the Mau saree is traced... Continue Reading →
  14. Sisupalgarh, Khurda District, Odisha (2/24/2021) - Sisupalgarh is an early historic fortified city estimated to be of the period of 500 BCE – 400 CE. Historians differ over the origin of this city with some claiming that it is Toshali, the capital of the ancient kingdom of Kalinga while others say it is the city of Kalinganagara that was glorified by... Continue Reading →
  15. Baba Bhusandeswar Temple, Bhograi Village, Balasore District, Odisha (2/25/2021) - One of the largest Shiva Lingas in India and possibly in Asia is the Baba Bhusandeswar Temple located in the charming village of Bhograi in the coastal district of Balasore. This temple lies almost on the bank of the scenic Subarnarekha River also called Swarnarekha because of the traces of gold found on the river... Continue Reading →
  16. On the history trail: Maratha Navy and The Battle of Basrur (2/26/2021) - The Kanara coast which extends from Majali in the North to Someshwar Mangaluru in the South was controlled by Sondha and Bednore chiefs who though, were feudatories of Bijapur had become independent after the death of Mohammad Adil Shah. The Europeans were slowly but steadily stamping their importance and power over this coastal area by... Continue Reading →
  17. Kaji Nemu, Assam (3/1/2021) - One of the most famous produce of the North eastern state of Assam is Kaji Nemu also called as Assam Lemon. Assam has as many as seventeen species, fifty-three varieties and probably seven if not more hybrids of citrus.   Locals say that this variety originated as a chance seedling raised in a plantation, Burnihut... Continue Reading →
  18. Madur kathi, West Bengal (3/2/2021) - Medinipur or Midnapore, considered to be one of the largest districts of West Bengal after independence is rich with ancient history, archaeological sites, culture and heritage that is deeply influenced by the royal families. It is home to some of the oldest crafts that date back to the Indus Valley Civilization. One among them is... Continue Reading →
  19. Kachari Fort, Khaspur Village, Cachar District, Assam (3/3/2021) - Tucked away in the beautiful village of Khaspur in Cachar district are the ruins of the centuries-old fort of the Kachari kings. Cachar, derived from the Dimasa word kachari was originally a part of the ancient Tripura kingdom and then passed on to the Koch kingdom, the Dimasa kingdom and finally to the British.  ... Continue Reading →
  20. Indralath Temple, Ranipur Jharial, Balangir District, Odisha (3/4/2021) - The temple town of Ranipur Jharial in Balangir or Bolangir district is renowned for its prowess in Tantra Vidya. This historical town of inestimable importance was part of Dakshin Kosala where Lord Rama spent a great deal of his time. Ranipur Jharial is mentioned as Soma Tirtha in the scriptures and deemed to have many... Continue Reading →
  21. On the history trail: Veer Baji Prabhu Deshpande and The Battle of Pavan Khind (3/5/2021) - The resounding victories of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Pratapgarh and Panhala was very difficult for Ali Adil Shah II of Bijapur to stomach since he had been at the receiving end of many humiliating routs. He decided to join forces with the Mughals to either capture young Shivaji or if possible, even kill him in... Continue Reading →
  22. Erode Manjal (Erode Turmeric) (3/8/2021) - Erode, popularly called as the ‘Turmeric City’ is the third largest turmeric market in India after Nizamabad in Telangana and Sangli in Maharashtra. There are approximately 30,000 farmers in Erode alone and around 55,000 farmers in Tamil Nadu engaged in the cultivation of turmeric.   According to historical records, turmeric was grown by peasants in... Continue Reading →
  23. Dhaniakhali Saree of West Bengal (3/9/2021) - One of the most beloved traditional handloom sarees of West Bengal is Dhaniakhali saree deriving its name from the place Dhaniakhali in Chinsurah subdivision in Hooghly district. Hooghly district is home to some of the oldest cottage industries like silk and cotton handloom weaving, brass and bell metal manufacturing, oil pressing, village tanning and others.... Continue Reading →
  24. Karnagarh Rani Shiromani Fort, Karnagarh Village, Paschim Medinipur District, West Bengal (3/10/2021) - The historically important village of Karnagarh in Medinipur district which was once the seat of the Midnapore royal family is most famous for its Chuar Bidroha, a rebellion led by Rani Shiromani, who is called as the Rani Laxmibai of Medinipur against the highly exploitative land revenue policy of the British in 1798. The British were... Continue Reading →
  25. Nibiya Khera Temple, Bhadwara, Kanpur Dehat District, Uttar Pradesh (3/11/2021) - One of the best-preserved brick temple complexes of the 9th – 10th century is found in the sleepy village of Nibiya Khera in Bhadwara. Though no inscription has been found, it is likely that the Gurjara – Pratihara dynasty who ruled over a large part of Northern India built this temple.   This temple complex... Continue Reading →
  26. On the history trail: Chandashoka and The Kalinga War (3/12/2021) - Along with the wily Chanakya, Chandragupta Maurya, the founder of the Maurya dynasty built one of the largest empires in Akanda Bharat. He abdicated the throne in favour of his son Bindusara who was equal to the task. Bindusara not only consolidated the control over the empire but also extended it further south. Travellers’ documentation and... Continue Reading →
  27. Eathamozhy Tall Coconut of Tamil Nadu (3/15/2021) - A rare type of tall coconut variety with immense historical, religious and commercial importance known locally as Eathamozhy or Eathamozhi tall coconut thrives in Kanyakumari district. The unique morphological traits found in this variety are of a superior genetic constitution and it is unsurprising that there is great demand for the seedlings of Eathamozhy tall... Continue Reading →
  28. Santipore Saree of West Bengal (3/16/2021) - One of the most exquisite weaves in cotton and silk is found in the Bengal heartland of Shantipur – Phulia. Called as Shantipuri, this centuries-old tant (traditional Bengali saree) derives its name from Shantipur in Nadia district. The ancient handloom industry in Shantipur has been mentioned in manuscripts glorifying the life of Advaita Acharya as... Continue Reading →
  29. Kurumbera Fort, Gaganeshwar Village, Paschim Medinipur District, West Bengal (3/17/2021) - An interesting fort complex built during the glory days of Bengal relegated to obscurity is the Kurumbera Fort which is at a little distance from Kharagpur. Kurumbera Fort which derives its name from kurum which means stone and bera which means fence and collectively means an area fenced by stone in the local language is located in the historically... Continue Reading →
  30. On the history trail: Tulja Bhavani and The Battle of Pratapgad (3/19/2021) - The capture of the hill forts of Purandar, Kalyan and Bhiwandi and the death, ruin and defection of feudatories like the Mores of Javli and the Sawants of Wadi respectively effected by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and his able aides brought the crippling Bijapur kingdom to its knees. The construction of the new hill fort of... Continue Reading →
  31. On the history trail: Nadir Shah invited to invade India by the Mughal Invaders (3/26/2021) - If ever awards for stupidity were to be handed out, it is highly likely that Aurangzeb would confer one for himself and award the rest to his incompetent descendants. By the end of his reign, Aurangzeb who had waged war with the Marathas for twenty-five years and had only pyrrhic victories to his credit undid... Continue Reading →
  32. On the history trail: Conquest of South Konkan by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (4/23/2021) - The wanton interference by the English outside the purview of their trade relations with Indian rulers and invaders at the siege of Panhala did not go unnoticed by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. After Kartalab Khan and Rai Bagan were mousetrapped at Umberkhind and sent back with their honour intact, Maharaj appointed Netaji Palkar to keep an... Continue Reading →
  33. On the history trail: Conquest of Kudal by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (4/30/2021) - Kudal, located to the south of Rajapur was governed by Lakham Sawant of the Sawants of Wadi who in the past had proved to be false to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on more than one occasion. He was a jagirdar under Bijapur and though had publicly claimed to accept Shivaji’s leadership and ambitious goal of Hindavi Swarajya,... Continue Reading →
  34. On the history trail: Tanaji Malusare and The Battle of Kondana (5/7/2021) - Young Sambhaji lived in Aurangabad after the peace agreement was drawn up between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Aurangzeb by Muhammad Mu’azzam under the guardianship of Senapati Prataprao Gujar and Niraji Raoji. They formed a close friendship with Muhammad Mu’azzam and Jai Singh I, all sharing the pleasures of hunting and amusements of living in the... Continue Reading →
  35. On the history trail: Aurangzeb’s Surat plundered by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (5/14/2021) - The night attack on Shaista Khan however spectacular did not inflict any discernible damage on Aurangzeb. Shaista Khan’s seizure and occupation of Pune and its surrounding districts for over three years and the siege of Kondana (December 1663 to June 1664) by Mirza Raja, Jashwant Singh or Jai Singh I had crippled the Maratha empire... Continue Reading →
  36. On the history trail: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s miraculous escape from Agra (5/21/2021) - It was imperative for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to maintain the pretence of submissiveness towards Mirza Raja, Jai Singh I to effect the famous Treaty of Purandar on 11 June 1665. It was quite clear that Mirza Raja was favourably disposed towards Maharaj and sanguine about a permanent understanding between Aurangzeb and Maharaj.   As time passed, Mirza Raja... Continue Reading →
  37. On the history trail: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s adventures after his daring escape from captivity (5/28/2021) - Following a hurried meeting with Ram Singh at his residence, Shivaji’s half-brother Hiroji Farzand and his trusty page Madari Mehtar quickly made their way out of Agra. The guards had been instructed not to disturb ‘Shivaji’ as he had fallen asleep after a restless night. However, the suspicion of the guards was aroused as the... Continue Reading →
  38. On the history trail: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj tricks Aurangzeb to bring back Sambhaji (6/4/2021) - Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s dramatic return to Raigad on 20 November 1666 was followed by widespread rejoicings among his family, citizens and the Maratha army. Each fort fired its feu de joie unceasingly and though the celebrations were appreciated by Maharaj, he decided to issue standing orders on the exact number of gunfire for specified occasions... Continue Reading →
  39. On the history trail: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj plunders Surat for the second time (6/11/2021) - The cat and mouse game continued between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Aurangzeb with the former keeping the latter on his toes with raids on his territory at an alarming regularity. It started with a surprise entry into the Deccan controlled by the Mughals. Maharaj made quick work of Junnar, Ahmednagar and Parenda advancing quickly as... Continue Reading →
  40. On the history trail: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj enters Khandesh (6/18/2021) - The news of the desecration and demolition of the sacrosanct shrine of Shree Kashi Vishwanath at Benares on 4 September 1669 spread like wildfire and caused extreme consternation throughout the country. The construction of a mosque on its site only added fuel to the growing anger against Aurangzeb’s fanaticism to please the Mahomedan orthodoxy. Chhatrapati... Continue Reading →
  41. On the history trail: The Battle of Salher (6/25/2021) - While Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the Marathas raided Berar and Khandesh, Moropant Peshwa made his way through North Konkan into Baglana wresting the forts of Trimbak, Aundha, Patta and Ramnagar from the Mughals and passed through Mulher into West Khandesh levying contributions wherever he went. He reached Salher Fort on the border of Khandesh and... Continue Reading →
  42. On the history trail: Conquest of the Koli territory by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (7/2/2021) - The Second Sack of Surat paved the way for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to make preparations for his ambitious missions by land and sea. The raid into Khandesh and Berar followed by Baglana and Karinja led to the bloody toil of Salher. The spirit of the Marathas was greatly roused by their comprehensive victory over Ikhlas... Continue Reading →
  43. Samadhi of Shrimant Peshwa Baji Rao I, Raverkhedi, Khargone District, Madhya Pradesh (7/7/2021) - “The place of Baji Rao I in India’s history comes home to us with unmistakable force and vividness when we compare the political situation of this country in 1740 with that in 1720. These twenty years of his active career witnessed a complete revolution in the character of the Maratha national state and an entire... Continue Reading →
  44. On the history trail: Fort of Panhala retaken by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (7/9/2021) - Though there were constant skirmishes between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the Mughals, the former’s relationship with Bijapur was relatively peaceful. His power was acknowledged by all the southern states. The chief minister of Bijapur, Abdul Muhammad paid chauth to Maharaj to prevent him from plundering Bijapur. Even Qutub Shah of Golkonda was in awe of him... Continue Reading →
  45. Ghatmatha On the history trail: Hubli raided by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (7/16/2021) - Following the triumph at Panhala, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj decided to press forward his advantage and capture lands which were under the rule of the Bijapur Adil Shahis. After the capture of the forts of Parali and Satara (captured on 26 July 1673), Maharaj had extended his dominion to the east of Ghatmatha over the present... Continue Reading →
  46. On the history trail: The Battle of Umrani and the sacrifice of Senapati Prataprao Gujar (7/23/2021) - When the political intrigues in the Bijapur court had reduced the state to hopeless confusion and the Marathas continued to capture their lands, the regent Khawas Khan decided to send a large army to wrest back Panhala under the commander Abdul Karim Bahlol Khan. The news of this fresh advance reached Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj who... Continue Reading →
  47. Kashikhanda: Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (8/18/2021) - Situated on the western bank of the sacrosanct Ganga River in Varanasi is the grand temple of Kashi Vishwanath. As the name suggests, this ancient temple is dedicated to Vishwanatha or Vishweshwara meaning ‘Ruler of the Universe’ and is the first and only Jyotirlinga located on the banks of the Ganges.   Varanasi also known... Continue Reading →
  48. On the history trail: Sea Power of the Marathas under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (8/20/2021) - A long stretch of the Konkan coast had come under the Marathas but, it was imperative that this coast was secured and therefore, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj spent a great deal of time to ensure the loyalties of the local nobility by either destroying them or receiving a substantial tribute from them.   The Abyssinian State... Continue Reading →
  49. Kashikhanda: Kaal Bhairav Mandir (Kashi ke Kotwal), Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (8/25/2021) - The Kaal Bhairav Mandir located in Bharonath is one of the most mysterious and interesting temples of Varanasi. Popularly known as Kashi ke Kotwal (Kōtavāla) that translates to the guardian or officer of Kashi, this temple is said to have existed since the ancient times.   Legend has it that one time Lord Vishnu and... Continue Reading →
  50. On the history trail: The Karnatak Campaign (Capture of the Fort of Kopbal) by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (8/27/2021) - Though Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was at peace with Bijapur, the threat of a Mughal invasion loomed large. It was necessary to arrange for more funds to support the army and man the forts. Maharaj conceived a plan for acquiring territory down south in the rainy season of 1676 as he resided in Panhala.   Ekoji,... Continue Reading →
  51. Kashikhanda: Annapurna Devi Mandir, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (9/1/2021) - Mata Annapurneshwari Temple, located near Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Vishwanath Gali area is one of the oldest temples of Kashi. This sacred temple is dedicated to Annapurna Devi also known as Bhavani Devi by the locals and is revered as the Goddess who bestows annam (food) or alms which in reality represents knowledge and dispassion.... Continue Reading →
  52. On the history trail: The Karnatak Campaign (Forts of Gingee and Vellore captured) by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (9/3/2021) - Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, pursuant to the arrangement made by Raghunath Pant with the ministers of Golkonda court headed to Bhagyanagar from Raigad at the end of January 1677 leaving Moropant Pingle and Annaji Datto in charge of the Deccan. The presence of Maharaj and his mighty army alarmed the citizens of the city who went... Continue Reading →
  53. Kashikhanda: Sri Tripura Bhairavi Mandir, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (9/8/2021) - One of the most ancient and lesser-known temples of Varanasi located in Vishwanath Gali is the Sri Tripura Bhairavi Mandir. As the name suggests, this form of Divine Mother is the fifth manifestation in the Dasha Mahavidya.   This unique form of Divine Mother is written about in detail in the Kashi Khanda of the Skanda Purana as... Continue Reading →
  54. Kashikhanda: Pita Maheshwar Mandir, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (9/15/2021) - One of the most unusual temples of Varanasi is the Pita Maheshwar Mandir located in Sheetla Gali. As the name suggests, this temple is dedicated to Parama Pita Maheshwar Mahadev, the Father of Lord Shiva! As astounding as it sounds, this temple has been described in detail in the Kashi Khanda of the Skanda Purana as... Continue Reading →
  55. On the history trail: The Grand Meeting of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj with Ekoji I (Vyankoji Bhonsle) (9/17/2021) - After the decisive rout of Sher Khan Lodhi, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj headed towards Tanjore to meet his half-brother Ekoji to effect a reasonable division of their father’s holdings. He encamped at Tirumalavadi (Thirumalvadi) that lies on the north bank of the Coleroon River, a few miles from Tanjore.   As Maharaj was awaiting the arrival... Continue Reading →
  56. Kashikhanda: Panchkroshi Yatra: Kardameshwar Mahadev Temple, Kandwa, Varanasi District, Uttar Pradesh (9/22/2021) - One of the oldest surviving temples of Varanasi that holds the rare distinction of escaping the ruthless desecration by Muslim invaders especially the Mughals is the Kardameshwar Mahadev Mandir located near Kandwa Pokhra. This ancient Shiva Temple that forms a part of the sacrosanct Panchkroshi Yatra is one of the best preserved temples of Varanasi.... Continue Reading →
  57. Kashikhanda: Panchkroshi Yatra: Bhimchandi Mandir, Bhimchandi Village, Varanasi District, Uttar Pradesh (9/29/2021) - The Kashi Panchkroshi Yatra is considered to be one of the oldest pilgrimage routes of the world. According to the Hindu scriptures, Lord Rama along with Sita Mata and his brothers had visited the important tirthsthalas on this ancient route to liberate his father Raja Dasharatha from the curse of the parents of Shravana Kumar (Putrashoka).... Continue Reading →
  58. Kashikhanda: Panchkroshi Yatra: Rameshwar Mandir, Rameshwar Village, Varanasi District, Uttar Pradesh (10/6/2021) - The next stop on the sacrosanct Kashi Panchkroshi Yatra after Kardameshwar Mahadev Mandir and Bhimchandi Mandir is the ancient Rameshwar Mandir situated on the bank of the Varuna River in Rameshwar village. This temple of great antiquity is considered by many to be the most important kshetra or tirthasthala in the Panchkroshi Yatra.   According to the Kashi Khanda... Continue Reading →
  59. Kashikhanda: Panchkroshi Yatra: Shivpur Temple, Shivpur Village, Varanasi District, Uttar Pradesh (10/13/2021) - The fourth paṛāva (halt) of the sacrosanct Kashi Panchkroshi Yatra is the Pancho Pandava Mandir (Pancha Pandeshwar Mandir) located in the bustling Shivpur village. After having darshan at Kardameshwar Mahadev Mandir, Bhimchandi Mandir and Rameshwar Mandir, pilgrims head to Draupadi Kund that is located near a huge tank known as Manasarovar tirth.   According to the... Continue Reading →
  60. Kashikhanda: Panchkroshi Yatra: Kapildhara Temple (Kapileshwar Mahadev Mandir), Kapildhara, Varanasi District, Uttar Pradesh (10/20/2021) - The fifth and final paṛāva (halt) of the divine Kashi Panchkroshi Yatra is the Kapildhara Temple also known as Kapileshwar Mahadev Mandir. After offering prayers at Kardameshwar Mahadev Mandir, Bhimchandi Mandir, Rameshwar Mandir and Shivpur Mandir, devotees take a dip in the three ancient ponds of Sona Talab, Saranga Talab and Kapildhara Talab that are at the final... Continue Reading →
  61. The Chapekar Brothers (12/17/2021) - The parasitic British managed to establish their control by the late 1800s and brought in a slew of draconian measures designed to fill their coffers while tormenting the true and rightful owners of the lands and riches of Akhanda Bharat. A fateful pandemic of plague swept the nation in 1896 – 97, particularly the state of Maharashtra.... Continue Reading →
  62. Martyr Vasudev Balwant Phadke (12/24/2021) - The year of 1818 was momentous for Akhanda Bharat with the British managing to snuff out the Maratha Empire from under the Peshwas. Though the British thought that they had displaced a Muslim invader from the seat of power, the truth is that it was the Maratha Empire whose expanse and influence across Akhanda Bharat that... Continue Reading →
  63. Martyr Jatindranath Das, Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Martyr Shivaram Hari Rajguru and Freedom Fighter Batukeshwar Dutt (12/31/2021) - From 1818, the British surreptitiously robbed Akhanda Bharat of its treasures, artefacts, rare jewels, gems and crowns, art and sculptures. A sizeable portion made its way back to their country while the remaining was placed in the British government treasury. When information was leaked that money rightfully belonging to Indians was looted by the British... Continue Reading →
  64. History of Banaras – Part I (1/7/2022) - Banaras, the golden city of knowledge, wisdom, spirituality and Advaita, has from the ancient times been considered to be one of the most sacrosanct places of Akhanda Bharat. This glorious city has a rich history that can be traced back to the time of creation.   Archaeological excavations have uncovered rare artefacts from the Vedic Period... Continue Reading →
  65. History of Banaras – Part II (1/28/2022) - The stature of Benares as the seat of learning, knowledge and wisdom grew under the patronage of the Maukharis of Kannauj, Gurjara-Pratiharas and the mighty Kalachuris towards the end of the 10th century.   The period of the Kalachuris is often referred to as the golden era in the city’s history marked with the construction... Continue Reading →
  66. History of Banaras – Part III (Trail of destruction by the Delhi Sultanate) (2/4/2022) - The second attack by the Muslim invader Qutb al-Din Aibak in 1197 – 98 effectively ended the golden period of the Gahadavalas and established a violent intolerant Muslim rule that was determined to destroy every trace of the glorious heritage of Kashi. Kashi, a city that has existed since the dawn of creation grew in... Continue Reading →
  67. History of Banaras – Part IV (Plunder and destruction by the Mughals) (2/11/2022) - It is difficult to ascertain the extent of damage inflicted by the Delhi Sultanate, but a fair number of mosques and tombs built on the sites of temples during this period using the stones of the temples demolished are still visible in the city. It has been documented that Razia Sultana had built a mosque... Continue Reading →
  68. History of Banaras – Part V (Atrocities and bloodbath by Aurangzeb) (2/18/2022) - Aurangzeb seized absolute control of the throne in 1661 after murdering Dara Shikoh, instigating the execution of Shah Shuja in the hands of local rulers of Burma, executing his younger brother Murad Bakhsh in jail and imprisoning his father, Shah Jahan.   Memoirs and court records graphically describe his fanaticism and deep roots in Islamic... Continue Reading →
  69. History of Banaras – Part VI (Contribution by the Marathas) (2/25/2022) - Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1666 had taken refuge in the ancient city of Benares after his miraculous escape from captivity. He was most distressed on seeing the fear in the eyes of Hindus who had suffered immensely in the hands of the Mughals. Even though Raje desired to rebuild Kashi after the horrific desecration in... Continue Reading →
  70. History of Banaras – Part VII (Conclusion) (2/25/2022) - अयोध्या मथुरा माया काशी काञ्ची अवन्तिका । पुरी द्वारावती चैव सप्तैते मोक्षदायकाः॥ Kashi, a name that evokes a multitude of emotions ranging from bliss, joy, ecstasy, love and relief is the city that promises liberation. Since the dawn of time, Kashi has been considered to be the centre of learning, knowledge, wisdom and Advaita. Sages,... Continue Reading →
  71. On the history trail: Bloody beginning to Chhatrapati Sambhaji’s reign (3/25/2022) - Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was a genius way ahead of his time. In the midst of uncertainty, savagery, brutalism and widespread plunder by the desert barbarian, Aurangzeb, Shivaji Raje was a beacon of hope for Hindus. He was a self-taught man who had no experience in the workings of a great capital or court or camp... Continue Reading →
  72. On the history trail: Muhammad Akbar rebels against Aurangzeb and seeks refuge in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj (4/1/2022) - The year of 1679 saw Aurangzeb begin a full-fledged war against the princes of Rajputana. Though, the Rajputs had always sworn allegiance to the Mughals since the time of Babur, Aurangzeb wished to stamp his authority on this rich region and annex it to the Mughal empire.   Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was quick to denounce... Continue Reading →
  73. On the history trail: Aurangzeb fails to capture key Maratha forts (Siege of Ramsej) (4/8/2022) - Though it is indeed difficult to comprehend how and why the largely Hindu Rajput kings swore allegiance to the Muslim invaders from the time of Babur, power and wealth since time immemorial have been dangerous temptations that have successfully enticed many to swerve from their rightful duty to their Motherland. Such was the case with... Continue Reading →
  74. On the history trail: Aurangzeb captures Bijapur and Golconda after failing to make inroads in the Maratha territory (4/15/2022) - The year of 1682 – 1683 presented Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj a great opportunity to strike a mentally and physically weak Aurangzeb either at his treasured palace or as Muhammad Akbar suggested to ride through Gujarat into Rajputana. It is unclear why Sambhaji Raje did not take advantage of Aurangzeb’s invasion but one surmise that it... Continue Reading →
  75. On the history trail: Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj subjugates the Portuguese in regal fashion (4/22/2022) - Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s bloody beginning gradually eased into a more restrained reign and he began his operations on the Siddi of Janjira and the Portuguese of Chaul who had been cowed into submission by Aurangzeb in his typical tyrannical manner.   The Siddi has been appointed as Aurangzeb’s admiral and was egged on to step... Continue Reading →
  76. On the history trail: Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj betrayed and captured by Aurangzeb at Sangameshwar (4/29/2022) - The wily Aurangzeb continued to put pressure on the Marathas by despatching Shahâb ud-Din and his son, Chin Qilich Kamaruddin Khan to grab their territory in North Konkan and Baglan. Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was outraged on hearing the devious tactics employed by father and son to win over the Marathas.   He launched a furious... Continue Reading →
  77. On the history trail: Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj tortured to death in the most barbaric way ever seen by Aurangzeb (5/6/2022) - Shock, quickly followed by a wild outburst of rejoicing was witnessed when Aurangzeb and his men received the news of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s capture at Akluj. The young king who had tried his best to follow in the footsteps of his father, the late Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj had terrorized Aurangzeb and the Mughals in his... Continue Reading →
  78. On the history trail: Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj’s reign begins (5/13/2022) - With the tragic death of Shree Dharamveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, Aurangzeb’s lifelong dream of capturing the Deccan was fulfilled. The whole territory from the Narmada to the Tungabhadra lay at his feet. However, the savagery of the desert barbarian Aurangzeb hardened the hearts of the Marathas and impelled them to protect their own and their... Continue Reading →
  79. On the history trail: The fall of Raigad and the extraordinary leadership of Ramchandra Pant Amatya (5/20/2022) - Raigad, one of the most impregnable forts of all the Maratha forts had been made largely inaccessible by the natural defences of Mother Earth. This fort was constructed on a large plateau with enough food, cattle and supplies required for a large military presence to hold out for a long time.   In fact, this... Continue Reading →
  80. On the history trail: Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj heads to Gingee (5/27/2022) - With mounting pressure and constant assaults on the Marathas by the Mughals, Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj revisited his strategy of staying put in Panhala. The situation was getting increasingly dangerous for him and his men and it was decided that they would make their way to the safe haven of Jinji in the Deccan.   Jinji... Continue Reading →
  81. On the history trail: Aurangzeb is displeased that Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj has made Gingee the new Maratha power (6/3/2022) - The shift of the Maratha power to Gingee created serious problems for Aurangzeb. It would be difficult for his men to receive information on what was happening within the four walls of Gingee. He decided to act quickly to put down the rising Maratha power.   He left his camp of Koregaon on 18 December... Continue Reading →
  82. On the history trail: Gingee besieged and captured (6/10/2022) - Zulfiqar Khan after capturing Maharani Yesubai and young Shahu was immediately despatched to pursue Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj as he left for the Deccan. He left Aurangzeb’s camp on 30 November 1689 and arrived at Gingee in June 1690 and laid siege to the fort.   The siege lasted for 8 years and is probably one... Continue Reading →
  83. On the history trail: The heroism of Sarsenapati Santaji Ghorpade (6/17/2022) - As the siege of Jinji dragged on languidly, Aurangzeb became increasingly exasperated with both Zulfiqar Khan and his father, Asad Khan. He bemoaned the inability of his army to overcome the guerrilla tactics of the Marathas. Zulfiqar Khan had been given two clear tasks namely to capture Gingee and Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj and so far,... Continue Reading →
  84. On the history trail: Marathas fight back at Jinji (6/24/2022) - With the Mughals hot on their trail and mounting pressure every day, the Marathas focussed on their primary goal to create a safe passage for Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj from Gingee and save him from a fate similar to his brother’s and liberate the Maratha lands from the Mughal control.   Aurangzeb was not one to... Continue Reading →
  85. On the history trail: An Infusion of Religious Fervour by Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj (7/1/2022) - The primary aim of the Marathas during this perilous period of war with Aurangzeb was to convince their Hindu brothers who had joined the Mughal service to return to their king to defend the Maharashtra dharma. Hindavi Swarajya, the ambitious goal of the late Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was designed to throw out the Muslim invaders... Continue Reading →
  86. On the history trail: The legendary guerrilla warfare of the Marathas (8/5/2022) - The tragic death of Santaji Ghorpade brought great joy to the Mughal camps who had lived in constant fear of him and his wrath on the battlefield. Santaji Ghorpade is undoubtedly one of the greatest masters of guerrilla warfare Akhanda Bharat has ever seen.   His brilliant tactics, unwavering courage in the most perilous situations and... Continue Reading →
  87. On the history trail: Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj’s reign (8/12/2022) - Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj managed to elude the Mughal parties stationed around Jinji and proceeded to Vishalgad. He had sent offers of peace directly to Aurangzeb which were declined. As war raged on relentlessly, Rajaram Raje reached the Maratha land and decided that a new seat of power needs to be established.   As both Raigad... Continue Reading →
  88. On the history trail: Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj’s death (8/19/2022) - Just as the Marathas looked poised to reclaim their lost lands and begin the final battle for Akhanda Bharat, tragedy struck. Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj who had fought tirelessly against the Mughals found the strain of camp life unbearable and his health began to fail rapidly.   He became so ill during the march that he had... Continue Reading →
  89. On the history trail: Maharani Tarabai leads the Marathas (8/26/2022) - Upon hearing Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj’s sudden demise, Ramchandra Pant Amatya headed to Sinhagad and conveyed the news to the various officers and generals requesting them to continue their good work and perform their respective duties as before. He appealed to them to exert themselves with more fervour and reminded them of their ambitious goal of... Continue Reading →
  90. On the history trail: Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath and Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj (9/2/2022) - The demise of Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj and the ascendance of Maharani Tarabai changed the state of affairs in the Deccan. Aurangzeb had been successful in setting up a well-oiled administration to look after the matters of the Marathas.   The prominent families of the territory between Satara and Aurangabad had accepted the sovereignty of Aurangzeb... Continue Reading →
  91. On the history trail: Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj leaves the Mughal camp (9/9/2022) - The tyrannical reign of Akhanda Bharat’s worst and most radical Islamic barbarian, Aurangzeb finally came to an end on 20 February 1707. The fanatical Mughal had spent more than twenty-five years of his life draining the coffers while attempting to subdue the indomitable Marathas.   The long-drawn war of independence would start taking shape under the leadership... Continue Reading →
  92. On the history trail: Battle of Khed (9/23/2022) - Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj was in for a big disappointment. His aunt Maharani Tarabai did not acknowledge him as the rightful heir to the throne as she felt that the kingdom which was once ruled by his late father Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj had been lost to her late husband Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj and his son, young... Continue Reading →
  93. On the history trail: Coronation of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj at Satara (9/30/2022) - Shahu Raje lost no time in marching towards Satara after defeating the mighty army of Maharani Tarabai, halting for a short period at Shirwal. The faithful follower of Maharani, Sachiv Shankaraji Narayan had his official residence in Fort Rohida near Bhor. Shahu Raje asked him to either surrender or face the consequences of refusal.  ... Continue Reading →
  94. On the history trail: Balaji Vishwanath shows his mettle (10/7/2022) - Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj made an aggressive start to secure the northern portions of his patrimony. He deputed Pratinidhi Gadadhar Pralhad and Senapati Dhanaji Jadhav to Baglan and Khandesh with his trusted aide Balaji Vishwanath. They decisively vanquished the local Mughal officers like Karim Beg of Junnar and plundered the city of its riches.   They... Continue Reading →
  95. History of the Prachin Shiv Mandir at Agra – Part I (The Myth of the Taj Mahal) (10/21/2022) - Lazy and uninformed “historians” of Indian (commissioned by the British Raj) and British origin have done an outstanding job for over three centuries to whitewash our glorious Hindu heritage and relegate the contributions of our valorous Hindu kings to obscurity. A concerted effort to prevent one from learning about Hinduism, the oldest civilization in the... Continue Reading →
  96. History of the Prachin Shiv Mandir at Agra – Part II (The Myth of the Taj Mahal) (10/28/2022) - Since the ancient times, it has been the practice of Hindu kings to assiduously follow the tenets as laid down in the Shilpa Shastra while building forts, palaces, mansions, temples and dharmashalas. Traditionally, these grand structures were built along river banks, seashores or lakes to observe the obligatory rites and rituals of the Hindu scriptures.  ... Continue Reading →
  97. On the history trail: Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath and Sarkhel Kanhoji Angre (11/25/2022) - Balaji Vishwanath had already proved to be indispensable to Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj in a short time and further strengthened his bond by winning over a great adversary in resources, valour and skill namely Kanhoji Angre. Kanhoji Angre, the wiliest admiral of the Western Coast and head of the Maratha Navy is undisputedly the true champion,... Continue Reading →
  98. On the history trail: Shankaraji Malhar and Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj (12/2/2022) - Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj’s position remained insecure for a few years after the passing away of Bahadur Shah I. He was unable to find a suitable candidate for the all-important position of Senapati and became increasingly dependent on Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath. Dhanaji’s son, Chandrasen who had been given the position was openly animus towards Shahu Raje and... Continue Reading →
  99. On the history trail: A peace treaty signed by Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj with the Mughals (12/9/2022) - One of the main reasons Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj agreed to a peace treaty with Sayyid Husain Ali was to secure the release of his mother Maharani Yesubai, wife Savitribai and brother Madansinh who were held hostage in Delhi. Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath and Shankaraji Malhar cleverly put in the stipulation to that effect in return for... Continue Reading →
  100. On the history trail: Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath heads to Delhi (12/16/2022) - Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj’s primary concern after signing a peace treaty with Sayyid Husain Ali was to ensure that his mother Maharani Yesubai, wife Savitribai and brother Madansinh who were held hostage in Delhi would be released immediately. He had already deputed Parasnis Yadavrao Prabhu to Delhi to arrange for the release in 1715.   After... Continue Reading →

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