**Chhatrapati Sambhaji Raje**

Also known as **Sambhaji Maharaj**, was the second ruler of the Maratha Empire and the eldest son of the great Maratha king **Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj**. He was born on **May 14, 1657**, at Purandar Fort. Sambhaji Maharaj is remembered as a brave warrior, a scholar, and a fearless defender of Swarajya (self-rule), who sacrificed his life for his people and principles.Sambhaji Maharaj's childhood was marked by difficulties. His mother, **Saibai**, passed away when he was very young, and he was raised under the care of his grandmother, **Rajmata Jijabai**, who instilled in him strong values ​​of courage, discipline, and dedication to Swarajya. From a young age, Sambhaji displayed exceptional intelligence and bravery. He received rigorous training in warfare, administration, and diplomacy, along with a profound education in languages ​​and literature.Sambhaji Maharaj was a highly educated ruler. He was proficient in **Sanskrit, Marathi, Persian, Hindi, and several other languages**. He was also a scholar and authored literary works such as **"Budhabhushanam,"** a Sanskrit treatise on politics and governance. This highlights that Sambhaji was not only a warrior but also a thinker who understood statecraft and ethical leadership.After the death of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in **1680**, Sambhaji Maharaj faced immense challenges. Internal conspiracies, opposition from some chieftains, and the constant threat from the powerful **Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb** made his ascension to the throne difficult. Despite these obstacles, Sambhaji Maharaj was crowned **Chhatrapati** in **1681** and assumed the responsibility of defending the Maratha Empire.

As a ruler, Sambhaji Maharaj adopted a courageous and aggressive military policy. He led several successful campaigns against the **Mughals, the Portuguese, the Siddhis of Janjira, and the Wodeyars of Mysore**. His attacks on Mughal territories inflicted significant damage on Aurangzeb, forcing the Mughal emperor to personally lead a massive army into the Deccan. Sambhaji's guerrilla warfare tactics kept the Mughal forces under constant pressure.Sambhaji Maharaj was a staunch protector of **Hindu culture and religious freedom**. He also believed in justice and did not tolerate forced conversions or religious persecution. His opposition to Aurangzeb was not merely political but also ideological, as he opposed the Mughal emperor's policies of religious intolerance and imperial dominance.The most defining aspect of Sambhaji Maharaj's reign was his unwavering courage. Despite facing betrayal and difficult circumstances, he never gave up. In **1689**, due to treachery, Sambhaji Maharaj was captured by the Mughal army. Aurangzeb attempted to break his spirit through torture and humiliation, demanding that he convert to Islam and surrender the Maratha forts.Sambhaji Maharaj categorically refused. Despite enduring days of horrific physical torture, he remained steadfast in his beliefs and his loyalty to Swaraj (self-rule). By refusing to submit to Aurangzeb, he demonstrated extraordinary bravery and dedication to his ideals. Ultimately, Sambhaji Maharaj was executed on **March 11, 1689**. His martyrdom shook the Maratha empire but also ignited a strong spirit of resistance among the Marathas.

Sambhaji Maharaj's sacrifice became a pivotal moment in Maratha history. His death united the Marathas and inspired future leaders such as **Rajaram Maharaj**, **Tarabai**, and later the **Peshwas** to continue the struggle against the Mughal Empire. Aurangzeb's long Deccan campaign ultimately weakened the Mughal Empire, while the Marathas emerged as a major power in India.Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj is remembered as **"Dharmveer,"** the protector of Dharma and freedom. His life symbolizes courage, sacrifice, wisdom, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Although his reign was short, he left a profound impact on Indian history. He proved that true leadership lies in remaining steadfast to one's principles, even in the face of death.Today, Sambhaji Maharaj is revered as a national hero. His life continues to inspire millions across India, reminding them of the value of freedom, self-respect, and fearless resistance against injustice.If you would like this in a **simpler, more academic, or Marathi** version, I can rewrite it accordingly.

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