Chapter 01
Early Life & Heritage
Birth & Naming
Birth at Shivneri
Shivaji was born in the hill-fort of Shivneri near Junnar, Pune district, on 19 February 1630. He was named after a local deity, the Goddess Shivai Devi. He belonged to a Maratha family of the Bhonsle clan.
Parents & Inspiration
The Dream of Swarajya
His father, Shahaji Bhonsle, was a Maratha general who served the Deccan Sultanates. His mother, Jijabai, was a deeply influential figure who imbued the young Shivaji with the dream of re-establishing a Hindu kingdom. During his early years in Poona, Dadoji Kondadeo served as the administrator before Shivaji took over in 1647.
