The Unbreakable Spirit of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj: 336 Years of His Martyrdom

Who Was Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj?

Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the second ruler of the Maratha Empire. Known for his intelligence, military prowess, and unshakable spirit, he resisted Mughal rule and expanded Maratha influence. His legacy remains an inspiration for patriotism and the struggle for freedom.

The Betrayal That Led to His Capture

Sambhaji Maharaj was not just a warrior; he was a brilliant strategist and a wise ruler who carried forward the vision of his father, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. However, in 1689, he was betrayed by the Shirke family, which led to his capture. Mughal general Mukarab Khan took advantage of this and launched a surprise attack in Sangameshwar, capturing Sambhaji Maharaj and his trusted aide, Kavi Kalash. The two were chained and taken before Aurangzeb. But the Mughal emperor had made a mistake—he had not captured a mere man, but a lion who would rather die than surrender.

The chapter titled “Capture and Execution of Sambhaji” exposes Aurangzeb’s fanaticism and his relentless desire to humiliate the Hindu king. It begins with the statement, “News that Muslims had been awaiting for years finally reached their ears—Sambhaji had been captured.”

The Horrific Tortures Inflicted Upon Sambhaji Maharaj

“Mukarabh Khan’s son Ikhlas khan went inside the Haveli and dragged Sambhaji Maharaj and Kavi Kalash by their hair and 25 of Maharaj’s chief followers and their wives were made prisoners“

Aurangzeb saw Sambhaji Maharaj’s capture as a way to destroy the Maratha resistance. He demanded that Sambhaji reveal Maratha military secrets and convert to Islam. However, the emperor underestimated his strength and determination.

For days, Sambhaji Maharaj endured some of the worst tortures in history:

For days, Sambhaji Maharaj endured some of the worst tortures in history:

He was made to wear iron chains and paraded through the streets to break his spirit.

His eyes were gouged out to blind him.

His fingernails were pulled out, causing unbearable pain.

His skin was torn using iron hooks, leaving deep wounds.

Boiling oil was poured into his wounds to make him suffer more.

He was starved and forced to wear a cap made of thorns that dug into his head.

His tongue was cut off to stop him from speaking words of defiance.

Despite these unimaginable torments, Sambhaji Maharaj stood firm, never giving in to the demands of his captors. His bravery shook Aurangzeb. The emperor, realizing he could not break him, ordered his execution in the most brutal manner possible.

On March 11, 1689, after days of merciless torture, Sambhaji Maharaj was publicly executed in Tulapur. His body was cut into pieces and thrown into the river to prevent his followers from giving him a proper burial. Aurangzeb hoped to erase his memory, but instead, his martyrdom became a rallying cry for the Marathas, igniting a fierce resistance against Mughal rule.

Martyrdom That Sparked a Revolution

Aurangzeb believed that executing Sambhaji Maharaj would crush the Marathas. Instead, it had the opposite effect. His brutal killing enraged the Marathas, fueling their determination to take revenge. Over the next 27 years, the Marathas fought back fiercely, ultimately ensuring that Aurangzeb’s dream of destroying them ended in failure. The once-mighty emperor spent his final years in a losing battle, dying in 1707 in Ahmednagar, humiliated and defeated.

Hidden Facts That History Often Ignores

• Sambhaji Maharaj was a scholar as well as a warrior, fluent in Sanskrit, Persian, and multiple languages. His deep knowledge of governance, war strategy, and administration made him a powerful ruler.
• Aurangzeb feared his legacy, so he banned any public mourning for Sambhaji, afraid that even in death, he would inspire rebellion.
• The Marathas avenged his death with great determination—under the leadership of Rajaram Maharaj and later the Peshwas, they fought back and ensured the eventual downfall of the Mughal Empire.
• Sambhaji’s courage shook Aurangzeb—it is said that after his execution, Aurangzeb admitted he had underestimated the Marathas’ spirit.
• His sacrifice became the turning point for the Marathas, inspiring them to rise stronger and eventually rule over most of India.

Chhava – Bringing Sambhaji Maharaj’s Story to the Big Screen

The much-awaited movie Chhava is set to bring the life and sacrifice of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj to modern audiences. Directed by top filmmakers and featuring leading Bollywood actors, the film promises to portray his bravery and tragic martyrdom in a powerful and visually stunning way.

The film aims to reveal lesser-known aspects of his life, such as his leadership, military skills, and deep devotion to Swarajya. With growing excitement around Chhava, it is clear that Sambhaji Maharaj’s story is as relevant today as ever, reminding people of his courage and sacrifice.

A Legacy That Lives On

Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s martyrdom is not just a part of history—it is a legend of courage, patriotism, and resistance against tyranny. His strength, faith, and love for Swarajya continue to inspire millions. While some historical accounts try to downplay his sacrifice, his heroism stands tall as proof of the Maratha Empire’s unbreakable spirit.

As we remember his supreme sacrifice 336 years later, it is our duty to honor his legacy, preserve his story, and draw inspiration from his fearless example. Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s spirit lives on, a guiding force for all who believe in freedom, justice, and the defense of their land.