The Tragic Betrayal and Heroic Sacrifice of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the valiant Maratha warrior and son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, stands as a symbol of courage and resistance in Indian history.
Ascending the Maratha throne in 1680, he inherited a kingdom under constant threat from the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. Despite facing relentless attacks, Sambhaji fiercely defended his empire, embodying the spirit of Hindavi Swarajya—self-rule for the Marathas.
Tragically, his reign ended due to a devastating betrayal from within. Ganoji Shirke, his brother-in-law, succumbed to greed and jealousy, colluding with Aurangzeb to reveal Sambhaji’s location at Sangameshwar in 1689.
This act led to Sambhaji’s capture on February 1, 1689, marking a dark turn in Maratha history.What followed was a brutal display of Mughal cruelty. Sambhaji endured weeks of unimaginable torture—his eyes were gouged, tongue severed, and flesh torn—yet he remained unyielding.
He refused to convert to Islam or bow to Aurangzeb’s demands. His defiant last words, “If you have the courage, show it on the battlefield, not on a tied lion,” echoed his indomitable spirit.
Ultimately, he was hacked to death limb by limb, alongside his advisor Kavi Kalash.Ganoji Shirke’s treachery brought him no reward; Aurangzeb discarded him, and the Marathas branded him a symbol of disgrace.
Sambhaji’s sacrifice, however, galvanized his people, strengthening their resolve to resist Mughal oppression.
His legacy endures as a testament to bravery, resilience, and the perils of internal betrayal, inspiring generations with his unwavering commitment to his kingdom and faith.
