The Inspiring Life and Legacy of Jijabai Shahaji Bhonsale
The story of Jijabai Shahaji Bhonsale, the revered mother of Shivaji Maharaj, is one of strength, wisdom, and unwavering devotion. Her life is a testament to the power of a mother's influence in shaping the values, bravery, and principles of her children. In this article, we will delve into her early life, struggles, and the profound impact she had on the creation of the Maratha Empire.
Introduction to Jijabai's Life
This is the beginning of Jijabai's story, a tale of courage and perseverance
Many of those who watch this video must have seen the movie Chhatrapati starring Prabhas, where the hero's mother tells him about the greatness of Chhatrapati Shivaji when he was young. Shivaji Shahaji Bhonsle, who digested the words of that same mother and walked the path shown by that great mother, became Chhatrapati Shivaji. That's why I say that if it weren't for a great mother like Jijabai, our country would not have had a warrior like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
The Great Mother Behind the Great Warrior
Jijabai's influence on Shivaji's life and legacy
Jijabai's story is as inspiring as the lives of Shivaji Maharaj and Sambhaji Maharaj. The heroic mother who made her son a hero, the royal mother who made her grandson a hero. Jijabai is a living example of what a mother should be like. She was not only a great mother figure but also a royal philosopher who planned for the survival of the Maratha Empire. Her husband left her at a young age, and she lost many family members, including her eldest son. Despite these hardships, she remained unbroken and continued to inspire her son and grandson to fight for their country.
Jijabai's Childhood and Married Life
Jijabai's early life and marriage
Jijabai was born on January 12, 1598, in the Buldhana region of Maharashtra. Since childhood, Jijabai was devoted to her family and country. She cherished the epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata and told Shivaji about them with great enthusiasm. Her marriage to Shahaji Bhonsle was not an easy one, as it was a result of a childhood incident where Jijabai spilled colored water on Shahaji during the Holi festival. Shahaji's family and Jijabai's family had a complicated relationship, which ultimately led to Shahaji marrying Jijabai out of revenge.
Jijabai's Role in Shaping Shivaji's Life
Jijabai's influence on Shivaji's military training
Jijabai played a crucial role in shaping Shivaji's life and training him for the establishment of Hindu Swaraj. She was a brave woman who dreamed of Hindu Swaraj while preparing her son for national interests. She introduced the gorilla method to Shivaji Maharaj, which he used to defeat the vast army of Afzal Khan. Jijabai's war tactics were immense, and she added her ingenuity and intelligence to the gorilla method, making Shivaji an undisputed leader in wars.
Jijabai's Legacy and Impact
Jijabai's lasting impact on Indian history
Jijabai's legacy extends far beyond her son and grandson. She is a symbol of the strength and resilience of Indian women. Her story is a testament to the power of a mother's influence in shaping the values and principles of her children. Jijabai's contributions to the creation of the Maratha Empire and the preservation of Hindu society are immense. She will remain in history as long as the Sanatana Dharma of India breathes.
Jijabai's Impact on Sambhaji Maharaj
Jijabai's influence on Sambhaji Maharaj's life
Jijabai also played a significant role in shaping Sambhaji Maharaj's life. She raised him as her own son after his mother's death and taught him the importance of Hindu scriptures and martial arts. Jijabai's influence on Sambhaji Maharaj's life is a testament to her strength and resilience as a mother and a grandmother.
The Coronation of Shivaji Maharaj
The coronation of Shivaji Maharaj
Shivaji Maharaj was crowned in 1674, and Jijabai's joy knew no bounds. She had finally seen her son achieve his dream of establishing a Hindu kingdom. However, her happiness was short-lived, as she passed away on June 17, 1674, just 12 days after Shivaji Maharaj's coronation.
Conclusion
Jijabai's lasting legacy
Jijabai's story is a testament to the power of a mother's influence in shaping the values and principles of her children. Her legacy extends far beyond her son and grandson, and she will remain in history as a symbol of the strength and resilience of Indian women. Today, India takes her as an inspiration and gives Nari Shakti Awards to women who embody her spirit. Let us all join in saying Jai Bhavani, Jai Jagadambe, Jai Bharat, and Jai Jijabai.