
The Escape of Shivaji Maharaj
By Sanjeev

19 Mar, 2024

In the grand city of Agra, an eminent guest was held in captivity by Emperor Aurangzeb. This guest was none other than Shivaji Maharaj, the brave and wise king of the Maratha Empire.

Kept under strict surveillance, Shivaji Maharaj realised escape was the only way to save his kingdom. He began to formulate a daring plan.

He started receiving large baskets of sweets from his homeland, ostensibly as gifts for the Emperor's court. However, the true purpose was something entirely different.

Shivaji's son, Sambhaji, was also held captive with him. The young prince, though worried, had faith in his father's plans.

One day, Shivaji Maharaj feigned severe illness, causing a stir in the royal court. Aurangzeb sent his personal physicians to treat the Maratha king.

The physicians declared that Shivaji Maharaj was suffering from a contagious disease. As a result, the guards were reduced around his quarters.

Shivaji Maharaj's plan began to unfold. The baskets of sweets were now used to smuggle tools and messages to aid in the escape.

One day, under the guise of the illness, Shivaji Maharaj and Sambhaji secretly escaped from the fort, hiding in the large baskets.

As the baskets were being transported out of the fort, the guards, fearing the contagious disease, did not dare to check them.

Once outside the fort, Shivaji Maharaj and Sambhaji quickly changed into disguise and began their arduous journey back to their homeland.

They travelled mostly during the night to avoid detection and navigated through dense forests and rocky terrains.

After several days of travel, they finally reached the boundaries of their kingdom. The sight of their homeland filled them with overwhelming joy.

Meanwhile, back in Agra, Aurangzeb was shocked and furious upon discovering the escape of his captives. He immediately ordered his men to find and bring them back.

However, Shivaji Maharaj had already reached his kingdom and began fortifying his defenses. He prepared his army for a possible attack from the Mughals.

The news of Shivaji Maharaj's daring escape spread across the kingdom. His people, filled with joy and admiration, welcomed their beloved king back.

Despite the threat of the Mughals, Shivaji Maharaj was undeterred. He vowed to protect his kingdom and his people at all costs.

His courage and strategic brilliance became an inspiring tale for the people of his kingdom and beyond. His escape from Agra was a testament to his unwavering spirit.

Sambhaji, inspired by his father's bravery, pledged to follow in his footsteps. He was determined to uphold the legacy of the Maratha Empire.

Shivaji Maharaj's escape from Agra was not just a daring escape, it was a beacon of hope for his people, a symbol of resilience and courage.

His story is a reminder that no matter how daunting the circumstances, with a clever mind and a brave heart, one can overcome any challenge.

The tale of Shivaji Maharaj's escape from Agra continues to inspire generations, reinforcing the indomitable spirit of the Maratha king.

The legacy of Shivaji Maharaj lives on, not just in the hearts of his people, but in the pages of history, immortalizing him as a symbol of courage and wisdom.