On June 17, we solemnly observe the death anniversary, or Punyatithi, of Rajmata Jijabai Shahaji Bhosale, a towering figure in Indian history and the mother of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. Known affectionately as Jijau or Rajmata, her life was a testament to courage, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to the cause of Hindavi Swarajya (Hindu self-rule). Jijabai’s contributions as a mother, warrior, administrator, and visionary continue to inspire generations, making her an enduring symbol of strength and patriotism.
Early Life and Background
Born on January 12, 1598, in Deulgaon near Sindkhed, in present-day Buldhana district of Maharashtra, Jijabai was the daughter of Lakhujirao Jadhav, a prominent noble in the Ahmadnagar Sultanate, and Mahalasabai Jadhav. Hailing from the illustrious Yadav lineage of Devgiri, Jijabai was raised with a deep sense of pride in her heritage. At a young age, she was married to Shahaji Bhosale, a distinguished military commander serving under the Nizam Shah. Despite her husband’s allegiance to the Adil Shahi Sultanate, Jijabai harbored a fierce desire for independence, despising subjugation under foreign rule. This conviction became the cornerstone of her life’s mission.
A Guiding Force in Shaping Shivaji Maharaj
Jijabai’s most profound contribution was her role in molding her son, Shivaji, into the visionary leader who established the Maratha Empire. As a single mother after Shahaji’s relocation to Karnataka, Jijabai took on the dual role of nurturing and mentoring Shivaji. She instilled in him values of courage, justice, and devotion to the motherland through stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, emphasizing heroic figures like Rama and Bhima who fought for righteousness. These tales ignited in Shivaji a passion for Swaraj (self-rule) and resistance against oppression.
A Warrior and Administrator
Beyond her role as a mother, Jijabai was a formidable warrior and administrator. A skilled horse rider and swordswoman, she embodied strength and resilience. When Shahaji settled in Karnataka and remarried, Jijabai moved to Pune, then a desolate region overrun with jungles. As queen regent, she revitalized the area, transforming it into a thriving administrative center. She founded the Kasbapeth Ganpati Temple and renovated the Tambdi Jogeshwari and Kevareshwar Temples, reflecting her deep spiritual faith in Goddess Bhavani and Lord Mahadev, whom she believed guided her family.
During critical moments, such as when Shivaji was trapped at Panhala Fort for four months or when he traveled to Agra in 1666, Jijabai took charge of the Maratha administration, leading with decisiveness and strategic acumen. Her ability to manage state affairs and rally the Maratha forces during crises underscored her role as a pillar of the empire. Jijabai’s leadership was not confined to the battlefield; she prioritized the welfare of her subjects, earning their love and respect.
A Visionary for Swaraj
Jijabai’s vision for Swaraj was rooted in her belief in self-governance and resistance against foreign oppression. She despised the subjugation of Hindus under Mughal and Adil Shahi rule and worked tirelessly to unite the Marathas against these forces. Her strategic counsel was invaluable to both Shahaji and Shivaji, who sought her advice on major political and military decisions. Jijabai’s resolute spirit inspired Shivaji to seize weaker Bijapur posts and confront formidable enemies like Afzal Khan, avenging the death of her eldest son. Her unwavering support emboldened Shivaji to escape Mughal captivity in Agra in 1666, a turning point in Indian history.
Jijabai’s commitment to Swaraj extended beyond her lifetime. She endured personal tragedies, including the loss of her eldest son and her husband, yet remained steadfast in her mission. Her life exemplified sacrifice, as she prioritized the nation’s welfare over personal comfort, earning her the titles of Rastramata (Mother of the Nation) and Rajmata (Queen Mother).
Final Days and Legacy
Tragically, Jijabai passed away on June 17, 1674, in Pachad village near Raigad Fort, just 12 days after witnessing her son’s historic coronation as Chhatrapati at Raigad. Her death was a profound loss for the Maratha Empire, as she had been its moral and strategic backbone. However, her legacy lived on through Shivaji’s achievements and the enduring Maratha resistance against foreign rule.