Notes For All Chapters – History Class 7
1. Introduction to Shivaji Maharaj as an Ideal Ruler
- Before Shivaji Maharaj established Swaraj, Maharashtra was under the control of the Adilshahi, Mughal, Portuguese, and Siddi rulers.
- He fought against them and created an independent kingdom (Swaraj) that aimed at the welfare of all.
- His governance turned Swaraj into Surajya, meaning a kingdom based on justice and people’s welfare.
2. Challenges Faced by Shivaji Maharaj
1. He had to fight many powerful enemies while establishing Swaraj.
2. Some major events in his life included:
- Meeting with Afzal Khan (a dangerous encounter).
- The siege of Panhala (where he was surrounded by the enemy).
- The attack on Shaista Khan (a Mughal general).
- Escape from Agra (he was imprisoned by Aurangzeb but managed to escape).
3. He successfully overcame all these dangers with bravery and intelligence.
3. His Leadership and Organizational Skills
Shivaji Maharaj had a team of brave and loyal followers who were ready to sacrifice their lives for Swaraj.
Examples of such loyal followers include:
- Jiva Mahala, who saved Shivaji during his meeting with Afzal Khan.
- Shiva Kashid, who disguised himself as Shivaji to mislead the enemy.
- Bajiprabhu Deshpande, who defended Shivaji’s escape route.
- Tanaji Malusare, who gave his life while conquering Sinhagad fort.
4. His Care for People (Ryot) and Army Discipline
Protection of Farmers:
- During enemy invasions, he took steps to protect farmers.
- He warned his officers to move villagers to safe places during battles.
- He ensured that his soldiers never harmed civilians.
Army Discipline:
- Soldiers were paid in cash instead of land (Jagirs).
- Looting was strictly prohibited, and all valuables had to be handed over to the government.
- Families of dead soldiers were cared for by the administration.
5. His Religious Tolerance and Ethical Policies
1. Though he fought against Islamic rulers, he never harmed Muslim citizens.
2. Muslim officers were appointed in his army, such as Siddi Hilal and Daulatkhan.
3. He ordered that:
- Mosques should never be destroyed.
- The Holy Quran should be respected.
4. He allowed people to return to their original religion if they had been forcefully converted.
5. He also built sea forts to protect against foreign invasions.
6. His Thoughtful Governance
He focused on sustainable development.
- He encouraged tree planting and controlled deforestation.
- He ordered that fort waste should be used for farming instead of dumping.
He was not just a warrior but a visionary leader who built a strong, ethical, and just society.
7. His Inspiration for Future Generations
Many leaders were inspired by him:
- Mahatma Phule, Lokmanya Tilak, and Rabindranath Tagore praised his leadership.
- His ideas of freedom and good governance influenced the Indian independence movement.
Even today, he is remembered as a great national hero.
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