Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was a 17th-century Indian warrior king who founded the Maratha Empire. He is considered to be one of the greatest warriors in Indian history.

Shivaji was born in 1630 in the hill fort of Shivneri, near the city of Junnar. His father, Shahaji Bhosale, was a Maratha general who served the Deccan Sultanates. His mother, Jijabai, was the daughter of Lakhuji Jadhavrao of Sindhkhed, a Mughal-aligned sardar claiming descent from a Yadav royal family of Devagiri.

Shivaji was educated in both Hindu and Islamic traditions. He was a skilled warrior and a brilliant strategist. He was also a devout Hindu and a strong advocate for social justice.

In 1646, at the age of 16, Shivaji led his first military campaign against the Adilshahi Sultanate of Bijapur. He captured the fort of Torna and began to build a kingdom in the Western Ghats.

Over the next 20 years, Shivaji fought a series of wars against the Mughals, the Adilshahis, and the Portuguese. He built a strong navy and a well-trained army. He also established a system of administration and taxation.

In 1674, Shivaji was crowned Chhatrapati, or "emperor," of the Maratha Empire. He ruled for six more years, until his death in 1680.

Shivaji Maharaj is considered to be one of the greatest warriors in Indian history. He was a brilliant strategist and a skilled warrior. He was also a devout Hindu and a strong advocate for social justice.

Shivaji Maharaj's legacy is still alive today. He is considered to be a national hero in India. His birthday is celebrated as a public holiday in Maharashtra. There are many statues and memorials to him throughout India.

Shivaji Maharaj's life and teachings have inspired many people, including Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela. He is a symbol of courage, determination, and hope for people all over the world.