Bhubaneswar, Feb. 21 -- On February 19, 2026, India marked the 365th birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire and a towering symbol of swarajya. Born in 1630 at Shivneri Fort, Shivaji Maharaj established a formidable kingdom through strategic guerrilla warfare (ganimi kava), administrative reforms, and naval strength along the Konkan coast.

Crowned at Raigad in 1674, he championed justice, protected women, respected all faiths, and laid the foundation of a resilient, people-centric state that continues to inspire generations.

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Amid the Jayanti celebrations filled ...