Maratha Navy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Foundation of India’s Indigenous Naval Power
Naval Forts, Warships & Coastal Defense Strategy
Establishment of the Maratha Navy
The rise of a powerful indigenous naval force under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was the first Indian ruler to recognize the strategic importance of naval power for safeguarding the western coastline. With increasing threats from the Portuguese, Siddis, British, and other foreign powers, the need for a strong and independent navy became essential.
From 1656–57 onwards, Shivaji Maharaj initiated the systematic development of the Maratha Navy. The objective was not only to protect coastal territories but also to secure trade routes and establish Swarajya’s dominance over the Arabian Sea.
Naval Forts & Coastal Defense
Shivaji Maharaj constructed several strategically important sea forts including Sindhudurg, Vijaydurg, Suvarnadurg, Khanderi, and Underi. These forts played a crucial role in monitoring enemy movements and protecting coastal trade.
Shipyards at Sindhudurg, Ratnagiri, and other coastal regions ensured efficient shipbuilding, repairs, and long-term naval readiness.
Warships & Naval Fleet
The Maratha Navy relied on smaller, faster vessels suitable for shallow waters and rapid coastal combat. Large European-style ships were avoided due to their limited maneuverability.
Key vessels included Gurabs, Galbats, Shivads, Tarandes, Pals, Machwas, and Jug. Gurabs were the largest warships, weighing up to 300 tons and equipped with long-range cannons.
Naval Administration
The naval administration was merit-based and inclusive. Officers from all communities were appointed based on ability and loyalty.
Important naval titles included Darya Sarang, Maynak, Subedar, and Sarsubedar. Commanders such as Maynak Bhandari, Daulat Khan, and Kanhoji Angre strengthened the navy immensely.
Major Naval Campaigns
The sea campaign against Basrur (1665) and the battle of Khanderi (1679) were decisive moments that established Maratha naval supremacy over European powers.
The fortification of Khanderi Island near British-controlled Mumbai showcased Shivaji Maharaj’s exceptional naval strategy, courage, and foresight.
In conclusion, the Maratha Navy laid the foundation of India’s indigenous naval tradition and remains one of the greatest military achievements of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
📜 View Detailed Historical & Technical Notes
During Shivaji Maharaj’s reign, the Maratha Navy included approximately 640 small and medium vessels and nearly 30 large Gurab warships. Smaller ships ensured speed and flexibility in shallow waters.
Gurabs weighed between 200–300 tons and carried long-range cannons. Galbats, though similar in structure, were lighter (70–80 tons) and faster.
Other ship types included Shivad, Tarande, Pal, Machwa, Jug, Virkati, Dabari, and Mahagiri, each designed for specific naval operations.
Shipyards at Sindhudurg, Ratnagiri, and coastal Konkan enabled continuous shipbuilding and maintenance. European shipbuilding technology was selectively studied but adapted to Indian coastal needs.
Two landmark naval events were the Basrur Sea Campaign (1665) and the Battle of Khanderi (1679). The capture and fortification of Khanderi Island, located just eleven miles from Mumbai, directly challenged British naval dominance.
The Maratha Navy consisted of officers from all communities, reflecting Shivaji Maharaj’s inclusive governance and administrative foresight.
Information about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Detailed insights into the life, administration, warfare, and legacy of the great Maratha ruler
Battles of Shivaji Maharaj
Detailed accounts of the major battles fought by Shivaji Maharaj, including strategies and outcomes.
Read MoreBooks & Literature
Historical books, novels, and literary works written on the life and achievements of Shivaji Maharaj.
Read MoreEconomic Policy
Economic reforms, trade systems, taxation methods, and financial administration of the Maratha Empire.
Read MorePhotographs & Paintings
Historic photographs, portraits, paintings, and artistic depictions of Shivaji Maharaj.
Read MoreMaratha Navy
The powerful naval force established by Shivaji Maharaj to protect the western coastline.
Read MoreIntelligence & Spy Network
The efficient intelligence system that played a vital role in military and administrative success.
Read MoreMaratha Army
Military organization, discipline, and the legendary structure of the Maratha army.
Read MoreJustice System
Judicial system, legal reforms, and policies implemented during Shivaji Maharaj’s rule.
Read MoreIndustries & Workshops
Industrial activities, production centers, and trade establishments during the Maratha period.
Read MorePalaces & Residences
Royal palaces, architectural marvels, and residential complexes of the Maratha Empire.
Read MoreLesser-known Facts
Rare, lesser-known, and interesting facts about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Read MoreSongs & Poetry
Songs, poems, and musical tributes dedicated to the bravery and legacy of Shivaji Maharaj.
Read MoreShivbawani – by Kavi Bhushan
Classical poetry by Kavi Bhushan glorifying the valor and achievements of Shivaji Maharaj.
Read MoreEternal Legacy
Timeless inspiration — ideals of Shivaji Maharaj that continue to live on
Concept of Swarajya
The revolutionary idea of Swarajya (self-rule) introduced by Shivaji Maharaj later became the foundation of India’s freedom movement.
Religious Tolerance
Principles of religious harmony and secular governance that ensured unity and respect among diverse communities within the empire.
Welfare of the People
Governance centered on public welfare — a ruler’s foremost duty — a philosophy that continues to inspire modern democratic values.