Why Marathi Brahmins Didn’t Grant Kshatriyahood to Shivaji and Selected Gaga Bhatt for His Coronation

Introduction

Throughout history, the question of whether Marathi Brahmins granted Kshatriyahood to Chatrapati Shivaji or not has been a subject of much debate. Some critics have accused the Marathi Brahmins of calling Shivaji a shudra, an accusation that is not only false but insulting to the wisdom and integrity of those Brahmins. This article aims to clarify the historical context and the reasons behind the selection of Gaga Bhatt for Shivaji's coronation, debunking the false notions and providing clarity.

Historical Context and Accusations

Marathi Brahmins never called Chatrapati Shivaji a shudra because he was clearly of Kshatriya lineage. Instead, he was revered and respected for his wisdom, bravery, and devotion to Kshatriya dharma. Shivaji is referred to as “Brahma pratipalak,” meaning the protector of knowledge and the guardian of Brahmins. It is crucial to dispel the baseless and false accusations that seek to undermine this historical figure.

Accusations brought forth by dubious individuals, often with ulterior motives, serve to divide people, particularly Hindus. Politicians and propagandists use such theories to sow discord, but it is important to resist these divisive narratives and focus on the truth and the contributions of figures like Shivaji.

Understanding the Concept of Kshatriyahood

The concept of Kshatriyahood is not a certificate that can be granted; it is a birthright and a title that is respected and earned through actions and deeds. Just as a white man cannot ask a Brahmin to grant him Indian status, so too, no one can grant Kshatriyahood to an individual who is not of Kshatriya lineage. The lack of power to grant such a title should not be misconstrued as a denial of honor or respect.

The Role of Brahmins in Shivaji's Empire

Marathi Brahmins played a significant role in the formation and governance of Shivaji's empire. For instance, the Ashta Pradhan Mandal, a cabinet of eight ministers, had a majority of Brahmins. Politically and spiritually, Brahmins like Shivaji's political and spiritual gurus were instrumental in shaping the empire. Numerous Brahmins are known to have risked their lives to save Shivaji and his empire. This underscores the deeply rooted respect and support that Brahmins had for Shivaji, rather than any form of opposition.

The selection of Gaga Bhatt for Shivaji's coronation was a strategic and symbolic decision. The Brahmins in Maharashtra lacked expertise in the rituals of coronation due to centuries of foreign rule. Consequently, an expert from the North, such as Gaga Bhatt from Kashi, was invited to perform the coronation. This choice was influenced not only by the expertise but also by the symbolic importance of Kashi, the spiritual nerve center of the Hindu world.

Symbolic Importance of Gaga Bhatt

Gaga Bhatt was invited from Kashi due to his scholarly reputation, making his participation in the coronation a significant event. This coronation was a declaration of Shivaji's status as the emperor of all Hindus, ready to challenge the Islamic invaders, particularly the Mughals. As suggested by the title of his Descriptive poem, Kavi Bhushan, “Shivaji Raje is the challenger of all Mlecchas who will seek the end of their regime,” Shivaji was explicitly positioning himself as a leader against the incumbent powers.

The choice of Gaga Bhatt also helped in positioning Shivaji as a contender for the Delhi throne, reminiscent of the scholarly and spiritual symbols of the past, such as Samrat Prithviraj Chauhan and Samrat Yudhishthira. These comparisons were part of the broader vision of Shivaji to establish himself as an emperor of the entire subcontinent, not just a regional king.

Legacy and Influence

Shivaji's reverence has been maintained by notable Brahmins and nationalist figures. For instance, Lokmanya Tilak and Swatantryaveer Savarkar celebrated and wrote extensively about Shivaji, defending and upholding his ethos in the freedom struggle. Tilak initiated the celebration of Shiva Jayanti and Savarkar's book, ”Hindu Pad Padshahi,” is a testament to the respect and admiration for Shivaji across generations.

The fact that so many Brahmins continue to honor Shivaji even today further underscores the baseless nature of the accusations against the Marathi Brahmins. These Brahmins did not deny Shivaji the honor of his due, for he was respected and revered by all who knew of his valor and wisdom.

Vande Mataram! Salutations to the Motherland and to our history that includes figures like Chatrapati Shivaji, revered by all who understand his true significance and value.

Keywords: Shivaji, Kshatriyahood, Coronation, Brahmins, Maratha Empire