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For the next two years the military operation was null. Shivaji, worn out with the immense exertions of his life, contented himself with some plundering raids, and with measures designed to secure his conquests. Shivaji’s last expedition was undertaken in 1676. At the end of the year, he set out with the largest Maratha force, which had ever taken to field. He was severely ill in 1676. Sensing his end, he nearly devoted himself to religious observances. He became the devotee of Swami Ramdas and spent rest of the life in contemplation.
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Meanwhile, Aurangzeb was still on throne and as per his policy, he did not want any peace over Deccan. When Shivaji returned to Deccan, he sent Diler Khan, the famous Pathan soldier to co-operate with Bijapur. Diler Khan had some conflicts with the allies and had demanded the Padshah Bibi, the Sultan’s sister as a hostage. A famous story is told of how the princess rode into the enemy’s camp, and gave herself up to save the doomed city from further slaughter. Shivaji, who had no wish to see his ancient foe fall as a victim to the Mughal, sent forces to plunder and eventually compelled Diler Khan to retreat.
At Raigad, Shivaji was suddenly attacked by a knee disease and fever. Worn out by constant exertion the great warrior succumbed to what first had appeared to be a trifling illness and he passed away on April 5, 1680 at the age of 53. |
The courageous warrior, who lived for Dharma and country, laid his life for the cause of liberation of motherland. It is nearly three centuries since he died but the memory of this great man is still a source of inspiration to many.
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