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First six years of Shivaji’s life were spent in highly unsettled conditions. But Jijabai looked into it that his education should not suffer. She would tell stories from Indian scriptures and epics, of Rama and Krishna, of Bhim and Abhimanyu. She would also recite the devotional songs of Gyandeo, Namdeo and Eknath, the saints of Maharashtra. Shivaji used to play with the children of poor families and there lies the roots for his alliance with the tribal of Maval. Sometimes he visited them in their huts and shared their simple meal. Shivaji joined the Mavlis in all their games and became one with them.
Shahji moved his family to Bangalore for some time. He arranged for his proper education there. Shivaji learnt and mastered the art of riding, wrestling and swordsmanship as well at Bangalore.
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Shahji was deputed to the province of Karnataka and the family had to separate once again. Shahji entrusted the responsibility of Shivaji to Dadaji Kondadev, an experienced and faithful Brahmin secretary. Shivaji was again under the total influence of his mother. They moved to Pune, an ancient center of Brahmin learning.
At Pune, Dadaji took care of his education. Shivaji became an expert horseman. He even strengthened his skills of spear throwing, archery and wrestling. He also learnt the art of administration and more importantly, learnt how to win the hearts of the people and render justice to them. Another area where Dadaji served Indian history indirectly was that he introduced Shivaji to Mavlis, the tribals of the area. The mountain valleys of the Pune district are generally called Maval. The race in the Maval hills is known as Mavli. Up to the time of Shivaji they had been generally neglected and despised. These people were loyal, hard working and quick-footed. They also reflected Shivaji’s view of throwing over the reign of Mughal sultan. |
Shivaji also acquired practical knowledge of governing the province as he would accompany Dadaji and see him settle disputes and award punishments. When, at a very young age, Shivaji was seated on the throne, he remembered the lessons of fearless justice. Once, he had to give verdict on the case of the village Patel, the village head. He had dishonored a helpless widow when actually it was his duty to protect such people of the village. It was clear that the Patel had done wrong and should be punished for his deed. The young ruler announced the judgement : both the hands and the feet of the Patel were to be cut off. His verdict left everyone agape. Patel, for the unexpected decision against him from a young lad; and people in general for his firm devotion to justice. Shivaji instantly created an image of a justice-loving ruler. People found him kind and loving towards the poor, the downfallen and the wretched.
Jijabai remained a source of inspiration throughout his growing years. On his return from the tribal land, he would talk about the sufferings of his subjects under the Mughal rule to his mother. Jijabai would say, “Shivba, …Rama killed Ravan and made his people happy. Krishna did same with cruel Kans. You too can destroy the wicked and make your subjects happy.” Her words would always reinforce his desire to do something for Mavlis. The young man would think he should become courageous and brave like those heroes.
At Pune, he learnt about the fundamentals of his cultural heritage and turned into a staunch religious Hindu. A mission was shaping up within the mind of the young man.
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