The Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Ministry has recently inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. The signing of this memorandum will mark the return of the legendary “Wagh Nakh” to its native state. The Wagh Nakh, a medieval weapon associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, will be loaned out to the Government of Maharashtra for a period of three years. Meanwhile, it will be displayed across various museums throughout the state.
Introducing the Wagh Nakh
Translating to ‘tiger claws,’ the Wagh Nakh is an iconic medieval dagger that was employed across the Indian subcontinent. The unique weapon boasts four or five curved blades attached to a glove or a bar and was primarily designed for personal defense or stealth attacks. A slash from a Wagh Nakh could easily cut through skin and flesh.
Chhatrapati Shivaji’s Encounter with the Wagh Nakh
In his struggle against Afzal Khan—a Bijapur general tasked with halting Shivaji’s campaigns in the Konkan region—Chhatrapati Shivaji turned to the Wagh Nakh for protection. Despite Khan proposing a peaceful meeting, Shivaji took precautions, concealing a Wagh Nakh and donning chainmail beneath his attire. When Khan attacked Shivaji, the Wagh Nakh proved instrumental in Khan’s demise and subsequently, Shivaji’s triumph.
Significant Milestones in Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s Life
Born on February 19, 1630, at Shivneri Fort in Pune District, Maharashtra, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was the son of Shahaji Bhonsle, a Maratha general, and Jijabai, a deeply religious woman who played a significant role in shaping his life. He led several important battles, including the Battle of Pratapgad, Battle of Pavan Khind, Sacking of Surat, Battle of Purandar, Battle of Sinhagad, Battle of Kalyan, and Battle of Sangamner.
Titles and Administration under Shivaji
Shivaji adopted several titles during his reign, such as Chhatrapati, Shakakarta, Kshatriya Kulavantas, and Haindava Dharmodhhaarak. He also established a comprehensive administration system which included a centralised administration guided by a council of eight ministers (Ashtapradhan). The kingdom was organized into provinces, further divided into districts and villages. Revenue administration was reformed with the replacement of the Jagirdari System with the Ryotwari System.
Military Organization and Revenues
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj maintained an efficient military, compensating regular soldiers in cash while high-ranking officers were rewarded through jagir grants or Saranjams. His military featured infantry, cavalry, and navy units, each with defined roles and hierarchies.
In addition to traditional revenue sources, Chauth and Sardeshmukhi were also significant contributors to Shivaji’s income. Chauth was essentially 1/4th of the standard paid to Marathas as protection money, and Sardeshmukhi was an additional 10% levy imposed on non-Maratha territories.
The Legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
On his demise in 1680, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was cremated at the Raigad Fort. Today, his life and achievements are commemorated annually on February 19, known as Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti. His valour, strategic military tactics, and exceptional administrative abilities continue to inspire and are celebrated in Maharashtra and beyond.