History & Culture
Bhonsala Inscriptions & the Shivaji–Afzal Khan Episode
Thanjavur Big Temple Inscriptions
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- The Brihadeeswarar Temple contains extensive inscriptions, including the largest from the Maratha period.
- Found on the south-western walls near the Vinayagar shrine.
- Written in Marathi during the reign of Serfoji II.
- Provides a detailed account of the history and genealogy of the Maratha kings of Thanjavur.
- Includes praise for the Danish missionary Christian Frederick Schwarz.
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- Records that Serfoji II sent military support and financial aid to the British.
- Mentions his assistance during the conflict against the Marudu Brothers Rebellion.
- Highlights the political alliances and historical context of the Maratha rule in Thanjavur.
Bhonsala Vamsa Charitra
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- Published by Sarasvati Mahal Library.
- Chronicles Maratha history in Marathi and Tamil, with an English summary.
- Vividly narrates the famous encounter between Chhatrapati Shivaji and Afzal Khan.
Shivaji vs Afzal Khan – Strategy & Encounter
- Shivaji, guided by his deity Tulja Bhavani, planned the meeting at Jawali Fort.
- Secret instructions were sent to surround Afzal Khan’s army if needed.
- During the meeting, Afzal Khan attempted to stab Shivaji.
- Shivaji, protected by armor, retaliated using tiger-claws (wagh nakh) and killed him.
Aftermath of the Duel
- Afzal Khan’s minister Krishnaji Pant continued the fight.
- Shivaji offered him mercy, respecting his Brahmin status, but he persisted and was killed by a bodyguard.
- Maratha forces attacked after the nagara (war drum) signal and defeated Afzal Khan’s troops.
- Captured soldiers were treated with honour and released.
Religious & Cultural Beliefs
- Shivaji’s victory was attributed to divine blessings of Tulja Bhavani.
- The narrative blends history, faith, and royal legitimacy.
Historical Significance
- The episode is one of the most dramatic in Indian history.
- Highlights Shivaji’s strategic brilliance, courage, and ethics in warfare.
- The inscriptions preserve a unique Maratha perspective within a Chola monument.
