Weapons of Shivaji Maharaj

Shivaji Maharaj expanded his empire up to Deccan and central India with his administration and military skills. He dominated the entire range of Sahyadris with valor and martial skills of his infantry and cavalry. He was also the inventor of the guerrilla style of fighting in which his soldiers used to ambush enemies without giving them any chance to retaliate, and disappear into the thick bushes taking advantage of darkness.

The weapons that he and his army used in guerrilla and pitched battle contributed a lot for the expansion of his empire. Here are the weapons of Shivaji Maharaj that are glorified in history.

Talwar

An Indian sword that was a quintessential weapon during the medieval war. It has a curved blade with its one projecting edge covered in a wooden or metal hilt and protected with a pommel. The hilt also consists of a knuckle guard. The talwar has a thick pointed tip that can pierce into the chest of enemies.

Firangi

This is a colloquial used to refer foreigners with white skin. It is a sword based on European design and hence is called 'firangi.' It has a straight blade that is sharp on one entire side and six inches from the top on the other side. This European sword also inspired Shivaji to make its variants in 'Bhavani' and 'Jagdamba' talwars.

Shamshir

While the origin of this sword is unknown, it has a Persian name 'Shamsir' because Seljuk Khanate, Islamic Seljuk Empire, brought it to Persia in the 12th century. Since Persian sword are usually straight, and Arabian sword curved, Shamshir sword had both the features, but with a curved hilt. Though the Persian used it for hunting, the Marathas did for fighting enemies.

Khanda

This sword has a sharp edge on both the sides. Its width is less at the handle, but grows large in length. Being broader at the middle and upper part, this sword was used to cut enemies into two pieces. It doesn't has a pointed tip.

Khanjar

It is a dagger mostly used in close combat. It is short in length, curved, double-edged, and with a pointed tip. Covered in a sheath, khanjar has its origin in Oman. But it has donned an Arabic name.

Kataar

This is another close combat weapon ideally used for piercing. It has a short blade with a 'H' shaped handle. Like the khanjar, it too is covered in a sheath. Being short, it is easy to mount near the waist and pull it out instantly when required.

Gupti

This is a short, pointed, but effective sword that is still used by gangsters. With its pointed tip, it can be easily pierced into the enemy's stomach. It is covered in a scabbard made of wood because of which it is difficult to guess whether a person is carrying a weapon or a stick.

Dhanushya-Baan (Bow and arrow)

This is a traditional weapon used to attack enemies from a long distance. The bow is of wooden which is heated-treated to make it flexible and give a curve shape.  A string is attached tight to both its end that is instrumental in propelling the arrow.

Bichwa

It is an Indian dagger with one end curved and the other pointed out. It has a small looped hilt for easy gripping and piercing.

Kurhaad

It is a Marathi word for an axe and is generally a tool made of metal with a sharp and thick edge in a lunar shape mounted on a wooden shaft. Kurhaad is most effective in breaking the skull of enemies.

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Sword of Shivaji Maharaj

Shivaji was one of the most powerful and prominent rulers of the Maratha land, and much of his valor is equally shared amongst his swords. According to reports, Shivaji owned three main swords; namely, ‘Bhawani’, ‘Jagdamba’ and ‘Tulja’. Historical evidences show that ‘Bhawani’ was originated from Toledo, Spain, and there had been innumerable discussions and debates related to this theory of origination. However, Babasaheb Purandare, the renowned historians of those times confirmed that Spain had the top most quality of steel and it was more than likely that all Maratha swords were imported from there.

Nick Evangelista, one of the famous authors and magazine publishers, describe ‘Bhawani’ as a Genoa Blade of four feet length. He also suggests that the sword had a very small grip, with spikes attached to the hilt that could thrust the opponents at one go. However, different paintings of Chattrapati Shivaji depict Bhawani as a patta held in his right hand and integrated within a gauntlet. Now, if these paintings are taken to be true, the presence of spikes as described by Nick needs to be falsified. It has to be noted that although swords were imported from Spain, they were crafted locally and till date stand unique and distinct. Bhawani is now believed to be in custody of Udayraje Bhosle of Satara, the direct descendent of Shivaji.

The second sword in line is the famous ‘Jagdamba’ that is assumed to be gifted to Edward VII, the Prince of Wales, during his visit to India.  Jagdamba is now in the Royal Collection Trust, London. As for ‘Tulja’ there are no traces of evidence or any description available to unveil the present custody of this sword.

Antique collectors in India and around the globe, are trying their best to find out some missing links related to these swords. The Toledo angle of Bhawani talwar, although accepted by most still remains debatable for few. Many are of the opinion that the Indian Government should ask for a detailed account of steel manufacturers of those times from the Spanish authorities that could aid in the markings of Bhawani.

Nevertheless, Maratha rule in India and the contribution towards Swaraj remains unmatched, unbeatable and beyond debates. Maratha swords similar to the rulers were powerful, distinct and unique. It is unfortunate that today we do not have much information and knowledge of these swords and with time they have faded away leaving little or no trace at all. Therefore, taking up necessary steps and effort to find out more about these swords would be a worthwhile investment. This was all about swords of Shivaji and anybody interested to share any information related to these is more than welcome.