Chhatrapati Shivaji was the 17th century Hindu King who inspired and organized the native people for the fight against the Moguls and five Sultanats (Shahas) –foreign invaders who had conquered Bharat to loot its wealth and intellect and to destroy its ancient culture and civilization. After 36 years of fighting, Shivaji established the ideal kingdom with rule of law, a Hindu kingdom, rather than a kingdom under his own name. His coronation as a king took place in 1674 A.D. on the Jyeshtha Shukla Trayodashi (13th day of the bright half of Jyeshtha Maasa) day at Raigarh in Maharashtra. His kingdom was known as “Hindavi Swaraja” (Sovereign Hindu State). Shivaji set an example for all Hindus that they belong to the same faith and should be a united force. His coronation day is therefore celebrated as Hindu Sangathan Diwas (Hindu Unity Day). In 2008 this day falls on June 15th.
Shivaji’s Guru, Samarth Ramdas, stood behind him in his quest as his philosophical guiding hand. The philosophy of Samarth Ramdas is based on pragmatism, and consists of guiding principles for living life with fulfillment, yet being responsible to family and society. Shivaji lived by these values. He achieved a great deal but also gave it back to the society., so Samarth Ramdas rightfully acknowledged him as “Shrimant Yogi,” or a person achieving desires with detachment.
Samarth Ramdas was an uncommon saint, who in addition to worship of Ram (Ideal) and Maruti (Strength), spoke unequivocally of the importance of the strength of the individual, society and self-governance by defeating the foreign enemy. He eloquently wrote about the nature of humankind. He wrote 205 verses about the human mind; chanting these is a very soothing experience, making the mind pure and stable, and makes us think of each action in its logical context. In all his teachings and writings, Samarth Ramdas kept advising the practical importance of religious values. He observed that any mass movement brings strength to society, but emphasized a good philosophical foundation and faith in God for its true success. He asked people to always chant the 13 Devnagiri-letter mantra “Shree Ram Jaya Ram Jaya Jaya Ram”, and advised following “do’s and don’ts” which could be practiced at any time and place by an individual and by the society to achieve successes and higher meanings of life:
1. Keep your mind clear of evil thoughts. Purity of mind is a must.
2. Samyak among Mana, Vani, and Karma (i.e., thoughts, speech, and actions should be synchronized with each other)
3. There is God in efforts. Keep trying. Don’t idle or depend upon others to do the job. Just like thirst cannot be quenched without drinking water, you cannot achieve Moksha without efforts.
4. Perform your duties toward the samaj (community) with honesty. Be socially responsible.
5. Run your household in a well-organized manner.
6. Be sensitive to the welfare of people in your surroundings.
7. Be vigilant of evil people and be harsh with them.
8. Be vigilant about your own behavior.
9. Stay away from ego (ahamkar).
10. Become a role model for people following you.
11. Be proud and feel good about yourself and your heritage.
12. Make sure there is a purpose behind your actions.
13. Develop a strong mind and strong body. Be very careful about your sharirik (physical) health.
14. Ask God for happiness for the world and peace of mind & nirmal mati (intellect) for yourself.
15. Don’t get caught up in Maya for your personal gratification. Rather, use your resources for helping others – your family and samaj.
Practicing these teachings helped Shivaji establish the “Hindu Kingdom” and change the psyche of the society. They will continue to help today in bringing forth a meaningful vision and far-reaching societal development.