New History of the Marathas v1.c8.33

v1.c8.33

2. His guardian Dadaji.—Another powerful factor in Shivaji's training was his guardian Dādāji Kondadev. The training he imparted in the practical business of government and the meticulous care he bestowed upon Shivaji's general well-being, are in a great measure responsible for what Shivaji afterwards grew to be. Dādāji was not a mere clerk or accountant but a noble character, a man of business, a keen observer of events and situations, a circumspect politician imbued with the prevalent spirit of love for his country, hatred towards foreign domination and religious persecution. He was much older than Shahji and had served the Bhosle family through thick and thin as their trusted friend and adviser. Dādāji rendered conspicuous service in relieving the distress of the ryots during the terrible famine of 1631-32 and resettling