History of Aurangzib, Based on Original Sources v5.c73.s1.1

v5.c73.s1.1

When the great Shivaji's successor Shambhuji was killed by Aurangzib (March 1689) and his family was closely besieged in Raigarh, it seemed very likely that the newly created Maratha kingdom and independent nationality would be destroyed very soon. The prospect became still more gloomy at the end of the year, when Shambhuji's sons were captured and his successor Rajaram driven into hopeless flight by the Mughals. In this terrible national crisis the genius of the Maratha people saved them and secured their liberty. It is, therefore, necessary to study the leaders of this almost kingless State during the period.