Indian Navy is one of the strongest Naval fleet in the world. But did know why Shivaji Maharaj is considered as Father of Indian Navy. The reason why the great Maratha Emperor is given this title is because of his contribution to the formation of the Naval Wing of the armed forces during the medieval period in India. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj not only realized the need for the naval wing but also constructed a number of naval bases along the coast. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj created a number of fleets that ran under the leadership of notable Maratha leaders which kept the Dutch and English away from the coast for a significant period until 1729.

Shivaji Maharaj demonstrated great skill in creating his military organisation. He built a strong naval presence across the coast of Konkan and Goa to protect sea trade. The navy under Shivaji was so strong that the Marathas coule hold their against the British, Portuguese and Dutch.

Shivaji Maharaj realised the importance of having a secure coastline and protecting the western Konkan coastline from the attacks of Siddi’s fleet. His strategy was to build a strong navy to protect and bolster his kingdom.Shivaji built ships in towns such as Kalyan, Bhivandi, and Goa for building fighting navy as well as trade. He also built a number of sea forts and bases for repair, storage and shelter. Shivaji fought many lengthy battles with Siddis of Janjira on coastline. The fleet grew to reportedly 160 to 700 merchant, support and fighting vessels. He started trading with foreigners on his own after possession of eight or nine ports in the Deccan.

Kanhoji Angre became Maharaj’s support it is know that Kanhoji Angre with the help of a Portuguese craftsman who built ship learned the technique of building ship and laid the foundation for the mightiest navy of medieval india even an Indian Naval Ship being named after him.

India still fights its battles largely depending on the navy and thus practices the lessons we have learned from the great Maratha ruler. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, thus, still lives and will continue to live in the soul of India because he was not only a ruler but was also an idea. And ideas never die.