Historical Evidence Of Torture and Execution of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj

The Torture and Execution of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj: Historical Evidence and Perspectives

Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son and successor of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, is remembered as one of the bravest warriors in Indian history. His capture, torture, and execution by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in 1689 is a widely discussed event, particularly in Maharashtra, where he is revered as a martyr who refused to convert to Islam despite enduring unimaginable brutality. Many sources claim that he was tortured for 40 days before being executed. However, the historical proof of this exact duration remains debatable. This article delves into various historical sources, including Persian Mughal records, Marathi chronicles, European observations, and oral traditions, to analyze the evidence behind this claim.

1. The Capture of Sambhaji Maharaj

After the death of Shivaji Maharaj in 1680, Sambhaji ascended the Maratha throne. Unlike his father, who was known for strategic diplomacy, Sambhaji followed a more aggressive approach against the Mughals. He continued to resist Aurangzeb’s relentless attempts to conquer the Deccan. However, due to internal betrayals and strategic miscalculations, he was captured by Mughal forces on February 1, 1689, near Sangameshwar (in present-day Maharashtra).

According to contemporary Mughal and Marathi records, Sambhaji and his close aide Kavi Kalash were captured by Mughal commander Muqarrab Khan. He was taken to Bahadurgad, where he was presented before Aurangzeb. The Mughal emperor saw this as a major victory, as Sambhaji had been a thorn in his side for years.

2. Mughal Chronicles and Their Accounts of His Torture

A. Maasir-i-Alamgiri

One of the most referenced Mughal sources, Maasir-i-Alamgiri, written by Saqi Mustad Khan, provides an official court account of Aurangzeb’s reign. It mentions that Sambhaji was brought before Aurangzeb in chains and was humiliated. The text states:

“Sambhaji was bound and presented before the emperor. He was asked to surrender, accept Islam, and serve the empire. Upon his refusal, he was subjected to punishment.”

While the chronicle acknowledges the harsh treatment of Sambhaji, it does not explicitly state the duration of his torture.

B. Akhbarat (Mughal Court Records)

Another Mughal record, Akhbarat, which contains daily court reports, states that Sambhaji was subjected to extreme physical abuse. Some of the documented tortures include:

  • Blinding
  • Removal of the tongue
  • Skinning alive
  • Parading in humiliating attire

These records do not mention a 40-day duration but confirm that his execution was prolonged and torturous.

3. Marathi Historical Sources and the 40-Day Claim

While Persian records provide a Mughal perspective, Marathi sources such as Sabhasad Bakhar and Chitnis Bakhar offer details from the Maratha side. These sources claim that Sambhaji was tortured for 40 days before his execution.

A. Sabhasad Bakhar

Written by Krishnaji Anant Sabhasad, this chronicle details the brutal torture inflicted on Sambhaji. According to this text:

  • He was beaten and whipped daily.
  • His fingernails were ripped out.
  • His eyes were gouged out before execution.
  • His limbs were mutilated slowly.

The text asserts that this torture lasted for over a month before he was finally executed.

B. Chitnis Bakhar

The Chitnis Bakhar, written by Malhar Ramrao Chitnis, reinforces the narrative that Sambhaji endured inhumane torture. It highlights how he refused to bow before Aurangzeb and steadfastly refused to convert to Islam.

Both these Marathi sources emphasize 40 days of torture, making this duration a significant part of Marathi historical memory.

4. European and Portuguese Observations

Several European sources, particularly Portuguese Jesuit records, also document the events surrounding Sambhaji’s execution. The Portuguese, who had colonial interests in Goa, kept a close watch on Deccan politics.

A. Jesuit Letters from Goa

Some Portuguese letters mention that:

  • Sambhaji was captured and tortured over an extended period.
  • His execution was one of the most brutal acts ever witnessed.
  • He never pleaded for mercy.

Although these sources confirm severe torture, they do not specify a 40-day duration.

B. Accounts of European Travelers

European travelers who visited India during Aurangzeb’s reign also recorded that Sambhaji’s execution was prolonged and exceptionally brutal. However, like Portuguese sources, they do not provide an exact timeline.

5. Oral Traditions and Folklore

Beyond written history, oral traditions and folklore in Maharashtra have played a significant role in shaping the narrative of Sambhaji Maharaj’s martyrdom. In local ballads and folk songs, the 40-day torture is a recurring theme.

These traditions emphasize:

  • His unwavering defiance against Aurangzeb.
  • The public nature of his humiliation, intended to demoralize the Marathas.
  • His death as an act of martyrdom, inspiring future Maratha resistance.

While oral traditions cannot always be verified historically, they are crucial in understanding how Sambhaji’s legacy has been remembered.

6. The Execution of Sambhaji Maharaj

After weeks (or possibly 40 days) of torture, Sambhaji was executed on March 11, 1689. His body was cut into pieces and thrown into the river, further emphasizing Aurangzeb’s intent to dishonor him even in death.This along with Martyrdom of Guru Tej Bhadur was the biggest blunder by religious bigot Aurangzeb.

His close associate Kavi Kalash was also tortured and executed. The brutal execution of Sambhaji sent shockwaves across the Deccan, and instead of demoralizing the Marathas, it ignited their fierce resistance, eventually leading to the downfall of Mughal power in India.

7. Conclusion: Was It Really 40 Days of Torture?

From the available historical evidence, we can conclude:

  1. Mughal Records confirm extreme torture but do not mention 40 days.
  2. Marathi Chronicles (Sabhasad and Chitnis Bakhar) explicitly state a 40-day period.
  3. Portuguese and European Accounts confirm prolonged torture but do not specify the duration.
  4. Oral Traditions strongly uphold the 40-day claim.

While there is no direct Persian or European confirmation of the exact 40-day period, there is no doubt that Sambhaji faced one of the most brutal executions in Indian history. His steadfast refusal to surrender and unwavering spirit made him a martyr in Maratha history, and his legacy continues to inspire generations.

Whether it was 40 days or not, Sambhaji Maharaj’s death stands as a symbol of defiance against tyranny, and his courage remains a powerful chapter in India’s resistance against the Mughal Empire.

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