Weapons of Shivaji Maharaj used in Battles

Shivaji Maharaj was known for his exceptional military tactics and strategic planning. However, his military prowess would not have been possible without the use of advanced weaponry. Chhatrapati Shivaji and his army were equipped with an array of weapons that helped them to overcome even the most formidable opponents. In this essay, we will explore some of the most significant weapons of Shivaji Maharaj and his army.

Talwar

Talwar, also known as the Tulwar or Talavari, was a type of curved sword that was commonly used by the Maratha army under the leadership of Shivaji Maharaj. The Talwar was one of the most versatile and effective weapons in the Maratha arsenal and played a significant role in many battles during the 17th century.

Design of Talwar used to be a slightly curved, single-edged blade that was sharpened on the inner edge. The blade was typically 2 to 3 feet in length and was wider near the hilt and tapered towards the tip. The Talwar was designed for both cutting and thrusting, and its unique curve made it an effective weapon for both offense and defence.

Shivaji Maharaj himself was a skilled Talwar fighter and was known to use the weapon in battle. He trained his soldiers extensively in the use of the Talwar, and it became one of the most important weapons in the Maratha arsenal.

Talwar was effective against both infantry and cavalry, and its curved blade was especially useful in close-quarters combat. In the Maratha Empire, soldiers used to deliver quick and precise strikes with Talwar. They used to slash at their opponents’ limbs and capable of making deep cuts in their bodies with the Talwar. The Talwar was also effective against armoured opponents, as its curved blade allowed it to bypass the gaps in the armor.

It was not only used for combat but was also a symbol of honor and prestige. Shivaji Maharaj often presented Talwars as gifts to his loyal soldiers and commanders, and the weapon became a prized possession of the Maratha warriors.

i. Shamshir

Shamshir, also known as Patta, was a type of curved sword that was commonly used by the Maratha army under the leadership of Shivaji Maharaj. The Shamshir had a curved, single-edged blade that measured around 3 to 4 feet in length. The sword was made from really good steel, and was used for both cutting and thrusting.
The handle of the Shamshir was made of wood or horn, and was decorated with beautiful designs. The grip was covered with leather or silk to make it easier to hold. The Shamshir also had a basket-like guard that protected the hand of the wielder from incoming attacks.

The Shamshir was an effective weapon against both infantry and cavalry, and its curved blade allowed the wielder to deliver powerful and precise strikes. The Maratha soldiers used the Shamshir to deliver quick and precise strikes, using the weapon to slash at their opponents’ limbs or to make deep cuts in their bodies. The Shamshir was also effective against armoured opponents, as its curved blade allowed it to bypass the gaps in the Armour.

ii. Firangi

The Firangi was a type of sword that was commonly used by the Maratha army under the leadership of Shivaji Maharaj. The word “Firangi” comes from the Persian word “Firang” which means “foreign” or “European”. The Firangi was so named because it was a sword of European origin that was adopted and adapted by Indian warriors, including Shivaji Maharaj and his soldiers.

The Firangi was a long sword with a straight, double-edged blade that measured about 3 feet in length. It was designed for both cutting and thrusting, and its long reach made it effective against opponents who were armed with shorter weapons. The blade of the Firangi was usually made of high-quality steel, and some versions of the sword had a fuller or groove along the blade to make it lighter and more balanced.

The Firangi was effective against both infantry and cavalry, and its long blade allowed the wielder to attack from a safe distance. The Maratha soldiers used the Firangi to deliver powerful thrusts, using the weapon to penetrate the armour of their opponents. The Firangi was also effective against unarmoured opponents, as its long blade allowed the wielder to deliver deep and precise cuts.

The Firangi was an essential weapon in the Maratha arsenal, and its effectiveness in both offense and defence made it a formidable weapon on the battlefield. Shivaji Maharaj recognized the importance of the Firangi and trained his soldiers to use the weapon with great skill, making it an important tool in the Maratha army’s success in battle. The adoption and adaptation of the Firangi by Indian warriors is a testament to the ingenuity and adaptability of the Maratha army under the leadership of Shivaji Maharaj.

iii. Khanda

The Khanda was a type of sword that was commonly used by the Maratha army under the leadership of Shivaji Maharaj. The Khanda was a double-edged sword with a straight blade that was typically about 3 feet in length. The blade of the sword was wider near the handle and became narrower towards the tip, which made it really good at cutting through things.

The Khanda was typically made of high-quality steel and was decorated with intricate designs. The hilt of the sword was often adorned with precious stones or jewels, making it a symbol of wealth and status. The handle of the Khanda was wrapped in leather or silk to provide a secure grip, and some versions of the sword had a basket-like guard that protected the hand of the wielder from incoming attacks.

Shivaji Maharaj himself was known to use the Khanda in battle, and he recognized the importance of the weapon in the Maratha arsenal. He trained his soldiers extensively in the use of the Khanda, and it became one of the most important weapons in the Maratha army.

In addition to its effectiveness in combat, the Khanda was also a symbol of honor and prestige. Shivaji Maharaj often presented Khanda swords as gifts to his loyal soldiers and commanders, and the weapon became a prized possession of the Maratha warriors.

Bichwa

Also known as the Bhuj or Vichwa. It was a type of dagger or short sword that was one of weapon used by Shivaji Maharaj and his soldiers in close combat. The Bichwa had a long, curved blade that was sharp on both sides, and a handle made of wood or ivory.

The Bichwa was a versatile weapon that was used for both offensive and defensive purposes. It was often used as a secondary weapon, carried by soldiers along with a larger sword or spear. In battle, the Bichwa was used to make quick thrusts at the opponent, or to parry and deflect incoming attacks. Its curved shape allowed for a greater range of motion, making it effective in close quarters combat.

Bichwa sword was also used for assassinations because of its small size, which made it easy to hide. Shivaji Maharaj was known to carry a Bichwa with him at all times, and it is said that he used it to kill the traitorous Afzal Khan during a meeting in 1659.

Danda Patta

Danda Patta is a type of weapon used by the Maratha soldiers during the reign of Shivaji Maharaj. It is considered to be one of the most effective weapons of Shivaji Maharaj. It consists of a wooden staff or pole (danda) with a curved blade (patta) attached to the end. The length of the blade on the Danda Patta was commonly between 2 to 3 feet, and its width gradually increased from the hilt before tapering down towards the tip.

The Danda Patta was a versatile weapon that could be used for both close-quarters combat and as a throwing weapon. The blade could be used to deliver powerful strikes, while the staff provided a defensive shield against incoming attacks. The curved blade also made it an effective weapon against armoured opponents, as it could be used to bypass the gaps in the Armor.

The Danda Patta was particularly effective against cavalry. The long staff provided a good reach, allowing the wielder to strike at the legs of horses or the riders themselves. The curved blade could be used to cut the legs of horses or to strike at the vulnerable areas of the riders.

Shivaji Maharaj recognized the importance of the Danda Patta and trained his soldiers extensively in its use. The weapon was widely used by the Maratha army and became an important tool in their success in battle. The Danda Patta was also a symbol of Maratha pride and courage, and many Maratha soldiers were proud to carry the weapon into battle

Khanjar

It also known as Khanjarli or Katar, is a type of dagger or short sword used by the Maratha warriors during the reign of Shivaji Maharaj. It is a thrusting weapon that features a triangular or diamond-shaped blade that is designed to penetrate armor and deliver fatal blows.

The Khanjar has a straight blade that typically measures around 12 to 18 inches in length. The blade is double-edged, which allows for both thrusting and slashing attacks. The handle of the Khanjar is typically made of wood or ivory and is designed to provide a secure grip for the wielder. The handle may also be adorned with intricate designs or precious stones to reflect the wealth and status of the owner.

The Khanjar was a popular weapon among the Maratha soldiers due to its ability to penetrate armor and deliver fatal blows. It was often used as a secondary weapon, worn alongside a larger sword or spear. The Khanjar was particularly effective in close-quarters combat, where the Maratha warriors could use its stabbing and thrusting attacks to quickly incapacitate their opponents.

Shivaji Maharaj recognized the importance of the Khanjar in battle and encouraged his soldiers to train in its use. Just like all other weapons of Shivaji Maharaj, Khanjar was widely used by the Maratha army and became an important tool in their success in battle. The Khanjar was also a symbol of Maratha bravery and courage, and many Maratha soldiers were proud to carry the weapon into battle.

Kurhaad

Kurhaad, also known as a war hammer or mace, was another weapon that was a part of Shivaji Maharaj’s arsenal. The Kurhaad was a heavy and powerful weapon that could crush bones and break armor, making it an effective tool in battle.

The Kurhaad consisted of a long handle made of wood or metal with a heavy head on one end. The head of the Kurhaad was typically made of iron or steel and could have a variety of shapes, including spherical, cylindrical, or pyramid-shaped.

Shivaji Maharaj was known for his skill in using the Kurhaad in combat. He would often use the weapon to strike his opponents with great force, causing severe damage and even death. The Kurhaad was particularly effective against armoured opponents, as the heavy head could crush through even the toughest armor.

One of the unique features of the Kurhaad was its versatility. The weapon could be used in a variety of ways, including as a bludgeoning tool or as a piercing weapon. Shivaji Maharaj would use the Kurhaad to deliver powerful blows to his opponents, often targeting the head or limbs.

Another advantage of the Kurhaad was its weight. The heavy head of the weapon could be used to knock opponents off balance, leaving them vulnerable to follow-up attacks. Shivaji Maharaj would often use the Kurhaad to create openings in his opponents’ defences, allowing him to strike with other weapons or techniques.

In addition to its use in combat, the Kurhaad also had ceremonial significance. It was often used in processions and ceremonies, symbolizing Shivaji Maharaj’s power and authority.

Gupti

Gupti, also known as the hidden dagger, was a weapon that was favoured by Shivaji Maharaj. The Gupti was a small and lightweight dagger that was designed to be hidden and easily concealable, making it an ideal tool for assassinations and surprise attacks.

The Gupti was typically made of high-quality steel and had a sharp, pointed blade that was only a few inches long. The handle of the Gupti was often intricately decorated with gold or silver, reflecting Shivaji Maharaj’s status as a warrior king.

Shivaji Maharaj was known for his use of the Gupti in combat. He would often use the weapon to deliver surprise attacks on his opponents, targeting vital areas such as the throat or heart. The Gupti was particularly effective in close-quarters combat, where its small size and concealability gave Shivaji Maharaj an advantage over his opponents.

One of the advantages of the Gupti was its versatility. The weapon could be used for both offensive and defensive purposes, allowing Shivaji Maharaj to deflect attacks and disarm opponents. The small size of the Gupti also meant that it could be used as a throwing weapon, making it an effective tool in ranged combat as well.

The Gupti was also an important symbol of Shivaji Maharaj’s authority. The weapon was often used in coronation ceremonies, where it symbolized the king’s power and ability to defend his people.

Kataar

Kataar, also known as the push dagger or punching dagger, was a weapon that was commonly used in India during the medieval period. The Kataar consisted of a short blade that was mounted perpendicular to a handle, allowing it to be thrust forward like a punch.

The Kataar was typically made of high-quality steel and was designed to be strong and durable. The blade was usually sharpened on both edges, making it an effective cutting and piercing weapon. The handle of the Kataar was often decorated with ornate designs, reflecting the weapon’s status as a symbol of power and authority.

Shivaji Maharaj was known for his use of the Kataar in combat. He would often use the weapon in close-quarters combat, thrusting the blade forward like a punch to strike his opponents. The Kataar was particularly effective against heavily-armoured opponents, as it could pierce through even the thickest armor.

One of the advantages of the Kataar was its speed and precision. The weapon could be quickly and easily thrust forward, allowing Shivaji Maharaj to deliver swift and deadly blows to his opponents. The short blade also made the Kataar ideal for use in confined spaces, such as narrow alleys or tight corridors.

The Kataar was also an important symbol of Shivaji Maharaj’s authority. The weapon was often used in coronation ceremonies, where it symbolized the king’s power and ability to protect his people.

Dhanushya-Baan

Dhanushya-Baan, also known as the bow and arrow, was one of the most important weapons in ancient and medieval India. The Dhanushya-Baan consisted of a long bow made of wood or bamboo and a set of arrows with sharp tips.

The bow was typically made of high-quality wood and was designed to be both strong and flexible. The bowstring was usually made of animal sinew or plant fibers, which provided the tension needed to propel the arrow forward. The arrows were made of lightweight materials such as bamboo or reed and were typically tipped with metal or stone points.

The Dhanushya-Baan was one of favoured weapons of Shivaji Maharaj when it comes to defend his forts with minimal forces. He would often use the weapon in battle, raining down arrows on his opponents from a distance. The bow was particularly effective against enemy cavalry, as the arrows could pierce through armor and injure the horse.

One of the advantages of the Dhanushya-Baan was its range and accuracy. The bow and arrow could be used to strike targets from a distance, allowing Shivaji Maharaj to attack his opponents without putting himself in harm’s way. The accuracy of the bow and arrow also made it an effective tool for hunting and food gathering.

Vajra Mushti

Vajra Mushti was a unique weapon used by Shivaji Maharaj and his soldiers. It is a type of weapon that is worn on the hand like a knuckle-duster and consists of a metal ball with spikes. The name Vajra Mushti comes from the Sanskrit words “vajra,” meaning thunderbolt or diamond, and “Mushti,” meaning fist.

This weapon was used for striking and punching in close combat. The metal ball with spikes could inflict serious damage to an opponent’s body, and the spikes could penetrate armor or clothing. It was particularly effective against enemies who were heavily armorer or had shields.

Vajra Mushti was not only a weapon but also a symbol of bravery and strength. Shivaji Maharaj himself was known to have used this weapon in battle, and it was often given as a gift to soldiers who had displayed exceptional courage and bravery on the battlefield.

The use of Vajra Mushti by the Maratha army demonstrates their ability to innovate and adapt to different situations. It was a weapon that was particularly effective in close combat, and its use allowed Shivaji Maharaj and his soldiers to overcome enemies who were heavily armoured or protected by shields. Overall, Vajra Mushti was an important part of the Maratha army’s arsenal and played a significant role in their military success.

Chakram

Chakram is a throwing weapon that was used by Shivaji Maharaj and his soldiers. It is a circular, flat, sharp-edged blade made of metal, with a diameter of 10 to 30 centimetres. The name “chakram” comes from the Sanskrit word “chakra,” which means “circle” or “wheel.”

The chakram was primarily used for throwing at enemies from a distance, and it was known for its accuracy and lethality. Shivaji Maharaj and his soldiers were skilled at using the chakram, and they could hit their targets with great precision. The chakram was particularly effective against enemies who were at a distance, as it could be thrown with great force and speed, and its sharp edges could inflict serious damage.

Apart from being a weapon, the chakram was also used in martial arts and for entertainment purposes. Shivaji Maharaj and his soldiers were known to perform various tricks and stunts with the chakram, such as throwing it and catching it in mid-air, or using it to slice objects.

The use of the chakram by the Maratha army demonstrates their ability to adapt and innovate in warfare. The effective use of the chakram, a unique weapon, requires a high level of skill and precision. It allowed Shivaji Maharaj and his soldiers to overcome enemies from a distance and gave them a significant advantage on the battlefield.

Featured Image Credits: Amit20081980, Source: Wikimedia