Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj,s Navy a versatile and multifaceted Fighting...

The following aspects will covered in this article:-

·         Ships  And Weapons Used By Shivaji Maharaj's Navy

·         Tasks Undertaken By Shivaji Maharaj's Navy.

·         Tactics Employed by Shivaji Maharaj's Navy

·         Strengths of the Shivaji Maharaj's

·         Important  Battles Fought by

·         Defeating The Siddi of Janjira

·         Shivaji Maharaj Navy a versatile and multifaceted entity

Training Imparted To Soldiers To Fight The European, Siddhi Navies Effectively

 

Shivaji Maharaj implemented various training methods to prepare his soldiers and sailors to effectively combat the European navies and the Siddhi Navy. The training focused on developing skills and tactics suited for naval warfare of that era.

 

Naval Combat Techniques: This included instruction in close-quarter combat, boarding enemy ships, and hand-to-hand combat skills. Soldiers were trained to use weapons such as swords, spears, and muskets effectively in the confined spaces of ships.

 

Ship Handling and Navigation: Training encompassed ship handling and navigation skills. Sailors were taught how to handle different types of vessels and smaller boats. They were trained in maneuvering ships, setting sails, navigating coastal waters, and understanding wind patterns and tides.

 

Gunnery Training: Soldiers and sailors were taught how to operate cannons effectively, including loading, aiming, and firing cannons accurately. Gunnery training also included knowledge of different types of ammunition and their uses.

 

Naval Warfare Tactics: This included tactics such as hit-and-run attacks, coastal raids, surprise assaults, and guerrilla warfare strategies. Soldiers were trained in the art of ambushing enemy ships, utilizing the element of surprise, and exploiting the coastal geography to gain an advantage.

Physical Fitness and Endurance: Soldiers and sailors were subjected to rigorous physical training. This included exercises to build strength, stamina, and endurance. Physical fitness was crucial for combat effectiveness, especially during boarding actions and long periods at sea.

The Mallakhamb, or vertical pole, erected on each ship served multiple purposes. It was primarily used for training and exercise of the soldiers on board. Soldiers would practice various physical exercises, such as climbing, balancing, and acrobatics, to improve their agility, strength, and combat skills.

Leadership and Discipline: Training programs emphasized obedience, teamwork, and the importance of following orders. Soldiers were trained to maintain discipline during battles and to exhibit strong leadership qualities when required.

 

Countering European Tactics: Shivaji Maharaj sought the assistance of European experts and adopted certain aspects of European naval warfare, such as the use of broadside cannon fire, in his training programs. This allowed his forces to effectively counter the tactics employed by European navies.

 

Shivaji Maharaj's training methods were dynamic and evolved over time. He regularly sought input from experienced sailors and experts and adapted his training programs based on the changing nature of warfare. This ensured that his forces were well-prepared to face the challenges posed by the European and Siddhi Navies.

Ships And Weapons Used By Shivaji Maharaj's Navy

The Gurab fighting ship was of 150-300 ton capacity and had two 9 to 12 pounder cannons in the front and 6 to 9 pounder cannons on the side.

The Galbat was a smaller ship with 2-4 pounder Canon guns,Ship was manned  by 40-50 sailers and with speed of 6 km per hour.

Galbat: were large warships employed by the Maratha Navy. They were sturdy vessels with a robust structure and significant cargo-carrying capacity. Galbats were armed with cannons and equipped with multiple decks to accommodate a large crew.They were primarily used for naval warfare and played a crucial role in engaging enemy fleets and coastal defenses. These warships provided firepower, stability, and a platform for boarding actions.

Gallivat: were smaller ships used by the Maratha Navy. They were swift and maneuverable vessels, often equipped with sails and oars. Gallivats had a shallow draft, allowing them to navigate shallow coastal waters and enter narrow estuaries.They were versatile ships that performed various roles, including coastal patrol, reconnaissance, and escorting larger vessels. They were well-suited for hit-and-run tactics, coastal raids, and transporting soldiers for amphibious operations.

Merchant Ships Dhows

Dhows were traditional sailing vessels commonly used for trade and transportation in the Indian Ocean. They had a distinctive design with a triangular or lateen sail and a shallow draft, allowing them to navigate coastal waters effectively.

Shivaji Maharaj's navy made use of dhows for maritime trade and transportation along the coastal regions. These vessels played a role in facilitating commerce, ensuring the supply of goods, and maintaining connections with other regions.

The weapons used by Shivaji Maharaj's navy