Shivaji Maharaj's 1666 Aurangabad Visit: A Glimpse into Maratha King's Growing Stature

• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj visited Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad) in April 1666 on his journey to Agra, eight years before his coronation.
• Despite not being part of Hindavi Swarajya, his arrival drew large crowds, showcasing his rising prominence.
• Mughal official Bhimsen Saxena's memoir 'Tarikh-i-Dilkusha' and Parkaldas's letter detail Shivaji Maharaj's contingent, public enthusiasm, and impressive entourage.
• His entourage included 500 well-dressed soldiers, a gold and silver-plated palki, elephants, camels, and his distinctive orange and vermilion flag.
• An incident with Mughal officer Saf Shikan Khan highlighted Shivaji Maharaj's assertive nature, leading to Khan eventually showing him due respect.