Shivaji's Naval Doctrine: Defending the Konkan Coast

While we have explored Shivaji’s cavalry, infantry, and espionage networks in previous episodes, his creation of a standing navy remains one of his most transformative strategic moves. This episode examines how Shivaji Maharaj responded to the maritime dominance of the Siddi pirates under Sultan Janjira and the encroaching interest of the English East India Company. We look at the appointment of Kanhoji Angre as commander of the naval forces and the construction of key coastal forts like Kolaba and Vijaydurg. The conversation details the specific tactics of 'Ganimi Kava' adapted for sea warfare, including the use of swift boats to outmaneuver larger European vessels. You will learn about the Darya Sarang, the tax levied on ships, which funded this fleet, and how this naval power allowed the Maratha Empire to control trade routes along the Konkan coast. From the initial raids on Surat’s shipping lanes to the formal treaties with foreign powers, we trace the evolution of Hindavi Swarajya’s maritime identity. Join Lucas and Luna as they unpack the logistical challenges of building a fleet in the seventeenth century and how Shivaji’s vision turned a regional kingdom into a dominant Indian Ocean power. #ShivajiMaharaj #MarathaEmpire #KanhojiAngre #SiddiPirates #KolabaFort #Vijaydurg #KonkanCoast #HindaviSwarajya #DaryaSarang #EnglishEastIndiaCompany #JanjiraFort #NavalHistory #IndianOceanTrade #GanimiKava #MughalNavy #AdilShahi #Raigad #History #FexingoHistory Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo