Maharaja Chhatrasal
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | October 2, 1987 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | 60 p |
| Quantity | 1,000,000 |
| Perforation | Comb 14 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Chestnut |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1110 Stamp Number IN 1172 Yvert et Tellier IN 925 Stanley Gibbons IN 1258 |
| Themes | Animals (Fauna) | Commemoration | Equestrianism and horse riding | Famous people | Heroes | Horses | Mammals | Men |
Maharaja Chhatrasal
Maharaja Chhatrasal, born around 1649 A.D. in the forest of Maur hill near Kakar Kachnaye village, was a significant historical figure known for his valor and dedication to establishing an independent kingdom in Bundelkhand. He was born to Champatrai Bundela and Lal Kunwar. Champatrai, having lost his ancestral estate of Mahoba, lived a nomadic life due to his conflict with the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, which deprived Chhatrasal of a formal education.
Early Life and Training
- Loss and Training: At the age of 12, after the death of his parents, Chhatrasal left Sahra and joined the Mughal troops of Raja Jai Singh along with his brother Angaraj.
- Courage in Battle: He exhibited great courage during the attacks on Bijapur and Purandar.
- Influence of Shivaji: Inspired by Shivaji, he left the Mughal camp to meet him. Shivaji welcomed him, presenting him a sword and imparting lessons in military organization.
Military Campaigns and Achievements
- Formation of Army: At 22, Chhatrasal mobilized an army and took command. Establishing his military headquarters at Mhow (Sahania), he pledged to uproot Mughal power from Bundelkhand.
- Victories: He defeated various Mughal generals to capture Sironj, Dhamoni, Sagar, Damoh, Garhakotha, Mahoba, Kalpi, and other territories.
- Independent Kingdom: As the Mughal Empire disintegrated, the Bundelas established an independent and powerful kingdom between the rivers Narmada and Yamuna.
Siege and Alliance
- Siege of Jaitpur Fort: In 1728-29, the combined forces of the Nawab of Farrukhabad and Subedar of Allahabad, Mohammed Shah Bangash, besieged Chhatrasal in Jaitpur fort.
- Alliance with Peshwa Baji Rao: He sought the help of Peshwa Baji Rao, and together they defeated their enemies.
Legacy and Death
- Peaceful Rule: After a peaceful independent rule of two years, Maharaja Chhatrasal died around 1731 A.D.
- Literary Contributions: Besides being a distinguished warrior, he was also a patron of men of letters and a literary talent himself. He is considered the author of ‘Krishna Charit,’ ‘Radhakrishna Pachisi,’ and ‘Hanuman Pachisi.’
- Just Ruler: Known to be a just ruler, he served his people with dedication, ensuring their welfare and not merely ruling over them.
The Department of Posts is privileged to issue a commemorative stamp honoring Maharaja Chhatrasal’s remarkable life and contributions to India’s history.