How much do we know about Marathas? Except that we know about Chtrapathi Shivaji and his famous battles with the Mughal Empire, not much is known. Don't you agree?
While our textbooks always had glorified the Mughals, they hardly gave any preference or information about the "Son of the Soil - Marathas" and thankfully, with writers like Shreyas Bhave, we get to read some really good informative write-ups in the form of the novel. It is only after reading this novel, I realized this great warrior Shivaji had a lot of other eminent with him who helped him conquer the kingdom from time to time. The most important personalities during his reign were Bahirji-Naik
These were the mysterious figure. I also got to know about The Guptachar(Intelligence Chief/Spy) of the Maratha Kingdom.
There were 4 main events where Bahirji played a vital role:
Siege of Panhala Port,1660
Battle of Umberkhind,1661
Raid of Surat(Mughal economic stronghold),1664 &
Escape from Aurangazeb’s court, 1666
This novel is about the Raid of Surat which is explained in detail in an interesting manner. What was even more appealing is the in-depth knowledge that Shreyas possess. He has visited Surat Qilla Fort and sketched it after visiting the Fort. This is Book 1 and there are sequels to it. I am sure once you finish reading this book, you will be looking forward to the sequels.
The main character in this novel is Guptachar.
Mystical characters - Bahirji Bandal & Sadashiv Naik
Below mentioned are some of the chapters I have given to my readers in brie to read and I have stopped after a few because I might end up giving more than what is required. I am sure these would surely evoke interest in you:
Katraj (9 months before)- Lighting up cow’s tail with fire 🔥
Road to Suwali (8 months before) - When Ali claims that Mohandas Parekh was dead, Haji Kasim never showed any feelings. Was the master who tasked Ali to kill everyone, Virji Vora(the powerful and wealthy trader)?
Vora’s Gambit (7 months before) - coral 🪸 trading. What did Virji Vora discuss with Sir George Oxenden?
The Boy Rebel (7 months before) - Shashidwaj reselling against Zamindar.
The Lion’s Den(6 months before) - What agreement does Oxenden enters into with Muhabbat Khan & Inayat Khan?
Atop Rajgad(5 months before) - How did Rajgad get its name? How was Shashidheaj gets trained? Will he become a Guptachar?
A bet in the market(4 months earlier) - How Vora manipulates the market?
Atop the Balekilla(4 months earlier) - Conversation between Raje & Netoji (Sarnaubat). What is Umberkhind?
The Plan(3 months before)
I am stopping it here because as mentioned earlier, you need to pick up a copy to read further and enjoy the essence that these great Maratha Warriors enjoyed during their time and the sacrifices they need to make coupled with bravery, obedience, trust, and allegiance they had placed over Chtrapathi Shivaji Maharaj.
The previous book of the author "Prisoner of Yakutsk" was another gem and I had the opportunity to review that book as well. You can read the review here
EmoticonEmoticon