Henry Oxenden ने अपनी डायरी में शिवाजी महाराज का राज्याभिषेक का वर्णन इस अंदाज़ में किया हैं - EP 15

Witness to Majesty – Henry Oxinden’s Eye-Witness Account of Shivaji Maharaj’s Coronation

Henry Oxinden, an envoy of the British East India Company, was one of the few European witnesses to the grand coronation of Shivaji Maharaj at Raigad on June 6, 1674. His account provides a vivid and mesmerizing description of the ceremony, capturing the magnificence, rituals, and the power dynamics at play in the Maratha court.

As dawn broke over Raigad Fort, the air was filled with the chants of 20,000 Brahmins, echoing the sacred hymns of the Vedas. The smell of burning incense and freshly scattered flowers lingered in the grand hall as Shivaji Maharaj ascended the golden throne, anointed by holy waters brought from the seven sacred rivers of India.

The Throne of Power: A dazzling sight met Oxinden’s eyes—the grand throne, adorned with solid gold, precious gems, and intricate carvings, radiated authority. The Maharaj, seated in regal splendor, wore a crown embedded with diamonds, pearls, and emeralds. His royal robes shimmered in the sunlight, his hands resting firmly on the arms of his throne, embodying the true spirit of a sovereign ruler.

The Royal Court’s Presence: Around him stood the Nobles, Sardars, and Ministers, each wearing embroidered robes and heavy gold jewelry, their faces reflecting reverence and pride. On either side of the throne, gold-plated ceremonial weapons, banners, and emblems of power stood as symbols of Maratha sovereignty. Two massive golden fish heads with sharp teeth, a sign of divine authority, flanked the right side, while horse tails and golden scales representing justice adorned the left.

The Moment of Coronation: The sacred abhishek (anointment) began, as priests poured sacred water, turmeric, and sandalwood paste over Shivaji’s head while reciting ancient hymns. The conch shells roared, drums thundered, and a thousand bells rang in unison. A Brahmin of high repute, seated just below the throne, performed the final rituals, declaring Shivaji as the Chhatrapati—The Sovereign Emperor of Hindavi Swarajya.

The Foreign Observer’s Perspective: From a respectful distance, Oxinden and his entourage watched in awe. As a gesture of goodwill, Oxinden’s interpreter held up a diamond ring intended as a gift for the newly crowned king. Shivaji, in acknowledgment, permitted them to step forward briefly, recognizing their presence before continuing the elaborate rituals.

The Grand Exit: As Oxinden left the royal court, he observed two finely decorated elephants and richly adorned horses standing at the palace gates, a marvel in itself, given the steep and treacherous paths leading to the fort. The grand spectacle was a testament to the sheer might, wealth, and meticulous planning of Shivaji’s rule, leaving an indelible impression on the British envoy.

This breathtaking eye-witness account of Shivaji’s coronation offers a rare and detailed glimpse into one of the most significant moments in Indian history, as seen through the eyes of a foreign diplomat.

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