Shivaji’s Great Escape from Aurangzeb’s Captivity Using Sweet Baskets – A Masterstroke in Strategy
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's narrow escape from Aurangzeb's imprisonment in Agra is among the most electrifying and cunning moves in Indian history. The manner in which he deceived the Mughal emperor's guards with nothing but his strategic genius and cunning is a legend in itself. This blog delves into the episode in painstaking detail, from historical dates to important characters and the clever escape strategy. --- Background: Why Was Shivaji in Agra? In 1665, following the Treaty of Purandar, Shivaji Maharaj was compelled to give away 23 forts and huge areas of land to the Mughals. He also had to send his son, Sambhaji, and a military contingent to serve under the Mughal general, Mirza Raja Jai Singh I. As part of this uncomfortable peace, Jai Singh persuaded Shivaji to go to the Mughal court at Agra to meet Emperor Aurangzeb, who offered him a high office in the Mughal government. Having faith in the diplomatic route, Shivaji and Sambhaji arrived at Agra on May 12, 166...