Description
Author Ranjeet Salvi feels that this book, intensively researched over a period of twenty years, is a must-read for all. The story is about the great Maratha warrior, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Shivaji was born with the sole purpose of resurrecting Hinduism in the Deccan, in the 17th century, after nearly 350 years of bludgeoning tyranny in the wake of the first infiltration into the Deccan by Alauddin Khilji at the end of the 13th century; the Deccan region had been ruthlessly devastated and ground to dust by the Muslim rulers. Shivaji achieved this gargantuan task in a short span of thirty-five years, restoring the mangled self-esteem of the Hindus.
The no-holds-barred saga is the author’s understanding of the great warrior king through his deep research of the anecdotes, folklore, and narratives passed on over generations, which combine to define Shivaji’s divine personality. This book should be read as a story paying homage to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and not a historical rendering as such. The author also brings to the attention of the readers many episodes showcasing Shivaji’s great respect and regard for women. The anecdotes have been taken from various publications on the subject by eminent historians like Jadunath Sarkar and Grant Duff, and writers like Babasaheb Purandare, Ranjit Desai, Shivaji Sawant, Nath Madhav, and Abraham Eraly. Many of these are written and published in Marathi. This book is one of the few that have been written in English for those who wish to discover more about this valiant Maratha in this international language.
Ranjeet’s love for this great warrior king and his unflinching dedication to such a daunting task is laudable. Passion never fails to be a driving force for writers of his ilk.
yogiimpression –
Shivaji — Son of India is a meticulously researched book drawing upon the works of renowned historians, Marathi sources, and oral history. The result is a fascinating account of one of the greatest warriors India has ever known. While adhering to historical facts, the author has taken licence to recreate scenes and dialogues to make the account more engaging for contemporary readers. It portrays Shivaji’s unwavering adherence to dharma, his courage, and his military prowess, making the narration a fitting tribute to a visionary leader.
– General (Dr) Manoj Mukund Naravane (Retd), PVSM, AVSM, SM, VSM, PhD
yogiimpression –
Shivaji — Son of India is a fabulous book written by Ranjeet Salvi. It portrays details of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s life and his bonding with his mother, Jijabai, as well as with his subordinates. The author gives a relatively deep insight into how Shivaji became powerful and expanded his empire with his bravery and determination. This book will indeed be a great guide for everyone.
– Dr Baba Patil, Retired associate professor and head of the Marathi Department, Bharatiya Vidhya Bhavan
yogiimpression –
It is indeed a great labour of love and passion that Shri Ranjeet Salvi has been able to create. His enthusiasm to tell a story that needs to be told in the English language is to be lauded. He has gone through a vast treasure trove of history-based literature to conjure up this wonderful work, which I am sure will hold the attention of readers across all age groups over time. All my good wishes for the success of this book. May it reach a wide readership to spread the message about the phenomenal work of this Son of India — Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Dr Nitin Kareer, Additional Chief Secretary (Finance), Government of Maharashtra
yogiimpression –
It is a pity that very few Indians know about their great heroes and heroines and are educated in a totally Westernised context. Luckily, to bridge this knowledge gap, Ranjeet Salvi — an IITian, former corporate leader, and son of a military veteran who fought in the Second World War — took up the mantle of unveiling the truth about Shivaji’s life. I recommend this book Shivaji — Son of India, not only to all the youth of India but even to the elders so that they soak in the greatness, courage, and selflessness of one of the mightiest heroes of India.
Francois Gautier, French journalist based in India and author of many books on history and Indology; founder of a private museum on Indian history in Pune
yogiimpression –
Ranjeet’s deep research into the life and times of Shivaji convinced him that though the many historical versions of Shivaji had celebrated his many leadership qualities, they had not accorded him enough recognition for establishing a Hindu kingdom in medieval India. This book is one man’s mission to address that lacuna. Filled with an amazing amount of detail and breezily written, this compact book could not have been timed better.
Ajay Kumar, Senior journalist and former executive editor, The Economic Times
yogiimpression –
Ranjeet Salvi’s incredible book, Shivaji — Son of India, is sweeping in its sheer ambition and scale, and definitively captures the place, time, and essence of the man in all his glory. If there is one book you should pick up to understand the life of one of India’s most revered sons, this is it!
Siddharth Roy Kapur, Filmmaker
yogiimpression –
Chhatrapati Shivaji, the rebel who founded an empire, is one of the most consequential characters in Indian history. Using a plethora of sources, Ranjeet Salvi brings alive the man and his times, his character and his motivations. This is not just a history of late medieval politics but one of high adventure and extraordinary personal courage.
Sanjeev Sanyal, Economist and best-selling author
yogiimpression –
Ranjeet Salvi’s eleven years of research on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is well reflected in his book Shivaji — Son of India. Shivaji re-established Hindu sovereignty in India at a time when Mughal hegemony was at its peak. This book is a comprehensive encyclopaedia, a compelling account of the lineage, birth, and heroic exploits (including rare and lesser-known facets) of the great warrior. It is a must-have in every home.
Manoshi Sinha, Author of eight books and founder editor of
http://www.myindiamyglory.com
yogiimpression –
With utmost rigour for historical detail, yet dotted with tales and fables, this book, Shivaji — Son of India, is immensely valuable and readable. To Ranjeet Salvi, heartiest congratulations.
Dr Ravin Thatte, Plastic surgeon and author of several books on Indian philosophy
yogiimpression –
As a psychologist working with intergenerational trauma, I found the book Shivaji — Son of India to be of deep interest. This book will take us to that part of our historical past telling us why and how Shivaji fought despite enormous odds (a reality unknown to most of the present Indians) and why the book is needed today and, maybe, forever. It will help us identify with him who has, perhaps, no other equal in the medieval history of our country.
Prof. Rajat Mitra, Psychologist and author