Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the great Maratha warrior-king and founder of the Maratha Empire, is one of the most revered figures in Indian history. Known for his unmatched bravery, strategic acumen, and progressive governance, Shivaji Maharaj also had a personal life that reflected the cultural and dynastic norms of his time.
Among his royal responsibilities was marrying multiple women—mostly to forge political alliances and maintain regional stability. Here are the Shivaji Maharaj 8 Wife Name you should definitely know about:
1. Saibai Nimbalkar
-
First and most beloved wife
-
Father: Nimbalkar of Phaltan (Deshmukh family)
-
Marriage Year: 1640 (at age 12)
-
Children: Sambhaji Maharaj (only surviving son of Shivaji)
-
Importance: Saibai was Shivaji’s most trusted and cherished companion. Known for her calm and noble personality, she died in 1659 when Sambhaji was just two years old.
2. Soyarabai Mohite
-
Father: Hambirrao Mohite
-
Relation: Sister of Shivaji’s commander-in-chief
-
Children: Rajaram Maharaj
-
Importance: Played a significant political role after Shivaji’s death. She wanted her son Rajaram to succeed the throne over Sambhaji, which led to power struggles.
3. Putalabai
-
Title: Chief Queen (Pativrata Patni)
-
Children: None
-
Importance: She committed sati (self-immolation) on Shivaji’s funeral pyre in 1680, showing her loyalty and devotion. Highly respected in Maratha history.
4. Sagunabai
-
Children: None known
-
Importance: Not much is recorded in popular history, but she is listed among the royal consorts.
5. Kashibai Jadhav
-
Family Background: From the Jadhav family, possibly connected to Jijabai’s side (Shivaji’s mother)
-
Children: None known
-
Importance: Likely part of a political alliance.
6. Lakshmibai
-
Background: Married into the royal household as part of an alliance
-
Children: None known
-
Importance: Her presence in the court reflects Shivaji’s emphasis on regional marital alliances.
7. Gunvantibai
-
Details: Not much is documented about her, but she is mentioned in some historical accounts.
-
Importance: Royal consort within the Maratha harem.
8. Sakvarbai (Sakubai)
-
Children: None
-
Importance: Survived Shivaji and was later captured during Mughal raids. Refused to remarry and lived in captivity, which reflects her strong character and loyalty.
Summary Table
| Wife’s Name | Children | Key Role/Fact |
|---|---|---|
| Saibai | Sambhaji Maharaj | Most loved wife, died young |
| Soyarabai | Rajaram Maharaj | Politically ambitious, caused succession war |
| Putalabai | None | Committed sati, considered chief queen |
| Sagunabai | None | Limited records |
| Kashibai | None | Alliance marriage |
| Lakshmibai | None | Royal consort |
| Gunvantibai | None | Less documented wife |
| Sakvarbai | None | Captured by Mughals, never remarried |
Historical Context
During the 17th century, marriages among royals often had strategic, political, and dynastic purposes. Shivaji’s multiple marriages helped:
-
Forge alliances with regional leaders.
-
Secure loyalties of influential families.
-
Create a unified Maratha kingdom.
Did You Know?
-
Shivaji Maharaj treated his wives with dignity and ensured they lived in separate palaces with full honor.
-
He never forced his wives into politics unless they were willing participants.
-
His respect for women extended beyond the palace—he forbade the harassment or abduction of women during war.
Final Thoughts
While Shivaji Maharaj’s valor on the battlefield is widely celebrated, understanding the women in his life gives us deeper insight into his personal values, diplomacy, and human side. These queens not only supported him emotionally but also shaped important chapters of Maratha history.
