<h4>The Grand Coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj</h4><p>On <strong>6th June 1674</strong>, a pivotal event in Maratha history unfolded. <strong>Shivaji Maharaj</strong> was formally crowned as the king of the Marathas. This grand ceremony took place at <strong>Raigad Fort</strong>, marking the official establishment of an independent Maratha kingdom.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Date of Coronation:</strong> 6th June 1674</p><p><strong>Location:</strong> Raigad Fort</p><p><strong>Significance:</strong> Formal declaration of Maratha sovereignty and independence.</p></div><h4>Adoption of Imperial Titles</h4><p>Upon his coronation, <strong>Shivaji Maharaj</strong> adopted several significant titles. These titles were not merely ceremonial but carried profound political and religious implications, asserting his legitimate authority and status.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p><strong>Key Titles Adopted:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Chhatrapati:</strong> Meaning 'Lord of the Umbrella' or 'Paramount Sovereign', symbolizing his status as an independent monarch.</li><li><strong>Shakakarta:</strong> 'Founder of an Era' or 'Era-maker', signifying the beginning of a new epoch under Maratha rule.</li><li><strong>Kshatriya Kulavantas:</strong> 'Head of the Kshatriya Race', asserting his claim to the warrior caste and traditional royal lineage.</li><li><strong>Haindava Dharmoddharak:</strong> 'Protector of the Hindu Faith', highlighting his role as a defender of Hindu dharma against foreign rule.</li></ul></div><div class='exam-tip-box'><p><strong>UPSC Insight:</strong> The coronation and adoption of titles by <strong>Shivaji Maharaj</strong> are crucial for understanding the concepts of state formation, legitimacy, and the assertion of regional power in medieval India. Questions often focus on the symbolism and political implications.</p></div>