Abstract: The present research paper studies the portrayal of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as an “Ideal Hindu King” in Swami Vivekananda’s essay “Shivaji.” It examines how Vivekananda presents Shivaji Maharaj as a symbol of moral strength, spiritual discipline, and righteous governance rooted in Hindu cultural values. The study highlights Shivaji Maharaj’s commitment to dharma, justice, tolerance, and welfare of the people, which Vivekananda regards as essential qualities of ideal kingship. The paper also analyzes how Vivekananda uses Shivaji Maharaj’s life to inspire national self-respect and cultural regeneration during colonial rule. By connecting political leadership with spiritual ideals, Vivekananda portrays Shivaji Maharaj as a model ruler who balances power with compassion and faith with duty. The research adopts a textual and interpretative approach to show that Vivekananda’s portrayal goes beyond history and functions as a moral and ideological framework for nation-building.
Borse et al. (Sat,) studied this question.