________________
history of Shivaji Maharaj, side by side with his heroics and wild ventures. Mere recitals and study of traditional epics like Mahabharata and Ramayana alone will not guide us in the present circumstances, whilst dealing with western diplomats. We have to deal with greatest diplomats of modern age and Shivaji's tactics of diamond cut diamond' would be of great practical utility.
as in
To-day, even his worst enemies and critics, the representatives of the British Crown, acknowledge his greatness and skill, and recognise him as a genius both in the battle-field, as well the Council Chambers. It is a strange irony of fate, tnat British Governors should consider it an honour and a previledge, now, to participate in functions, to perpetuate his memory and appeal to modern Maharastrian youths to emulate his glorious example. During his life-time, there was no name more detestable and dreaded by the foreigners than Shivaji's. He had acquired velocity and speed of aeroplanes and motor cars, even in days when theso machines were not invented and his sudden attack created as much panic and fright as the modern Zeppllins during the last Great war, Modern warfare has become a mechanical affair and achievements are due more to skill and science than to personal bravery and physical power; but in the days of Shivaji, his wonderful military feats, were due entirely to his personal exertions without the aid of modem appliances. It was the triumph of the man and not of science and machine. In that respect he stands above all the modern great military commanders and perhaps there are very rare instances, in the history of the world, when such phenomenal rise and success was attained in comparatively short time in the face of almost insurmountable difficulties.
Let every Indian youth acquire these traits in Shivaji's character. With perseverance, patience, dogged determination, tact and courage, there is no undertaking, however difficult, that one cannot master and overcome.
Khurshed. F. Nariman B. A. L. L. B. Advocate, Bombay.
*
There can be no doubt that Shivaji is an outstanding persona: lity in Indian history. The deeply religious life of his mother
Shree Sudharmaswami Gyanbhandar-Umara, Surat
www.umaragyanbhandar.com
