Navy of Ancient India

Source– This post is based on the article “Navy Day: As PM Modi praises Shivaji’s naval prowess, a look at the Maratha Navy” published in “The Indian Express” on 5th December 2023.

Why in the News?

PM Narendra Modi, on the occasion of Navy Day (December 4), highlighted Shivaji’s naval power, and announced that epaulettes (ornamental shoulder pieces denoting rank) adorned by naval officers will soon carry his emblem.

How Indian Navy acknowledged the naval power of the Marathas, under Shivaji?

1) INS Shivaji: To commemorate the sea-faring prowess of the Marathas, under Shivaji, the Indian Navy has named its training establishment in Lonavala as INS Shivaji.

2) INS Angre: The shore-based logistics and administrative hub of the Western Naval Command, Mumbai, is named as INS Angre — after Kanhoji Angre (1669-1729), the celebrated Maratha naval commander.

3) New Naval Ensign: The use of the octagonal design of the seal of Shivaji on the new Naval Ensign.

What is the history of Shivaji’s Naval Power?

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the great Maratha ruler, is considered by many as the ‘Father of the Indian Navy’. It is him who laid the foundation of a modern navy in India.

Birth of the Maratha Navy (1661-1663): Between 1661 and 1663, the Maratha Navy came into existence, and at its peak included 400-odd ships of various kinds and sizes.

Philosophy of Naval Dominance: Historians note that his vision for the navy was based in his belief – “Jalameva yasya, balameva tasya”, which translates to “He who rules over the seas is all powerful”

Construction of multiple naval forts– Between 1653 and 1680, Shivaji ordered the construction of multiple naval forts, starting with the Vijaydurg in 1653, and followed by the likes of Sindhudurg and Kolaba. They were used to keep a watch on enemies approaching via the seas.

Limitation of this navy: While the Marathas could hold their own in littoral waters but could not challenge European naval power in the high seas.

UPSC Syllabus- History