U.S, Feb. 20 -- February 19 is a day of profound pride in Indian history, as we commemorate the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This is not merely the remembrance of a birth date; it is the celebration of Indian identity, self-respect, and a remarkable chapter of cultural resurgence that lit the lamp of Swarajya amid the darkness of subjugation. In the seventeenth century, when a large part of India lay under Mughal rule-particularly the rigid authority of Aurangzeb-a young warrior arose from the Sahyadri ranges and declared that "Hindavi Swarajya" was not just a dream, but a solemn resolve-and he transformed that resolve into reality.

Shivaji Maharaj was born in 1630 at the fort of Shivneri. Contrary to popular belief,...