Maharaja Chhatrasal

Maharaja Chhatrasal (1649 AD -1731 AD) was a Bundela Rajput who played an important role in the dismantling of the Mughal empire of Aurangzeb. He was born to Bundela royals Champat Rai and Sarandha. He was only 12 years old when his father Champat Rai fell out with Aurangzeb. His wife Sarandha were surrounded by Mughal soldiers while returning Bundelkhand. It is said that to avoid being captured by Mughal soldiers, his wife (mother of Chhtrasal) Sarandha killed her husband Champat Rai and herself. 

 

After losing his parents, Chhatrasal travelled to Maharashtra and got the blessings and guidance of Veer Shivaji Maharaj. He raised the banner of revolt at the tender age of 22 with the help of mere 30 soldiers. He continued guerrilla warfare against Mughal till he declared independence in 1720 AD. He never lost any battle except the last one at the age of 79 years. However, with the help of Marathas, he eventually won that war as well. 

 

He was a patron of literature, and there were several noted poets. He constructed many temples including one Jain temple at Jain pilgrimage Kundalpur.