Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Samadhi Sthal – Vadhu – Tulapur
(Born – 14 May 1657 – Died – 11 March 1689)
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of the great Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, was a fearless warrior and an able ruler of the Maratha Empire. His unwavering commitment to Swarajya and his refusal to submit to the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb led to his brutal execution. The Dharmaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Samadhi Sthal, located at Tulapur, is a place of great historical and cultural significance, as it stands as a testament to his sacrifice and bravery.
The Martyrdom of Dharmaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj
After the death of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1680, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj ascended the throne and carried forward the legacy of his father. He was known for his military prowess and sharp intellect, which made him a formidable adversary to the Mughals. Under his leadership, the Marathas fiercely resisted Mughal expansion. However, in 1689, he was captured by Mughal forces led by Mukarrab Khan at Sangameshwar.

Aurangzeb, who saw Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj as his biggest obstacle in conquering the Deccan, subjected him to inhumane torture for weeks, trying to force him to convert to Islam. Despite the immense suffering, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj stood firm and refused to betray his faith and his people. Infuriated by his defiance, Aurangzeb ordered his execution. On 11 March 1689, he was brutally killed at Tulapur, and his body was dismembered and thrown into the river.
Historical Significance of Tulapur
Tulapur, a historically important village located 32 km from Pune, was originally known as Nagargaon. The name Tulapur is derived from an incident involving Murar Jagdev, the vizier of the Adilshahi Sultanate, who donated 24 tolas of gold, equivalent to the weight of an elephant, to this land. This village is renowned for its confluence of three rivers – Bhima, Bhama, and Indrayani – making it a spiritually significant location.

This village holds a unique place in Maratha history, as it was the site where Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj took an oath of Swarajya in the presence of Sangameshwar Mahadev, before formally establishing the Maratha kingdom. Tulapur remains an important historical landmark, not only because of its connection to Shivaji Maharaj but also due to its association with the ultimate sacrifice of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.
The Monument and Memorial
Upon entering the samadhi complex, visitors are greeted by a striking sculpture of Sambhaji Maharaj breaking open the jaw of a tiger. This sculpture, which represents his legendary bravery, immediately evokes a sense of admiration and respect.

Moving ahead, one finds a grand statue of Sambhaji Maharaj, standing tall with a sword in hand and gazing towards the sky, symbolizing his indomitable spirit. This statue, placed on an elevated platform, is complemented by a saffron flag waving in the background, reinforcing the legacy of Hindavi Swarajya. The samadhi (memorial) itself is a simple yet powerful reminder of his supreme sacrifice.

The Samadhi of Kavi Kalash
Kavi Kalash, a close friend, advisor, and poet in the court of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, was also captured and executed alongside him. He was a scholar of Sanskrit and Persian and played a crucial role in supporting Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj both administratively and emotionally. Kavi Kalash’s samadhi, located close to that of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, is a tribute to his unwavering loyalty and friendship. The plaque at his memorial commemorates his dedication and his ultimate sacrifice for the Maratha cause.

Sangameshwar Temple – A Spiritual Landmark
Located near the samadhi, the Sangameshwar Temple holds immense religious and historical significance. It is said that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj took the oath of Swarajya in front of the Shivlinga at this temple before officially declaring the establishment of the Maratha kingdom.

Built in the Hemadpanthi architectural style, this temple stands as a magnificent structure amidst lush greenery. The temple has been renovated multiple times, with notable restoration efforts by Shahaji Maharaj and later Murarpant Jagdev. Even today, devotees visit this temple to seek blessings and pay homage to the Maratha warriors who fought relentlessly for their motherland.
The Last Rites Controversy
The issue of who performed the last rites of Sambhaji Maharaj has been a subject of debate. According to popular historical records, Govind Mahar (Gaikwad), a Dalit resident of Vadhu village, bravely collected the scattered remains of the king and performed the funeral rites. His contribution is widely acknowledged, and a simple samadhi in his honor stands in Vadhu village. However, some accounts suggest that Shivle Deshmukh, a local chief, may have also played a role in the cremation.
Regardless of these claims, what remains undisputed is the collective effort of the villagers, who risked their lives to ensure that their beloved king received a dignified farewell.

A Must-Visit Historical Site
A visit to Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Samadhi Sthal is an emotional and patriotic experience. The historical significance of the site, combined with its scenic surroundings at the confluence of the three rivers, makes it an important destination for tourists, history enthusiasts, and devotees alike. The site is well-maintained, and visitors often leave with a renewed sense of respect and inspiration from the legacy of Sambhaji Maharaj.
Conclusion
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s legacy continues to inspire generations with his unwavering courage, dedication to Swarajya, and ultimate sacrifice. His refusal to surrender to Aurangzeb’s tyranny, despite enduring unimaginable torture, makes him an immortal figure in Indian history.
Visiting Vadhu-Tulapur is not just about witnessing a historical site; it is about paying homage to a hero who stood tall against oppression. As one stands before his samadhi, the air is filled with reverence, and the heart swells with pride. The legacy of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj will forever be etched in the annals of history, serving as a guiding light for all those who believe in the values of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering faith.