छावा (कादंबरी)- शिवाजी सावंत यांनी 1980 मध्ये प्रकाशित झालेली त्यांची छावा ही कादंबरी छत्रपती संभाजींच्या जीवनावर आधारित आहे- 1995 पासून त्यांनी महाराष्ट्र साहित्य परिषदेचे उपाध्यक्षपद भूषवले 1983 च्या बडोदा साहित्य संमेलनाचे ते अध्यक्ष होते- केवळ ऐतिहासिक लेखकच नव्हते तर राजकीय लेखकही होते
संभाजी राजांचा जन्म 14 मे इ स- 1957 रोजी किल्ले पुरंदर येथे झाला- संभाजी महाराज हे शिवाजी महाराज आणि सईबाई यांचे थोरले चिरंजीव आणि मराठा साम्राज्याचे दुसरे छत्रपती होते- पण तरीही त्यांचा जीवन काळ अतिशय कठीण होता- ते जन्मापासूनच बिकट परिस्थितीत अडकत गेले- सर्व परिस्थीतींशी सामना करत हे शूर पुरुष अवघ्या महाराष्ट्राचे प्रेरणास्थान बनले- 16 जानेवारी इ स- 1681 रोजी संभाजीरांचा राज्याभिषेक झाला या सर्व सुख-दुखांच्या प्रसंगात शंभूपत्नी येसूबाईनी दिलेल्या साथिचे सुंदर वर्णन छावा मध्ये केले आहे संभाजीराजांच्या नेतृत्वाखाली मराठ्यांनी हिमतीने खूप लुढे दिले, मराठ्यांच्या झुंझारपणाची कितीतरी उदाहरणे संभाजीराजांच्या कारकिर्दीत झाली. संभाजीराजांनी केलेल्या लढायांची पुस्तकात केलेले वर्णन वाचकाना प्रेरित करतात. संभाजीराजांचा मृत्यूपूर्वीच्या 40 दिवसांचे अतिशय हृदय पिळवून टाकणारे वर्णन असलेली शेवटची 20 पाने वाचताना वाचकाच्या मनात संताप आणि डोळ्यात अश्रू भरून येतात. ही निघृण हत्या मार्च 11 इ.स.1689 रोजी भीमा इंद्रायणी नदीच्या संगमावरील तुळापूर येथे करण्यात आली. पण इतक्या अत्याचारानंतरही संभाजीराजे औरंगजेबासमोर नमले नाहीत. आणि यातच औरंजेबाचा पराभव सिध्द झाला. छत्रपती संभाजीराजे उत्तम साहित्यिक आणि संस्कृत भाषेचे उत्तम जाणकारही होते. त्यांनी वयाच्या चौदाव्या वर्षी बुधभूषण हा संस्कृत ग्रंथ लिहिला. संभाजीराजांचे सल्लागार. मित्र असलेले कवी कलश यांनी मरेपर्यंत आणि कठीण प्रवासातही संभाजी राजांची साथ सोडली काही.

Introduction :
Shivaji Sawant’s “Chhavaa” is a masterpiece of Marathi historical literature that brings to life the legendary story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This novel is a captivating blend of history and storytelling that explores the complexities of a valiant yet often misunderstood leader. Through meticulous research and compelling narration, Sawant portrays Sambhaji not only as a brave warrior but also as a sensitive human being.

Summary:
Chhavaa delves into the life of Sambhaji Maharaj, capturing his journey from childhood to his ultimate sacrifice for the Maratha Empire. The book narrates his struggles with family dynamics, his aspirations to uphold his father’s legacy, and his relentless fight against the Mughal Empire. It also sheds light on the emotional problems he faced due to misunderstandings and betrayals, both within his family and among his allies.

Plot Overview:
The novel begins with Sambhaji’s early life, highlighting his education, military training, and the expectations placed upon him as the heir to the Maratha throne. As the story progresses, readers witness his strained relationship with his stepmother, Soyarabai, and other court factions who conspire against him. Despite these challenges, Sambhaji’s courage and strategic brilliance shine through as he takes on the might of the Mughal Empire. The narrative builds towards the heart-wrenching climax, where Sambhaji is captured and brutally executed by Aurangzeb, cementing his legacy as a martyr for his people.

Themes:

1. Sacrifice and Patriotism: The novel emphasizes Sambhaji’s unwavering commitment to his empire and people, even at the cost of his life.
2. Family and Betrayal: It explores the complexities of familial relationships, especially the betrayal by those closest to him.
3. Leadership and Responsibility: Sambhaji’s journey reflects the challenges of leadership and the heavy burden of responsibility.
4. Courage and Resilience: The book celebrates Sambhaji’s indomitable spirit and his refusal to compromise his principles.

Setting:
The novel is set in 17th-century India, primarily in the Maratha territories and the Mughal court. Sawant vividly describes the forts, battlefields, and royal palaces, immersing readers in the historical and cultural milieu of the time. The attention to detail in depicting the geography and socio-political environment adds authenticity to the narrative.

Characters/Subject:

1. Sambhaji Maharaj: The protagonist, portrayed as a courageous yet misunderstood leader.
2. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj: Sambhaji’s father, whose legacy looms large over the story.
3. Soyarabai: Sambhaji’s stepmother, whose political ambitions create significant conflict.
4. Aurangzeb: The Mughal emperor and Sambhaji’s principal antagonist.
5. Yesubai: Sambhaji’s devoted wife, who stands by him through thick and thin

Character/Subject Development:
Sambhaji’s character evolves from a young prince burdened by expectations to a valiant warrior and martyr. His growth is marked by his resilience in the face of betrayal and his unwavering commitment to his people. Other characters, like Yesubai, add emotional depth to the story, while Aurangzeb’s portrayal underscores the stark contrast between tyranny and heroism.

Plot Structure/Practical Applications:
The novel’s linear narrative structure effectively captures the key events of Sambhaji’s life. The practical application lies in its ability to inspire readers with lessons on leadership, resilience, and the importance of staying true to one’s principles. It also provides valuable historical insights into the Maratha Empire and its struggles against Mughal domination.

Themes and Messages:
The primary message of Chhavaa is that true leadership requires courage, sacrifice, and an unyielding sense of duty. The novel also underscores the importance of unity and trust within a family and a kingdom. Sawant’s storytelling encourages readers to reflect on the nature of legacy and the cost of freedom.

Strengths & Weaknesses:
Strengths:

1. Rich historical detail that brings the era to life.
2. Complex, well-developed characters.
3. Emotional depth and a gripping narrative.

Weaknesses:

1. The detailed historical descriptions might feel overwhelming for some readers.
2. The focus on Sambhaji’s struggles can overshadow other significant aspects of his reign.

Personal Reflection:
Reading Chhavaa is an emotional journey. It made me admire Sambhaji Maharaj’s courage and resilience while also empathizing with his personal struggles. The novel deepened my understanding of Maratha history and left me inspired by the sacrifices made for India’s freedom. It also served as a reminder of the importance of integrity and the strength required to stand up for one’s beliefs.

Conclusion:
Chhavaa by Shivaji Sawant is a powerful tribute to one of history’s most remarkable leaders. It masterfully combines historical accuracy with compelling storytelling, making it a must-read for anyone interested in Indian history or tales of heroism and sacrifice. Despite its minor shortcomings, the novel’s emotional resonance and timeless themes make it an enduring work of literature.