Sambhaji

After Chhatrapati Shivaji, his son Sambhaji succeeded to the throne in 1680. He was an incapable and unworthy successor of his father. He spent most of his time in the company of concubines along with his trusted friend Kavi Kulash. When Aurangzeb invaded Bijapur and Golkonda in 1686 and 1687, he did nothing to utilize the opportunity to capture the Mughal courts around the kingdom. After conquering the Deccan Kingdoms, Aurangzeb directed his army to destroy the Maratha power. Instead of facing the enemies on the war front, Sambhaji moved to Sangameshwar to spend time in merry making.

The Mughal general made a surprise attack and took him prisoner. Aurangzeb humiliated Sambhaji by parading him in the streets as a buffoon. Later he was subjected to cruel torture. The inhuman treatment given to Sambhaji roused the feelings of the Marathas and induced them to fight against the Mughals.