Gajanan Bhaskar Mehendale (1947–2025) was one of India’s most respected historians, best known for his rigorous research on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Maratha history. With deep linguistic expertise and a lifelong commitment to original sources, he established himself as an authority in a field often clouded by legend and myth.
Born on 19 December 1947, Mehendale pursued a Master’s degree in Defence Studies from Savitribai Phule Pune University. From his early years, he displayed a fascination for history and a unique ability to engage with historical records across multiple languages.
Scholar with a Linguist’s Edge
Unlike many historians who relied on translated works, Mehendale immersed himself in Persian, Modi script, Marathi, English, French, and German. This rare command of languages allowed him to study farmans, letters, and administrative documents directly, providing insights that others often overlooked. He often emphasized that Persian records, in particular, are crucial to understanding Mughal and Maratha history.
Mehendale’s scholarly journey extended far beyond the classroom. In 1971, he even worked as a war correspondent during the Bangladesh Liberation War, reflecting his versatile interests and commitment to truth.
He was also closely associated with research institutions such as the Bharat Itihas Sanshodhak Mandal and the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute in Pune, contributing significantly to archival studies and debates on Maratha history.
Over the decades, Mehendale authored several acclaimed books that reshaped how historians and the public viewed Maratha history. Some of his most notable works include:
Shivaji: His Life & Times – A landmark English study on Shivaji Maharaj.
Shri Raja Shivchhatrapati (Marathi) – A widely read reference work.
Marathyanche Armar – A detailed exploration of the Maratha navy.
Tipu as He Really Was – A re-evaluation of Tipu Sultan’s legacy.
Adilshahi Farmane – A study of royal edicts from the Adilshahi court.
At the time of his passing, he was reportedly working on research related to Islam and Aurangzeb, showing his commitment to broadening the scope of medieval Indian history.
Mehendale stood out for his methodical approach—he believed that historical truth lies in original records, not in embellished narratives. His writings questioned long-held assumptions and encouraged future historians to return to primary sources.
He remained unmarried throughout his life, dedicating himself fully to scholarship and historical research. His intellectual honesty, attention to detail, and commitment to authentic history have left a lasting legacy in Indian historiography.
On 17 September 2025, Gajanan Bhaskar Mehendale passed away in Pune at the age of 77. His death marked the loss of a rare historian who combined passion, discipline, and linguistic mastery in the study of India’s past.
Gajanan Bhaskar Mehendale’s life was a testament to the power of scholarship grounded in truth. His works on Shivaji and Maratha history continue to guide students, researchers, and history enthusiasts. In a time when myths often overshadow facts, Mehendale’s insistence on primary sources remains his greatest gift to Indian historiography.
