Tanaji Malusare was Shivaji's childhood friend
and companion at arms. He was very brave and
daring. Shivaji proudly called him his Sivnha or
Lion. Tanaji had planned and fought many a battle
by the side of his leader. They were determined
to free their land from Mughal domination.
Tanaji lived in the small town of Umratha. One
morning, Umratha wore a festive look. Colourful
bunting fluttered in the streets. There was a
Mangal Kolas* at every door. Tanaji's son was
to be married that day. People went in and out
of his house, busy running errands.
Just then a messenger came galloping down the
street. "Look!" cried a man who had noticed him
in the distance. "What news can he be bringing?"
he asked Tanaji's servant who was near him. Before
the servant could reply, the rider came to a
stop in front of them. He leapt off his horse and
said, "Where is Tanaji? I must see him at once."
"In the house Sir," answered the servant. He
had recognised the rider. "I'll take you to him."
"Sire," the servant called out.
"Pots decorated with mango leaves and a coconut.
Tanaji and his wife were busy selecting and
packing clothes and ornaments for the bride and
the groom.
"Who is there?" he asked.
"Suryaji," replied the servant.
Tanaji put aside the jewel-case he was holding
and stepped forward. "Come in, Suryaji".
Suryaji entered and bowed to Tanaji and his
wife.
"Welcome, my friend. What brings you
here?" he asked. His wife, too, stopped inspecting
the sari she had in her hand.
"Ka/e* wants you at Raigarh immediately," replied
Suryaji.
Tanaji knew at once that it was something
serious. He turned swiftly to his wife and put his
hand affectionately on her shoulder. "My dear,"
he said, "you know I have to go. Postpone the
wedding. My first duty is to my leader and my
land. Come, smile and bid me farewell. Do not
wony. Suryaji and my men will be with me."
Tanaji's wife was stunned. She held back her
tears.
"Please wait," she said and went in to prepare
the ' t i l a k a n d 'arti'*** for the farewell.
"His Majesty.
s 3Vermillion mark on forehead.
co "moving a lighted lamp round a soldier before he goes to
battle.
