Yesaji Kank

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Yesaji Kank was a seventennth century warrior in India. He was childhood friend of Shivaji, the founder of the Maratha Empire. Kank was born in the home of "Sir Patil" of the Bhutonde village located in the foothills of Rajgad. His father, Dadoji Kank, had also served in the army of Shahaji.

Role in Shivaji's army

Kank was the head of the foot soldiers in Shivaji Maharaj's army, specializing in guerilla warfare. From childhood until Shivaji Maharaj's death, he remained loyal to the crown, and played a major role in the Battle of Pratapgad. After the death of Shivaji Maharaj he supported Sambhaji Maharaj (Shivaji Maharaj's Son) in various battle. Kank was also part of a council meeting known as Sadar, and fought a drunken elephant for Shivaji Maharj. Yesaji was one of Shivaji Maharaj's most trusted partners since childhood. He was claimed to be seven feet tall and well built.

Legacy

Yesaji Kank originated from Bhutonde, a village situated at the extreme foothold of Rajgad. Letters written by Shivaji Maharaj and sent to his Bhutonde address clearly indicate that he was from Bhutonde. He was known as the "Sardar Sarnobat" of an army of more than 1.35 million men (mavale). He fought a drunken elephant in front of Qutubshahi. He planned the journey of Shivaji Maharaj to and from Agra Darbar. He fought many battles for Sambhaji as well, one of which was the "Battle of Fonda" with the Portuguese, where he lost his son "Krushnaji Kank". Later Krushnaji Kank was carried and bought to his village Bhutonde for his last rites. His descendants live in the ancient wada in his village.

See also

  • Battle of Pratapgad
  • Nikam

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