The Life and Works of Vishwanath Kashinath Rajwade

Vishwanath Kashinath Rajwade (12 July 1863 – 31 December 1926), popularly known as Itihasacharya Rajwade, was a historian, scholar, writer, commentator, and orator from Maharashtra, India. He composed a famous History Grant called ‘History of Indian Marriage Institutions’ (Marathi). He was also a Sanskrit linguist, as evidenced by the works ‘Rajwade Metallurgical’ and ‘Unlighted Sanskrit language’.

Early Life And Education

Vishwanath Kashinath Rajwade, a distinguished Indian historian, was born on 12th July 1863 in Varsai, located in the Raigad district of the Bombay Presidency. He hailed from a Chitpavan Brahmin family with a notable lineage; his grandfather served as the Killedar (fort keeper) of the fort Lohagad in Pune province. Tragedy struck early in Rajwade’s life when he lost his father during childhood. Subsequently, he was raised by his uncle in Vadgaon near Pune. His educational journey began with matriculation in January 1882, followed by a graduation from the prestigious Deccan College in Pune in 1890. During his time at Deccan College, Rajwade was profoundly influenced by the eminent historian Ramkrishna Gopal Bhandarkar, who was a professor there. This period marked the beginning of Rajwade’s lifelong dedication to the study and documentation of Indian history, particularly the Maratha Empire.

Career And Achievements

Vishwanath Kashinath Rajwade academic journey began at Deccan College, Pune, where he was greatly influenced by the eminent historian Ramkrishna Gopal Bhandarkar. Rajwade’s relentless pursuit of historical documents led him to traverse hundreds of villages across India, amassing a vast collection of family records and manuscripts that shed new light on Maratha history. In 1910, he established the Bharat Itihas Sanshodhak Mandal, a premier research institute in Pune, which became a repository for his life’s work and a center for historical research. His notable works include ‘Marathyanchya Itihasachi Sadhane’ (Sources of the History of Marathas), which remains a seminal contribution to Indian historiography. Rajwade’s dedication to history was recognized posthumously with the creation of the Vishwanath Kashinath Rajwade Award by the Indian History Congress, honoring individuals for their lifetime service to Indian history. His legacy continues to inspire historians and researchers, underscoring the importance of primary sources in the study of history. Rajwade’s life was a testament to the power of scholarly rigor and the enduring impact of dedicated research on the understanding of a nation’s past. His work not only enriched Maratha history but also set a benchmark for historical research in India.

Notable Events And Milestones

Vishwanath Kashinath Rajwade early life was influenced by the loss of his father and the guidance of his uncle, which led him to matriculate in January 1882 and later graduate from Deccan College, Pune, in 1890. During his college years, he was deeply influenced by the eminent historian Ramkrishna Gopal Bhandarkar and inspired by the works of Vishnushastri Krushnashastri Chiplunkar, Parshuram Tatya Godbole, and Sane Kavyeitihas Sangrahakar. Rajwade’s dedication to history was evident when he remained single after the early death of his wife, dedicating his life to historical research. He founded the Bharat Itihas Sanshodhak Mandal in Pune in 1910, which became a repository for the vast collection of historical documents he gathered throughout his life. His pioneering approach involved visiting hundreds of villages across India to collect thousands of family records and other historical documents, which laid the foundation for a more authentic and nuanced understanding of the Maratha Empire and Indian history.

His contributions extended beyond research; he started the Marathi magazine ‘Bhashantar’ in 1895, translating works of Western and Indian scholars to Marathi readers, thus making knowledge more accessible. Rajwade’s work challenged the colonial narrative of Indian history, emphasizing the importance of original sources. His efforts culminated in the publication of ‘Marathyanchya Itihasachi Sadhane,’ a seminal work in Marathi historiography. Rajwade’s impact on history is immeasurable. He not only contributed to the academic field but also influenced subsequent generations of historians, including Datto Vaman Potdar, Vasudeo Sitaram Bendrey, and G. H. Khare. His methodical and rigorous approach to historical research set new standards in the field. The Indian History Congress recognized his contributions by instituting the Vishwanath Kashinath Rajwade Award for lifelong service to Indian history. He died on 31 December 1926, in India.

Awards And Honors

Vishwanath Kashinath Rajwade, a distinguished Indian historian, is celebrated for his pioneering work on the history of the Maratha Empire.
He founded the Bharat Itihas Sanshodhak Mandal, a research institute in Pune in 1910, which became a significant center for historical research.
His relentless pursuit of historical documents and personal sacrifices earned him the epithet ‘Itihasacharya’ (Sage of History).
The Indian History Congress honored his contributions to Indian history by instituting the Vishwanath Kashinath Rajwade Award, which is given for lifelong service and contribution to the field of Indian history.
His legacy continues to inspire historians and researchers, emphasizing the importance of original sources for the study of history.

Additional Resources

Books:

– “Marathyanchya Itihasachi Sadhane” (Sources of the History of Marathas) – A comprehensive 22-volume work by Rajwade himself.

– “Rajwade Lekhsangraha” (Collection of essays) – A three-volume collection of Rajwade’s essays.

Documentaries and Films:

– While there may not be mainstream documentaries, local history groups or educational institutions in Maharashtra might have produced short films or documentaries on Rajwade’s work.

Museums and Archives:

– Bharat Itihas Sanshodhak Mandal, Pune: A research institute founded by Rajwade, which houses many historical documents and his works.

– Rajwade Sanshodhak Mandal, Dhule: An institute established after his death, preserving his later collections.

Online Resources:

– Articles and biographies detailing Rajwade’s life and work can be found on various educational and history-focused websites.

Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.