Maynak Bhandari

Maynak Bhandari, born Mayaji Bhatkar, was one of the first Subhedar or Admiral of the Maratha Navy under Shivaji, and helped in both building the Maratha Navy and safeguarding the coastline of the emerging Maratha Empire.

Along with Daria Sarang and Daulat Khan, other admirals who served Shivaji, Bhandari commanded a navy of 200 ships.

Under his leadership, Maratha navy won the campaign of Khanderi fort (1679-80)near Alibag against the East India Company and Siddis of Janjira State.

He also undertook an unsuccessful assault on the Underi fort on 18th Aug 1680.

He participated in the Siege of Janjira fort in 1682, along with other Admirals, Govind Kanho, & Sar-Subhedar (Grand Admiral) Govindrao Jadhav.

A memorial has been built to Ram Nayak Bhandari at Bhatye Village, close to Ratnagiri town.