Why was Shivaji detained in Agra in 1666?

Introduction:
Shivaji Bhosle, popularly known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, was a Maratha warrior king who established the Maratha Empire in western India during the 17th century. In 1666, Shivaji was detained in Agra, the capital of the Mughal Empire under Emperor Aurangzeb.

Reason for detention:
The correct answer is option B: Shivaji was invited to meet Aurangzeb. Shivaji had been invited to Agra by Aurangzeb under the pretext of discussing matters of state and building a diplomatic relationship.

Background:
Shivaji had gained significant power and influence in the Deccan region, challenging the authority of the Mughal Empire. Aurangzeb, who was the Mughal Emperor at the time, saw Shivaji as a potential threat and wanted to assess his power and intentions firsthand.

Detention and treatment:
When Shivaji arrived in Agra, he was treated with disrespect and suspicion. Aurangzeb had planned to humiliate him and assert his dominance. Shivaji was not given a warm reception and was made to wait for an audience with the emperor for several days. Aurangzeb deliberately kept Shivaji waiting and refused to meet him personally.

Humiliation and house arrest:
Aurangzeb ordered Shivaji to remain in Agra and placed him under house arrest. Shivaji was confined to a small palace and was closely monitored by Mughal officials. This was done to undermine Shivaji's authority and break his spirit.

Release:
Shivaji, realizing that his detention was a political game, devised a plan to escape from Agra. With the help of his loyal associates, he managed to deceive the Mughal guards and escaped in 1666. He disguised himself as a servant and successfully made his way back to the Deccan region.

Conclusion:
Shivaji's detention in Agra in 1666 was a result of Aurangzeb's mistrust and desire to assert his authority over the Maratha king. Despite the initial humiliation and confinement, Shivaji managed to escape and continue his resistance against the Mughal Empire, ultimately establishing the Maratha Empire as a significant power in India.