Swarāj can mean, generally self-governance or self-rule. The earliest use of the term is attributed to Shivaji in the context of Hindavi Swarajya and the phrase lies at the heart of his legacy. However, scholars are divided on the authenticity of the specific document recording Shivaji's use of the phrase. Regardless of such controversies, the document was widely used to construct a cohesive narrative of Maharashtrian and Indian nationalism, framing Shivaji not just as a Maharashtrian hero, but as a visionary builder of a sovereign nation state.