352nd anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj celebrated with great pomp & show

Huge crowd gathered at Shivaji Vatika

Satyajit Shivnekar
Indore – Whenever there is talk of Swaraj, self-respect and patriotism on the land of India, the name of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is taken with reverence and pride. On the auspicious occasion of the 352nd anniversary of the historic coronation of this national leader, a grand and historic function was organized by Kshtriya Maratha Samaj and Sarva Marthi Bhashi Samaj in Indore . The program was organized at the prestigious historical site of Indore “Shivaji Vatika”, where devotees and people of the society started gathering since morning. The entire atmosphere resonated with the slogan of ‘Jai Bhavani, Jai Shivaji’. People participated enthusiastically in traditional clothes, with pictures of Shivaji Maharaj and saffron flags. Special enthusiasm was seen among women, youth and children.

Reestablishing history:

Program coordinator secretary Rajesh Nikam told in his address that on 6 June 1674, the coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was performed with Vedic mantras at Raigad Fort by the great Pandit Gangabhatt Takekar of Varanasi. With this coronation, the foundation of ‘Hindavi Swarajya’ was laid. He said, “Today is not just a date, but it symbolizes the beginning of the cultural and political renaissance of India.” Rajesh Nikam also told that on this day Maharaj established ‘Ashtapradhan Mandal’ for governance, which laid the foundation of administrative efficiency. Chhatrapati Shivaji’s governance model is still an example for administrative discipline and justice.

Worship and celebration with rituals:

The entire arrangements of the program were completed in a grand manner under the supervision of Manish Chaurat and Vinod Jawakar. The grand statue of Shivaji Maharaj was anointed, worshipped and rituals were performed with Vedic mantras. On this occasion, a special aarti was organized, in which the devotees lit lamps and gained virtue.

By evening, the atmosphere in Shivaji Vatika became Shiva-filled with colorful fireworks, Dhol-Tasha Pathak, Shivgarjana and traditional Lezim presentations. The people present there danced in the celebration.

Awakening of Shivacharitra:
The main associate of the program, Shri Amit Amgapurkar, while throwing light on various aspects of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s life, said that – “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj He was not only a warrior but also a farsighted, just, people-loving, pious and courageous ruler. His life gives both direction and vision to today’s young generation.” He told how he made the principles of safety of women, protection of religion and social harmony the core of his governance.

Dignified presence of dignitaries:
Many public representatives and social workers were also present in this function, prominent among them were former councilor Chandu Shinche, councilor Suresh Takalkar, councilor Sharad Pawar, Sudhir Kolhe (Vice President), Savita Jawakar, Vikas Charanshree, Ashok Gagre, Dr. Anand More, Bhupendra Ahsule, Subhash Sapare, Lokesh Saroshe, Mukesh Laggad, Ganpatrao Kadam, Pallavi Tai Garud, Shankarrao Jadhav and Ruchir Mosle.

All of them paid their tributes to Shivaji Maharaj from the stage and urged the young generation to adopt his ideals.

Active participation of society:
In this event, Kshatriya Maratha community, Brahmin, Jain, etc. of Indore participated. A large number of women, men, youth and children from various sections including Maheshwari, Agrawal, OBC, Scheduled Caste, Sarva Bhasha Samaj were present. This proved that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is the idol of the entire India.

At the end of the program, everyone took a pledge that they will imbibe the
thoughts of Shivaji Maharaj in their lives and will play an active role in building a society based on the principles of Swaraj.