INDIA. Mumbai: The vision of “Swarajya” (Self-rule) and “Susashan” (Good Governance) propounded by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj will be followed wholeheartedly in this “Amrit Kaal”, which describes the hope for a better future, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on the occasion of 350th anniversary of Shivaji’s coronation on Friday.
Shivaji Maharaj was crowned “Chhatrapati” of the independent Maratha kingdom on June 06, 1674. He had founded Hindavi Swarajya (self-rule of Hindu people, independence from foreign rule). The hill fort, located in Mahad in Raigad district, holds a major significance in the history of the Maratha empire.
As per the Hindu calendar, the anniversary of his coronation falls on June 02 this year. The anniversary of Shivaji’s coronation will be celebrated throughout the year in Maharashtra with a host of programs organised across the state.
In his message, the PM said that the great Maratha warrior valiantly fought against foreign invasion and revived self-confidence among people to achieve the “Swarajya”. He was the epitome of courage who strived to abolish slavery and inspired people to stand on their heels.
He laid the foundation of maritime might in the country and set up the forts, including “Jaldurgas” (sea forts). These impregnable forts baffle many architects in this age. The Indian Navy’s new Ensign, inspired by Shivaji Maharaj, has already wiped out the colonial past and the identity of slavery, Modi said.
The capital at Raigad in Maharashtra was the first capital of “Swarajya” in the country. Shivaji Maharaj was an able administrator, a pioneer of patriotism, and a protector of our culture. His work inspires not only Indians but people across the globe, Modi said.
On Friday, a glittering function was organised to mark the beginning of the anniversary of the coronation at Raigad. On occasion, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced that a “ShivShrusti”, a complex depicting the life and times of Shivaji, will be set up on a sprawling 45-acre land at the cost of Rs 50 crore near the fort.
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that the Union Government will be urged to set up a magnificent Shivaji national memorial in New Delhi.
Cultural Minister Sudhir Mungatiwar said that an “Abhishek” will be offered in 1108 rivers in Maharashtra as part of the anniversary of the coronation. Besides, the UK Government has already agreed to return Shivaji’s tiger claws and ceremonial sword, “Jagdamba”, which is in a museum in London.
Shivaji’s lineal descendant and BJP MP Udayn Raje Bhosale, MPs Sunil Tatkare and Dr Shrikant Shinde, and a host of leaders and a large number of people were present on the occasion.
As part of the coronation anniversary, various programs are being organised till June 07 at Gateway of India located in South Mumbai. An exhibition of weapons dating back to the Shivaji era has also been organised. Besides, the folk artists from Goa and Gujarat will exhibit their skills in a week-long program being organised by the Western Zone Cultural Centre.
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