Pune: The 395th birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was celebrated with great enthusiasm and reverence at Shivneri Fort, his birthplace. The grand event, held as per government traditions, was attended by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, and Minister of Cultural Affairs Ashish Shelar.

The celebration saw the presence of MLA Sharad Sonawane, former MLA Atul Benke, BJP leader Asha Buchke, Vighnahar Sugar Factory Chairman Satyashil Sherkar, and Maratha Seva Sangh officials Vijay Ghogare, Balasaheb Ghule, Adv. Rajendra Butte, and Ganesh Mahabare, along with a large number of Shiv devotees.

Traditional Cradle Ceremony and Tributes

A key highlight of the event was the traditional cradle ceremony, where a floral-adorned cradle was placed at Shivaji Maharaj’s birthplace, and a statue of young Shivaji was gently rocked while a traditional lullaby was sung. The song was performed by members of the Maratha Seva Sangh, including Rupali Mahabare, Sujata Bochare, Roshna Butte, Diksha Shinde, Surekha Jadhav, and Swati Ghode.

In addition, Kavita Jadhav, Smita Dhawale, Pramila Bhor, Poonam Mane, and Darshana Modhve recited ‘Jijau Vandana’, paying homage to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s mother, Jijabai. As part of the celebrations, 'Sunthwada' (a traditional ginger-based sweet) and Prasad were distributed to all attendees.

Ceremonial Processions and Salutes

The palanquin of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was ceremoniously worshipped and carried by the dignitaries, signifying their respect. The police band performed the national and Maharashtra anthems, followed by an honor guard firing ceremonial gun salutes in tribute.

At Shivkunj, floral tributes were offered to statues of young Shivaji and his mother, Jijabai. The entire fort resounded with chants of "Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Ki Jai," "Jai Jijau," "Jai Shivray," "Jai Bhavani," and "Jai Shivaji," creating an electrifying atmosphere. Young children, dressed as Shivaji Maharaj, added to the spirit of the celebrations.

Student Performances and Cultural Activities

A 30-student troupe from the Zilla Parishad Primary School in Muthalne, a remote tribal area, performed a Lezim dance, depicting important moments from Shivaji Maharaj’s life, earning admiration from the audience. The performance was organized by Principal Kamal Dumbare and teachers Laxman Joshi and Sangeet Hiray.