Pune: The historic Fort Shivneri, the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, is set to witness grand celebrations on the occasion of Shiv Jayanti on Wednesday, February 19. The event will be marked by an official ceremony attended by Maharashtra Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, and several ministers.

The festivities will commence in the morning with the official Mahapuja of Goddess Shivai at the fort, conducted in the presence of MLA Sharad Sonawane and District Collector Jitendra Dudi.

The birth anniversary celebrations of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj will include traditional rituals such as the cradle ceremony, an official salute, and performances by a Lezim dance troupe. Adventure sports demonstrations will also be a part of the event. Following this, a tribute ceremony will take place, during which greetings and best wishes will be extended to devotees and attendees.

In the afternoon, the Shankarrao Butte Patil Ground will host traditional and adventure sports competitions. Later in the evening, a grand Aarti dedicated to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj will be performed at the same venue, with the presence of Tourism Minister Shambhuraj Desai. Adding to the celebrations, a spectacular procession will pass through Junnar city, led by Cultural Minister Ashish Shelar.

A historical theatrical performance on the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, organized by Shivsahyadri, will add a cultural touch to the occasion. Wrestling competitions will also be held, with the winner being awarded a silver mace and the prestigious title of ‘Shivneri Kesari.’

As part of the celebrations, a special program titled ‘Gaurav Maharashtra Cha Marathmola’ will take place. A grand midnight Aarti and fire show will be held at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Chowk on the night of February 18, marking the beginning of the festivities.

Shivneri Bhushan Award to Honor Four Distinguished Individuals

During the Shiv Jayanti celebrations, the prestigious ‘Shivneri Bhushan Award’ will be presented to four distinguished individuals for their outstanding contributions to society.

• Dr. Amol Dumbare will receive the award for his dedicated service as a cancer surgeon at Tata Cancer Hospital, Ruby Hospital in Pune, and Alephata Cancer Hospital.

• Environmental activist Jalindar Korde, who has planted and nurtured over 8,000 trees, will also be recognized for his commendable work in afforestation. His efforts have previously been acknowledged by the state government.

• Social worker Rajabhau Paymode, known for his financial aid to rural patients seeking treatment in Pune, as well as providing free meals and medicines to the underprivileged, will also be conferred with the prestigious award.

• Former Junnar MLA Balasaheb Dangat will be honored for his significant efforts in the development of the taluka during his tenure from 1994 to 2004.