Amit Shah honors Shivaji Maharaj at Maharashtra’s Raigad Fort

Union Home Minister Amit Shah paid tribute to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Raigad Fort in Maharashtra on the occasion of the Maratha king’s 345th death anniversary. The event held immense historical and cultural significance, as Raigad Fort was the capital of Shivaji Maharaj’s empire and a symbol of his legacy.

Amit Shah was accompanied by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, and other dignitaries, including BJP MP Udayanraje Bhosale and State Minister Shivendrasinh Bhosale, both descendants of Shivaji Maharaj. The Union Minister began his visit by offering floral tributes to Jijabai, Shivaji Maharaj’s mother, at Pachad near Raigad Fort. He then climbed the fort to pay homage at the samadhi (memorial) of Shivaji Maharaj.

During his address, Amit Shah praised Shivaji Maharaj’s courage, leadership, and vision of “swadharm and swarajya” (self-rule and self-faith), emphasizing how these ideals continue to inspire India’s aspirations. He highlighted Shivaji Maharaj’s strategic brilliance in uniting diverse sections of society and defeating the Mughal Empire, noting that Aurangzeb, who fought against the Marathas, died a defeated man in Maharashtra.

The visit also coincided with the centenary celebrations of the renovation of Shivaji Maharaj’s mausoleum. Thousands of people gathered at the fort to honor the Maratha king’s legacy, and the event was marked by cultural programs and speeches celebrating Shivaji Maharaj’s contributions to Indian history.

Amit Shah’s visit was not only a tribute to Shivaji Maharaj but also a reflection of the government’s efforts to preserve and promote India’s historical heritage. The event underscored the enduring relevance of Shivaji Maharaj’s ideals in contemporary times.