Shivaji was the greatest Hindu king that India had produced within the last thousand years; one who was the very incarnation of Shiva, about whom prophecies were given out long before he was born; his advent was eagerly expected by all the great souls & saints of Maharashtra .Shivaji the Great Maratha King is the icon of freedom fighters in Indian Independence struggle, He is remembered as a just and wise king & his rule is called one of the six golden ages in Indian history. Shivaji Maharaj's rule was heroic, exemplary & inspiring. He is considered the founder of the modern Maratha nation; his policies were instrumental in forging a distinct Maharashtrian identity & infusing it with strong martial & moral traditions.
He united the Maratha chiefs from Maval, Konkan & Desh regions for a higher purpose - the promotion of Maharashtra Dharma - carved out a small kingdom by defeating the alien powers. He stabilised the state with effective civil & military administration & adopted a policy of religious tolerance to accommodate all religions and sects in his state.
Today as we travel across Maharashtra from east to west or traipse from north to south it is possible to find the Shivaji Jayanti festival going on in every corner of the State. The meaning of the festival varies from community to community, from street to street, even from person to person. Celebrations to mark Shivaji Jayanti are observed on a majestic scale in various parts of Mumbai city as well, amidst much pomp & enthusiasm!
Garlanded Statue of the Maratha King at Juhu beach,Dadar & across the metropolitan have been illuminated with lights & floral decorations surronded by MNS & SHIV SENA party flags .Throngs of tourists & local spectators in hordes clicking pictures of the occasion!
Shivaji’s contribution to history is the of creation of Maratha Empire. As the whole nation celebrates his birthday, in Maharashtra, the celebrations reach their pinnacle. Processions are being taken out, stories from Shivaji’s life are told, skits are performed & songs of his bravery are sung............All I can say as with pride is"HAIL SHIVAJI MAHARAJ!"
