Special Correspondent
Pune: The “Jay Shivaji – Jay Bharat” foot march was inaugurated in Pune in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya. On this occasion, Chief Minister Fadnavis addressed the gathering and extended his wishes for the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
During the event, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is celebrated not only in India but also in 20 countries around the world. He mentioned that when many great rulers in India were working alongside the Mughals, accepting their supremacy, Rajmata Jijabai instilled in Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj the desire to make the Marathi land and Hindustan independent.
Fadnavis further said that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj united people from various castes and inspired them to fight for God, country, religion, and the welfare of the people, leading to the defeat of the Mughal forces by just 5,000 Marathas, despite the Mughals bringing an army of lakhs.
The 12 forts of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj will soon become a world heritage center. As a ruler, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s systems for tax collection, farmer welfare, water and forest conservation, navy, coastal management have all left lasting lessons. His vision for the welfare, respect, and dignity of common people and women continues to guide us. Following his ideals, we are working towards creating a strong and powerful India. The “Jay Shivaji – Jay Bharat” foot march reflects this spirit, said Fadnavis.
The event was also attended by Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol, Union Minister Rupa Khadse, MP Mehta Kulkarni, Ministers Chandrakant Patil, Ashish Shelar, Dattamama Bharne, and other dignitaries.