Leaders and prominent figures across the country on Thursday paid glowing tributes to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on his 396th birth anniversary, hailing the Maratha warrior-king as the eternal champion of ‘Swarajya’ whose courage and vision continue to define India’s civilisational spirit.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation in homage, describing Shivaji Maharaj as a “visionary leader, exceptional administrator, strategic thinker, and champion of Swarajya.”
“On the Jayanti of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, we bow in reverence to the visionary leader, exceptional administrator, strategic thinker, and champion of Swarajya. May his courage inspire us, his governance guide us, and his spirit of justice and self-respect strengthen our society,” the Prime Minister posted on X.
Modi emphasised that Shivaji Maharaj always placed the welfare of every single person above everything else and dedicated himself completely to their protection. “This commitment is why his life remains a beacon for India across generations,” he added.
Born in 1630, Shivaji Maharaj founded the Maratha kingdom in the 17th century and mounted a formidable challenge to the Mughal Empire. His model of governance rested on administrative innovation, military acumen and religious tolerance, integrating diverse communities under a unifying vision of self-rule.
In Maharashtra, Governor Acharya Dewrat offered floral tributes at Lok Bhavan, while Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, along with his deputies Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Pawar, joined commemorations at Shivneri Fort in Pune, the birthplace of the legendary king.
Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi described Shivaji Maharaj as an embodiment of valour. “Shivaji Maharaj is a unique example of bravery, foresight and just leadership. His philosophy of life and courage continues to inspire us even today to fight against injustice,” he said.
NCP (SP) president Sharad Pawar said Shivaji Maharaj ignited a spark of self-respect in the hearts of the common man and ensured that the culture of honouring women’s power remained a guiding light.
Maharashtra Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal also paid homage at Shivaji Park in Mumbai, calling the day an occasion to renew commitment to the warrior-king’s vision and principles.
Follow us
