Hindu Samrajya Din Celebrated

 

June 17, 2025 – On the occasion of the 351st coronation anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Hindu Samrajya Din was celebrated with enthusiasm at the Maharshi Karve Stree Shikshan Samstha. The event featured a special lecture by Shri Parag Thakur, President of the Maharashtra State Dhol-Tasha Federation and a govering body member of Shikshan Prasarak Mandali, at the Cummins College campus. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries including Vice-Chairperson Mrs. Vidya Kulkarni, Board Member CA Abhay Kulkarni, Secretary Dr. P.V.S. Shastri, and Deputy Secretary Mrs. Kanchan Satpute.

 

Following the worship of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's portrait, students from Vision English Medium School (Narhe) presented the Ashramgeet. In her introductory speech, Mrs. Archana Deshmukh, a professor at Siddhivinayak College, elaborated on the significance of celebrating Shivrajyabhishek Din within an educational institution. During the event, an engineering student Kum. Avani Kulkarni performed a captivating Bharatnatyam dance to the song "He Hindu Nrisinha Prabho Shivaji Raja" composed by Veer Savarkar.

 

 

Mrs. Sharmila Joshi introduced the chief speaker, Shri Parag Thakur, and Mrs. Vidya Kulkarni formally welcomed him with a book gift. Prior to the lecture, students from Vision School presented a group rendition of the aarti of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, creating an inspiring atmosphere.

 

In his approximately one-hour speech, Shri Parag Thakur eloquently discussed various aspects of Shivacharitra (the life of Shivaji Maharaj). He critically examined the distorted history written by opportunistic politicians and self-proclaimed scholars. He also shared personal experiences from his role in the historical play "Janta Raja," directed by Shivshahir Babasaheb Purandare. He emphasized that our history is not one of slavery but of valour and heroism, aspects that were never taught to us.

 

He highlighted the pivotal role of Jijamata in shaping Shivaji Maharaj's character, even in adverse circumstances. He credited her inspiration for establishing an independent Hindu state, which led to Shivaji Maharaj's remarkable feats. He discussed Shivaji Maharaj's strategic use of guerrilla warfare against formidable enemies like Afzal Khan, Shaista Khan, and Aurangzeb, and his innovative tactics in warfare. Alongside his military prowess, he was known for efficient administration, fiscal prudence, and deep concern for his subjects.

 

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj never tolerated the dishonour of women and imposed severe punishments on those who insulted women, instilling fear in potential offenders. He treated his companions with sincere affection, leading them to face even death with him. He never hesitated to deceive enemies but protected his friends and their families with utmost care. These qualities remain exemplary even today. Therefore, after Lord Ram and Lord Krishna, the name we most remember is that of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

 

The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Kumar Diwakar, and the event was moderated by Mrs. Maitrayee Kulkarni, a teacher at Arun Vidya Mandir. The ceremony ended with the rendition of "Shivavandana" by Shri Aniket Paranjape, enveloping the gathering in a deeply emotional atmosphere.