Wed Feb 19 03:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Pune Celebrates Grand 13th Annual Shivaji Jayanti Procession
**Pune, Maharashtra:** A spectacular Shivaji Jayanti procession, organized by the Shiva Jayanti Mahotsav Samiti Pune, captivated the city today. This year marked the 13th anniversary of the event, which commenced with a floral tribute to Jijamata’s statue at Lal Mahal by descendants of Maratha sardars. The procession featured a striking “Jijau Maansaheb Shahaji Maharaj Shivjyot” chariot, followed by 96 impressive tableaux representing Maratha warriors, sardars, and brave mothers. The vibrant spectacle also included a 51-member Ranaragini women’s martial arts troupe, captivating dhol-tasha performances, and the melodious sounds of traditional instruments like sanais and chaughdas. Thousands of people dressed in traditional attire participated, creating a breathtaking visual display.
The event was inaugurated by prominent dignitaries including MP Chhatrapati Udayanraje Bhosale, Union Minister of State for Cooperation and Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol, Sanjivraje Naik Nimbalkar, and Amit Gaikwad, the Samiti’s founder president.
Chhatrapati Udayanraje Bhosale lauded Shivaji Maharaj as a visionary whose unifying ideology remains relevant today. He highlighted the diverse participation in Pune’s Shivaji Jayanti celebrations, emphasizing the remembrance of the Maratha sardars and mavals who fought alongside the great king.
The procession also featured commentary on Maharashtra’s current political climate. Lokasatta editor Girish Kuber noted internal discord within the ruling Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition, urging the three constituent parties to collaborate for the state’s development, especially in the context of the upcoming budget.
First Piper 