Celebrations underway in Nagpur to honour Shivaji Maharaj on 353rd Shivarajyabhishek Divas
Nagpur, June 27
Celebrations marking the 353rd anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's coronation, observed according to the Hindu calendar as Shivrajyabhishek Din, were held in Nagpur on Saturday.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's coronation took place at Raigad Fort in 1674 on Jyeshtha Shukla Trayodashi. While the event is observed every year on June 6 as per the Gregorian calendar, this year's Tithi-based celebration fell on June 27.
Devotees and followers paid tribute to the Maratha warrior king, remembering his contribution to the establishment of Hindavi Swarajya and his legacy of people-centric governance.
Meanwhile, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde paid homage to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and extended greetings on the occasion.
"On Shivrajyabhishek Din (as per Tithi), my respectful salutations to the idol of undivided Maharashtra, Shrimant Yogi Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Heartiest wishes to all Shiv-premis on the auspicious occasion of Shivrajyabhishek Din," Shinde posted on X.
Maharashtra BJP president Ravindra Chavan also paid tribute to the Maratha king and recalled the significance of the historic coronation ceremony.
"On this auspicious Shuddha Trayodashi, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj ascended the throne at Raigad Fort, marking the historic ceremony of Shivrajyabhishek. Through Hindavi Swarajya, Shiv Chhatrapati established an ideal of people-centric governance that continues to inspire the world. Let us resolve to carry forward Shivray's vision and legacy," Chavan said in a post on X.
On June 6, 1674, he ascended to the throne in a grand ceremony as 'Chhatrapati or the "supreme sovereign." In the Hindu calendar, his coronation ceremony is held on the 13th day (Trayodashi) of the first fortnight of the month of Jyeshtha in the year 1596.
The coronation of any king had to be approved by the Mughal Emperor, but Shivaji challenged the Mughal authority. In this way, Shivaji was formally declared the independent King of the Maratha Empire.
The coronation is also known as the 'Shivrajyabhishek Sohala'.During the Battle of Purandhar, fought between the ought between the Mughal Empire and the Marathas in 1665, he defeated the army led by Fattekhan.
In the Battle of Pratapgad, the forces of Shivaji emerged victorious over those of the Bijapur Sultanate.
Under him, the Marathas emerged as a formidable national force, challenging the hegemony of the mighty Mughal Empire in the Deccan region.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I'm glad they're following the traditional Hindu calendar. Shivaji Maharaj's coronation wasn't just a ceremony—it was a message to the world that Indians don't need Mughal approval to have a rightful king. The Raigad Fort must have been majestic that day! 🚩
Interesting read. While I respect the legacy, I wish the article mentioned more about his governance model—like the Ashta Pradhan council and his policies that empowered local communities. That's what truly made him a great ruler, not just the battles. Still, good to see people remembering him.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's vision of Hindavi Swarajya is more relevant than ever today. He stood against oppression and established a kingdom based on justice and inclusivity. The fact that we're celebrating 353 years later speaks volumes. Proud to be from Maharashtra! 🇮🇳
Great coverage. But why do politicians always make it about themselves? Eknath Shinde and Ravindra Chavan posting greetings is fine, but let's not forget the common people who actually keep his legacy alive. The real celebrations happen in villages and schools, not just in political X posts. 😐
The Battle of Pratapgad is my favourite part of his history—how he defeated Afzal Khan with sheer strategy and courage. It reminds us that even against bigger powers, intelligence and bravery can win the day. Happy Shivrajyabhishek Divas to all! 🙏
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.