Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2025: Know the history, significance, and celebrations

छत्रपती शिवाजी महाराज यांच्या जयंतीनिमित्त मी त्यांना अभिवादन करतो.

त्यांच्या पराक्रमाने आणि दूरदर्शी नेतृत्वाने स्वराज्याची पायाभरणी केली, ज्यामुळे अनेक पिढ्यांना धैर्य आणि न्यायाची मूल्ये जपण्याची प्रेरणा मिळाली. ते आपल्याला एक बलशाली, आत्मनिर्भर आणि समृद्ध भारत घडवण्यासाठी… pic.twitter.com/zu0vLviiPf

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 19, 2025

Check: Bank Holidays 2025: Are banks open or closed today on February 19?

This year will mark Shivaji’s 395th birth anniversary; here’s all you need to know about the great Maratha warrior king and the significance behind this observance.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2025: History, Significance, and Celebrations

Born as Shivaji Bhosale (1630-1680 CE), Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was a prominent warrior king and founder of the Maratha Empire, widely admired for his progressive leadership, military acumen, and fight for Swarajya (self-rule).

Shivaji’s efforts to free India from foreign rule and emphasis on good governance have earned him the standing of a national hero.

To honour his principles and contributions, the celebration of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti began in 1870 after discovering his tomb at Raigad Fort, which was further elaborated by freedom fighter Bal Gangadhar Tilak, to bring Shivaji Maharaj’s contributions to public consciousness during India’s struggle for independence.

Must Read: Why Chhatrapati Shivaji is called the ‘Father of the Indian Navy’

The modern-day celebrations are observed by large processions, like the Shiv Jayanti Yatra, held in cities across Maharashtra, where devotees and admirers participate and chant slogans like Jai Bhavani and Jai Shivaji.