Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2023 : History, date and significance of the day

Shiv Jayanti also known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti will be observed on February 19, 2023. The day is celebrated with great zeal and fervour, especially in Maharashtra.


Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti marks the birth anniversary of the great Maratha emperor Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The main aim of the day is to honour the great warrior's role in restoring the Maratha Empire and to celebrate his vast legacy.



The celebration of Shiv Jayanti was set by Jyotirao Govindrao Phule, also known as Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, in 1870, and since then, people have been celebrating the day with great zeal. Shivaji Maharaj was born in 1630 in Pune’s Shivneri Fort. The great warrior has earned massive respect not only in Maharashtra but across India because of his rich cultural legacy, forward-thinking and efforts to set India free from foreign invaders.


This year will mark the 393rd birth anniversary of the great leader. Shivaji Maharaj not only constructed a well-structured administrative organisation but also made a liberal civil rule for people living in the area. Following Jyotirao Phule, the practice of observing the day, the celebrations were carried on by the great liberation fighter Bal Gangadhar Tilak. The freedom fighter was also given the credit for drawing attention to the Maratha King's contributions to the public during the freedom struggle.


Some states in India celebrate the festival of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti as a public holiday. People organise several events to celebrate the occasion. Also on this day, grand processions are taken out in several places in Maharashtra. Meanwhile, for the first time, this year, Shivaji Jayanti will be commemorated in Agra's Diwan-i-Am.

FAQ

Q1. When will Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti be observed this year?
A1. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti will be observed this year on February 19.


Q2. Who celebrated the Shiv Jayanti for the first time, and when?
A2. The celebration of Shiv Jayanti was set by Jyotirao Govindrao Phule, also known as Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, in 1870.