Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti is a festival that commemorates the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire and one of the greatest warriors in Indian history. He was born on the 19th day of the Hindu month of Magha, which usually falls in February or March, in the year 1630 at Shivneri Fort. He is revered as a national hero and a symbol of courage, freedom, and self-rule by millions of people, especially in Maharashtra, where he established his kingdom.
Nagpur, the second capital of Maharashtra and the winter capital of India, is a city that has a rich cultural heritage and a strong connection with Shivaji Maharaj. The city celebrates Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti with great enthusiasm and pride, showcasing its vibrant and diverse culture. The celebration in Nagpur involves various activities such as processions, rallies, plays, exhibitions, competitions, and cultural events that honor the life and achievements of the Maratha king.
One of the main attractions of the Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti celebrations in Nagpur is the performance of the Dhol-Tasha pathak, a group of drummers who play the traditional percussion instruments of dhol and Tasha.
Another important aspect of the Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti celebrations in Nagpur is the creation of rangoli, a form of art that involves making colorful patterns on the floor using various materials such as rice, flour, sand, or flowers.
A third element of the Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti celebrations in Nagpur is the singing of bhajan, a form of devotional music that praises and worships Shivaji Maharaj as a divine figure. The bhajan singers use various instruments such as harmonium, tabla, cymbals, and bells to accompany their vocals, creating a melodious and soothing sound.
Some of the places that celebrate Shivjaynti in Nagpur are:
• Shivtirth: This is a historic place in Mahal, where a statue of Shivaji Maharaj was installed by his son Sambhaji Maharaj in 1682. The place hosts a grand ceremony and a flag hoisting event on Shivjanti, attended by thousands of devotees and dignitaries.
• Deekshabhoomi: This is a sacred place for the followers of Buddhism, where Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar embraced Buddhism along with his followers in 1956. The place also has a statue of Shivaji Maharaj, which is decorated and worshipped on Shivjanti.
• Vishwa Shanti Sarovar: This is a meditation center run by the Brahma Kumaris, a spiritual organization. The center organizes a special program on Shivjaynti, where they sing bhajans and offer prayers to Shivaji Maharaj. They also display a rangoli of Shivaji Maharaj's fort and flag at the entrance of the center.
• Sitabuldi: In the middle of the city, the busy roads of Sitabuldi become a colorful show of music and dance when local drum groups come to the front. The drums make loud and fast sounds, and the metal plates make a big noise. The sounds fill the air, and many people come to have fun with them. From people who know how to play and dance well, to people who just watch and enjoy, everyone feels happy and excited by the show. The show moves through the small streets, and makes everyone feel good and friendly.
• Cozmoderm: This is a dermatology clinic that offers various skin and hair care treatments. The clinic celebrates Shivjaynti by creating a rangoli of Shivaji Maharaj's portrait and sword at the reception area.
These are some of the places that celebrate Shivjaynti in Nagpur with respect and admiration for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the great Maratha warrior king. I hope this information is helpful for you. |