Belagavi: Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Sunday unveiled a towering statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Athani, describing it as a living tribute to India’s timeless values of courage, self-respect and Swaraj.
Describing Belagavi as a land steeped in history, Scindia remarked that the immortal saga of valour, self-respect and indomitable courage associated with Shivaji Maharaj continues to resonate across the region even centuries later.
He said the powerful war cry of “Jai Bhavani, Jai Shivaji” still ignites fearlessness, national pride and a sense of duty among Indians. According to the Minister, these ideals are not relics of the past but guiding principles for modern India.
The programme was attended by several prominent religious leaders, public representatives and dignitaries, including Manjunath Bharati Swamiji, Sambhaji Bhide Guruji, Karnataka Ministers Santosh Lad and Satish Jarkiholi, former Deputy Chief Minister Laxman Savadi, and Kolhapur MP Shrimant Shahu Chhatrapati Maharaj.
Architect of Hindavi Swaraj
Recalling the extraordinary life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Scindia highlighted that the Maratha ruler pledged himself to the cause of Hindavi Swaraj at the young age of 15. Through exceptional courage, sharp military strategy and visionary leadership, Shivaji Maharaj challenged powerful invaders and upheld India’s civilisational self-respect.
He emphasised that Shivaji Maharaj’s governance was rooted in justice, respect for women, religious harmony and an unshakeable commitment to national duty. These values, Scindia said, remain deeply relevant in contemporary times.
According to historians, the Athani–Belagavi region held strategic importance during Shivaji Maharaj’s southern campaigns, safeguarding critical routes connecting the Deccan, Konkan and Goa. The Minister said unveiling the statue on this historic soil symbolically bridges the past with the present.
Inspiration for a Viksit Bharat
Linking Shivaji Maharaj’s ideals with present-day governance, Scindia said modern India is marching ahead inspired by the same principles of self-reliance, courage and national pride.
He noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the vision of a Viksit Bharat is being shaped on the foundation of cultural confidence and national duty — values that Shivaji Maharaj exemplified centuries ago.
“National interest is paramount, courage never fades, and the spirit of Swaraj never grows old,” Scindia said, adding that the statue will continue to inspire generations to uphold these ideals.
Part of a Broader Public Outreach
The unveiling ceremony marked the culmination of Scindia’s two-day visit to Maharashtra and Karnataka. Earlier, he released a commemorative postage stamp marking 150 years of the Bombay Gymkhana in Kolhapur.
He also participated in a Gramin Dak Sevak Sammelan, where he interacted with postal workers and discussed grassroots service delivery and institutional strengthening.