Shivaji represents true ‘rashtravad’, an inspiration for the country and the world: Amit Shah

“The emotions I am experiencing standing at this sacred place where the golden throne of Shivaji Maharaj once stood is overwhelming…it cannot be put in words. This sacred place remains an eternal source of inspiration,” said Shah.

“Shivaji Maharaj dedicated his entire life to establishing self-rule and faith. He remains an inspiration for the country and the world. I bow to Rajmata Jijau, who not only gave birth to Shivaji but also instilled in him the vision of self-rule,” said the Union Home Minister.

Talking about the valour of the Maratha king, Shah said, “The people subjected to invasions had lost self-confidence. They had become slaves. A 12-year-old Shivaji pledged and displayed courage and faith to rise and fight the invaders, gradually paving the way for freedom through swarajya. I have studied many heroic figures, but have never found such courage in any leader.”

“There were formidable challenges before Shivaji Maharaj. He neither had resources nor a huge army. Despite all odds, he fought the great Mughal emperor through sheer will power. He waged relentless battles and succeeded in defeating Adilshahi and Nizamshahi powers that controlled Maharashtra. It expanded beyond Bengal and Tamil Nadu,” he said.

“Don’t keep Shivaji Maharaj restricted to Maharashtra alone. His works appeals across country and world. His work depicts the highest virtues — swarajya, samarpan, swabhiman and sanskar. He represents true rashtravad ( cultural nationalism),” said Shah.

The BJP leader said it is Shivaji Maharaj’s Ashtapradhan Mandal model that the Centre is currently following. “Under PM Narendra Modi, we are committed to walk the path laid down by Shivaji Maharaj. The Maharashtra government is taking ahead his legacy and doing good work,” he said.

“We have completed 75 years of Indepemdence. By the time, we celebrate the 100th year of Independence, India will emerge as a global leader,” said Shah even as he exhorted students from Classes 7 to 10 to visit Raigad Fort.

Addressing the gathering at Raigad Fort, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said, “Shivaji Maharaj was not just a warrior king but a true nation-builder. He created a progressive and an ideal administration based on fairness and respect for all.”

“He didn’t just win battles—he won hearts, minds, and built a lasting legacy. The freedom we enjoy today stands on the strong foundation he laid with his courage and vision,” said the CM.

Fadnavis emphasised how Shivaji Maharaj united 18 Pagad Jaatis, and broke caste barriers and laid the foundation of Hindavi Swaraj—a revolution driven by equality and pride expanding his rule. He transformed scattered resistance into a united force devoted to self-rule and cultural resurgence.

Talking about the proposed monument of Shivaji Maharaj on the Arabian Sea, Fadnavis said, “Though the monument faces legal hurdles, with the case now in the High Court, we will continue our fight to ensure it is built at the original site. We will never give up on Maharaj or Mavala—this is our firm resolve.”

“I also sincerely request Union Home Minister Amit Shah for a national memorial of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Delhi. We will soon meet him and, with his support, will work to make this vision a reality at an appropriate location in the Capital,” said the CM.

“PM Narendra Modi ji has nominated 12 forts of Shivaji Maharaj for UNESCO World Heritage status. In this regard, minister Ashish Shelar and I will present our case before UNESCO in France. I truly believe, under Modi ji’s initiative, these forts will gain global recognition,” he said.

Warning that anybody making derogatory remarks against Shivaji Maharaj will be dealt with firmly, Fadnavis said, “Our government moves forward with the blessings of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, guided always by two principles—his ideals and the Constitution of India.”

Deputy CM Eknath Shinde also hailed Shivaji Maharaj’s life and his works.