Pune Witnesses Grand ‘Swararajya Rath’ Procession On Shivaji Jayanti Celebrations
Pune, February 19, 2026: In a spectacle described as the world’s largest Shivaji Jayanti celebration, the spirit of Shivshahi (the era of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj) came alive in Pune through a grand and majestic Swararajya Rath procession organised by the Shivjayanti Mahotsav Samiti, Pune. The historic event began from Lal Mahal, transforming the city into a living symbol of the Shivaji era.
The procession featured the sacred Jijau Maasaheb Shahaji Maharaj Shivjyot Rath as the main Swararajya chariot, followed by 96 inspirational Swararajya raths representing Sardars, Mavalas, Veer Matas, and warriors of the Maratha legacy. Highlights included the powerful martial performances by 51 women warriors of the Maharani Tararani Shaurya Pathak, thunderous war cries, traditional Dhol-Tasha performances by Nadbrahma Trust, conch shells, auspicious Shehnai music, and massive participation of women in traditional attire, along with thousands of Shiv devotees chanting “Jai Shivaji, Jai Bhavani.”
The procession was inaugurated by Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol, Mayor Manjusha Nagpure, Deputy Mayor Parshuram Wadekar, founder president Amit Gaikwad, senior police officials, elected representatives, and dignitaries. Floral tributes were offered to Rajmata Jijau’s statue at Lal Mahal, and the ceremonial Shivjyot flame was lit to formally begin the procession. This year marked the 14th consecutive year of the grand Swararajya Rath ceremony.
A unique highlight of the celebrations was the helicopter flower shower on the world’s first grand equestrian statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Shivajinagar, performed for the 15th consecutive year by Ishan Amit Gaikwad. Organisers stated that the historic statue, unveiled in 1928 and weighing nearly 8,000 kg, stands as a global symbol of Shivaji Maharaj’s valor and legacy.
The event concluded with massive public participation, cultural performances, and historic Swararajya raths showcasing the glorious heritage of the Maratha empire, turning Pune into a living embodiment of Shivaji Maharaj’s era and ideals.
