Shivaji Coronation 2025: Raigad Fort buzzes with enthusiasm of Shiva devotees on the occasion of Shivaji Maharaj's Rajyabhishek
The historic Raigad Fort came alive today with patriotic fervor and cultural pride as thousands gathered to celebrate the 352nd coronation anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of Hindavi Swarajya. The grand Shivrajyabhishek ceremony drew an estimated three to four lakh Shiva devotees from across Maharashtra and beyond. The day began with the traditional worship of Raigad Fort and Shirkai Devi, followed by the ceremonial arrival of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s palanquin at the royal residence at 9:30 a.m. The event was marked by historical reenactments, spiritual rituals, and a deep reverence for the Maratha king who laid the foundation for self-rule.
Present at the ceremony were Yuvraj Sambhaji Chhatrapati Maharaj and Yuvrajkumar Shahaji Raje Chhatrapati, along with dignitaries, historians, and cultural enthusiasts. The main coronation ritual was conducted by Chhatrapati Sambhaji Raje, in a setting that symbolically echoed the original Rajyabhishek held in 1674. The fort reverberated with powadas (traditional Marathi ballads) and the rhythmic beats of drums and lezim as devotees celebrated what many described as a spiritual and emotional revival of Shivaji’s legacy. “It feels as though Shivaji himself has been incarnated at Raigad,” said one devotee, reflecting the sentiment of many who made the pilgrimage.
The event was jointly organized by the All India Shivrajyabhishek Committee and Durgraj Raigad, with the theme of ‘Jagar Shaurya Bhakti’ (Awakening of Courage and Devotion). The day's program included martial arts demonstrations, including Dhar-Talwar (traditional sword fighting), along with folk performances and cultural displays. To manage the massive turnout, authorities imposed a ban on heavy vehicles between Pachad and Raigad. The move was aimed at ensuring smooth passage for devotees making the climb to the fort.
As part of the multi-day celebration, the second phase of a Shiva temple on the banks of the Pundalik River is scheduled for inauguration tomorrow. Speaking on the occasion, Sambhaji Raje Chhatrapati emphasized his commitment to preserving the cultural and historical sanctity of Raigad. “Raigad is not just a fort—it is a symbol of Swarajya and the spirit of the people. It is our duty to preserve its heritage. I am committed to ensuring that only nutritious and essential things remain here, and I fully support the Dhangar community,” he stated.
He also praised the discipline and devotion of the attendees, noting, “What began with thousands of Shiva devotees has grown into a movement of lakhs, and their orderly participation reflects the high moral values that define Shivaji’s followers.” The grand Shivrajyabhishek ceremony at Raigad is more than just a commemoration—it is a vibrant reaffirmation of Maharashtra’s rich legacy, inspiring a new generation to uphold the ideals of courage, self-respect, and unity.