In a powerful address at the Geeta Bhakti Amrit Mahotsav in Alandi, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath celebrated the indomitable spirit of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, highlighting his historical resistance against the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. The event underscored the profound connection between Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra through their shared reverence for Shivaji Maharaj, with Adityanath passionately advocating for the recognition of his contributions to Mughal history.
Adityanath praised the initiatives of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, particularly the defense corridor in Uttar Pradesh dedicated to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This corridor, according to Adityanath, symbolizes the fusion of valor and self-reliance, becoming a cornerstone of India’s national development.
During his speech, Adityanath boldly declared, “Our allegiance is to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, not the Mughals.” He emphasized the victory of strength derived from devotion, citing Shivaji Maharaj’s defiance of Aurangzeb’s authority, which ultimately led to the downfall of the Mughal emperor, a historical figure now largely forgotten.
Expanding on the sentiment, Adityanath added, “Maharashtra embodies valor through its association with revered saints. The fusion of Bhakti (devotion) and Shakti (power) led to the construction of the grand Ram temple in Ayodhya, breaking the ‘saga of 500 years of slavery.’”
In his pursuit of historical recognition, Adityanath advocated for the naming of a museum after Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, emphasizing allegiance to his legacy rather than that of the Mughals. He also highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement of a defense corridor in Uttar Pradesh dedicated to Shivaji Maharaj as a testament to the nation’s pursuit of self-reliance and his valorous spirit.
As part of his visit, Yogi Adityanath offered prayers at the Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Sanjeevan Samadhi Temple in Pune, coinciding with Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’s visit to the ancient temple at Alandi.
In December 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a grand statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Rajkot Fort in Maharashtra’s Sindhudurg district, paying homage to the rich maritime heritage of Shivaji Maharaj, known for constructing several coastal and sea forts, including the Sindhudurg Fort.
