27 June,2026 05:28 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Eknath Shinde attends the 353rd coronation anniversary celebrations of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj held at Raigad Fort
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Saturday announced that the Maharashtra government would approve a drinking water supply project for Raigad Fort to address the long-standing shortage of potable water at the historic site.
Speaking at the 353rd coronation anniversary celebrations of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj held at Raigad Fort according to the traditional calendar, Shinde also said the state government would stand by farmers if the delayed monsoon creates difficulties during the agricultural season.
He further stated that financial assistance under the Ladki Bahin scheme would continue and would not be discontinued.
Addressing the gathering, Shinde said Raigad Fort occupies a special place in Maharashtra's history and identity. He described it as a symbol of self-respect and said the government had decided to approve a water supply project to ensure adequate drinking water facilities for visitors and residents associated with the fort.
He said the annual coronation celebrations continue to draw thousands of devotees because of their historical significance. Referring to the original coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj 353 years ago, Shinde said the occasion remains an enduring symbol of self-rule and public welfare.
The Deputy Chief Minister recalled that the late Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray had encouraged celebrating the coronation anniversary according to the traditional calendar. While the event is also commemorated on the Gregorian calendar date, he said devotees continue to participate enthusiastically in both observances.
He credited Minister Bharat Gogawale and his associates with initiating the annual celebration nearly three decades ago. According to Shinde, the event, originally organised by the Raigad Shivrajyabhishek Day Celebration Committee and Konkan Kada Mitra Mandal, later received official recognition from the state government and has grown into a major annual celebration.
Shinde said Raigad Fort was the place where Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj established Hindavi Swarajya and laid the foundation of the Maratha Empire. He described the coronation as a defining historical event that established an independent kingdom after years of foreign rule.
Highlighting Shivaji Maharaj's administration, Shinde said the ruler promoted justice, public welfare and efficient governance without discrimination. He said Shivaji Maharaj ensured the dignity and safety of women, strengthened the navy and military, developed an effective justice system and promoted environmental conservation. These principles, he added, continue to inspire future generations.
Shinde also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for incorporating the royal seal of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj into the Indian Navy's new logo, saying the move had helped showcase Shivaji Maharaj's legacy on a global platform.
Referring to the current monsoon season, Shinde said that although rainfall has been delayed, the government would stand firmly with farmers if adverse conditions develop.
He also recalled that during his tenure as Chief Minister, the state government approved the Shivsrushti project and said work on it has continued under the leadership of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
Shinde noted that Raigad Fort, along with 11 other forts in Maharashtra, has been included in UNESCO's World Heritage List, describing the recognition as an important step in promoting the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj internationally.
