26 January,2026 07:28 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
After flag-hoisting ceremonies in government schools on Monday, over two crore students recited patriotic songs together. Pic/Special Arrangement
Under the 'Rashtra Pratham' initiative, students from across Maharashtra took part in a massive patriotic recitation event on Republic Day 2026, setting a world record, officials said on Monday.
After flag-hoisting ceremonies in government schools, more than two crore students recited patriotic songs together in a coordinated and disciplined manner.
An official statement, released by the Maharashtra School Education Department, on Monday said that the event, held simultaneously in schools across all regions of the state, was officially recorded by the World Book of Records, London. The recognition establishes a new world record for the largest group recitation of patriotic songs.
The programme saw participation from students in over one lakh schools across Maharashtra. Alongside the students, seven lakh teachers also took part in the event, making it one of the largest school-based patriotic activities in the country.
School Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse said that preparations for the recitation had been underway for several months under his guidance. The programme was initiated based on the vision of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, the official statement said.
A 14-minute instructional video was shared with schools across the state to ensure uniformity in the recitation. Students practiced regularly to deliver a disciplined and coordinated performance.
Pic/Special Arrangement
Alongside the world record, two other record bodies also recognised the event. Asia Book of Records and India Book of Records recorded separate achievements related to the district-level activities organised in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district.
Expressing satisfaction with the success of the event, Minister Bhuse said, "The aim was to instil a sense of patriotism, discipline and unity among students. He added that the programme was carefully planned and executed across districts, talukas and schools."
He also praised the support received from various social organisations, district administration, health, police, fire department and education stakeholders. He said the initiative not only set a world record but also planted the seeds of patriotism in the minds of future generations.
Bhuse announced that the patriotic recitation programme will continue every Saturday across all schools, regardless of management or language.
School Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse and Minister of State for School Education Dr. Pankaj Bhoir congratulated all students, teachers and officials involved in the programme.
The initiative was supported by senior education officials including Principal Secretary Ranjitsinh Deol, Commissioner Sachindrapratap Singh, district collectors, municipal commissioners, directors, and officers from departments such as Tribal Development, Social Justice, Backward Classes Welfare, and others, the statement said.
