2026-02-19 Thu

Every year, February 19 is celebrated as the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. This year marks his 396th birth anniversary. The great warrior king was born on February 19, 1630, at Shivneri Fort.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was a courageous and progressive administrator, a skilled management expert, and a wise ruler. He is recognised as one of the greatest warriors in Indian history and is credited with founding the Maratha Kingdom.

Shivaji Maharaj made a lasting impact on Indian history through his exceptional administrative skills. He promoted the values of Swarajya (self-rule) and celebrated Maratha heritage.

The celebration of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti was first proposed by social reformer Mahatma Jyotirao Phule in 1870, after discovering the samadhi of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Raigad. The celebration was later popularised and taken forward by freedom fighter Bal Gangadhar Tilak.