Shivaji College has been marking a significant milestone with ‘Shivraj 350’, celebrating 350 years since the coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the founding of Hindavi Swaraj. Under the leadership of Principal Prof. Virender Bhardwaj, the college has embraced the spirit of Shivaji Maharaj, encouraging everyone to embody his ideals.
The year-long celebration kicked off on October 28, 2023, with the National level ‘Shivaji Bhonsle Annual Hindi Parliamentary Debate’. This event was followed by ‘Rajyabhishek Mahotsav – A Cultural Extravaganza’ on November 30, 2023, and the grand celebration of Shivaji Jayanti on February 19, 2024.
Various departments and committees organized numerous seminars, invited talks, and cultural programs throughout the year, reflecting the diverse ways in which Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy was honored.
The grand finale of the celebrations, ‘Rajyabhishek Mahotsav’ took place on June 6, 2024, commemorating the day Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was crowned king of Hindavi Swaraj. The event featured Laxmi Narayan Bhala, a member of the Kendriya Seva Vibhag, RSS, as the guest of honour, alongside the college chairman, Prof B W Pandey.
In his address, Bhala highlighted the pivotal role of Mata Jijabai, Shivaji Maharaj’s mother, in shaping him into a wise administrator and a brave warrior. The ceremony also saw the felicitation of 48 staff members, including 20 teaching and 28 non-teaching personnel, who were honoured with the ‘Shivraj Bhushan’ shield for their 25 years of exemplary service to the college.
The event also marked the release of the annual college magazine, ‘Shivraj’, adding a literary dimension to the festivities. Prof. Bhardwaj expressed his gratitude to all participants and urged the college community to continue upholding the values and vision of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.