Shivaji Maharaj’s Glorious Saga Comes Alive Through the Grand Play ‘Janata Raja’: Chief Minister

Raipur, February 2026: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai said that the ideal life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is a source of inspiration for the youth. He described Shivaji Maharaj’s life as a shining example of courage, patience, strategic thinking, and ideal leadership, and said that everyone should set goals in life inspired by Shivaji Maharaj.

Addressing the audience during the staging of the historic grand play Janata Raja at the Science College Ground in Raipur, the Chief Minister said that Shivaji Maharaj displayed extraordinary bravery and wisdom even in the most adverse circumstances. Referring to the incident involving Afzal Khan, he said Shivaji Maharaj sensed the danger in time and took decisions with patience and strategy, ultimately emerging victorious. Similarly, his well-planned strategy against Shaista Khan teaches that even the mightiest enemy can be defeated through intelligence and courage.

The Chief Minister emphasized that Shivaji Maharaj was not only a great warrior but also a ruler guided by high ideals. He respected the faith of people of all religions and gave the highest priority to the dignity and safety of women. Recalling the values instilled by Mata Jijabai, he said that Shivaji Maharaj’s character teaches lessons of discipline, morality, and respectful conduct.

Sharing memories from his student life, Shri Sai referred to verses by poet Bhushan that vividly describe Shivaji Maharaj’s valor and heroism. He said that Shivaji Maharaj’s life is not merely history, but a constant source of inspiration that motivates people to remain steadfast toward their goals even in difficult times.

The special staging of the historic grand play Janata Raja began in the capital Raipur and will be presented daily until February 22 at the Science College Ground. This nearly three-hour spectacular production is based on the life of Shivaji Maharaj and the establishment of Hindavi Swarajya. Through lifelike scenes, grand stage design, and advanced technical presentation, the audience is given a vivid experience of a historic era.

Notably, the play has been organized under the aegis of the Chhattisgarh State Youth Commission. Auditions were held at Sant Dnyaneshwar Auditorium in Maharashtra, from which about 40 local artists of different age groups were selected. Under the guidance of director Shri Yogesh Shirole, the selected artists underwent rigorous rehearsals. Local performers including Pranjal Bakshi, Vartika Kshirsagar, Kriti Lad, Akanksha, and Aastha Kale participated enthusiastically.

During the performance, formations of soldiers with horses became a major attraction, and camels were also included in the presentation. Technical experts Shri Kaushik Naik and Shri Vaibhav Joshi from Pune handled stage design and lighting. Traditional elements, including Koli songs and other cultural expressions, added special charm to the event.

On this occasion, MLA Shri Purandar Mishra, Chairman of the Chhattisgarh State Youth Commission Shri Vishva Vijay Singh Tomar, Shri Ajit Rao Apte of Janata Raja, office-bearers of Maharashtra Mandal, and a large number of citizens were present.