A Grand Cultural Program Blending Music and Technology – Minister Adv. Ashish Shelar

Mumbai, March 2026: Information Technology and Cultural Affairs Minister Adv. Ashish Shelar stated that the state government is working in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Heritage and Development.” He said the government is making efforts to present Maharashtra’s rich traditions, art, literature, folk music, and culture to the world through modern methods.

He was speaking at the inaugural address of an unprecedented drone show organized in Mumbai by the Cultural Affairs Department and the Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Government of Maharashtra. The event showcased Maharashtra’s rich cultural traditions, historical heritage, and national pride through modern technology. Chief Secretary Rajesh Agrawal, Secretary Dr. Kiran Kulkarni, Director of Cultural Affairs Shriram Pande, and a large number of citizens were present.

Minister Shelar noted that Maharashtra is the land of saints and warriors, and its cultural heritage continues to be preserved with inspiration from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Under the guidance of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the state aims to develop culture as a “soft power.”

Highlighting the growth of cultural activities, he said that earlier 300–350 programs were held annually, whereas now more than 1,200 programs are being organized across the state. This expansion has been possible with the support of Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, along with other colleagues.

He also announced that Ganeshotsav has been given the status of a state festival this year. Celebrations have been organized in India and abroad, especially in Mauritius. Efforts are also underway to secure a place for Ganeshotsav in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

He informed that, for the first time, the drone show will depict the map of Maharashtra, visuals of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and a special presentation marking the 750th birth anniversary of Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj. The initiative has been conceptualized by renowned music composer Hridaynath Mangeshkar.

Saga of Shivaji to Illuminate the Sky – Secretary Dr. Kiran Kulkarni

Cultural Affairs Secretary Dr. Kiran Kulkarni described the event, organized on the occasion of Ram Navami, as grand, divine, and historic. He said it is a unique effort to present Maharashtra’s glorious traditions and the heroic saga of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj through a new medium.

He highlighted the immense contributions of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj, stating that words fall short in describing their greatness and valor.

“However much we write or speak about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, it never seems enough. Words fall short and even pages are insufficient to describe his bravery,” he said.

In this context, he explained that the Maharashtra government has undertaken an innovative initiative to narrate the life and legacy of Shivaji Maharaj across the vast canvas of the sky using modern technology. This will allow citizens to experience the state’s cultural heritage in a unique way.

On the occasion of Ram Navami, the program will depict scenes of Maratha-era valor through dazzling lights in the sky, and citizens have been encouraged to witness and benefit from this unique experience.