‘Anadi Mi… Anant Mi’ Wins the First ‘Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj State Inspiration Song’ Award

Announced by Cultural Affairs Minister Adv. Ashish Shelar from Marseille Port, France

Mumbai : The first-ever ‘State Inspiration Song Award,’ named after the great warrior-poet Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, has been awarded to the song Anadi Mi… Anant Mi by Swatantryaveer Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. The announcement was made by Maharashtra’s Cultural Affairs Minister Adv. Ashish Shelar from the shores of Marseille, France.

Following the tradition of Maharashtra Bhushan and other prestigious honors, the Maharashtra government will annually recognize an inspirational song through the ‘Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj State Inspiration Song Award,’ presented by the Cultural Affairs Department. The award includes a cash prize of ₹2 lakh and a commemorative trophy.

Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was a distinguished scholar and literary figure, proficient in Sanskrit and the author of works such as Budhabhushan in Sanskrit and Nayikabhed, Nakshikh, and Satasatak in Braj language. Honoring his literary legacy, the Maharashtra government has initiated this award to recognize inspirational songs.

The Power of Inspirational Poetry

Life is a continuous struggle, and poetry provides strength and motivation during difficult times. Inspirational songs uplift the spirit, much like the undying struggle of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Minister Shelar emphasized that this award aims to honor such songs, reinforcing the message of resilience and courage.

Savarkar’s Anadi Mi… Anant Mi holds special significance. After his arrest by British authorities in London on charges of sedition, Savarkar was transported to India on the Moria ship. While the vessel was docked at Marseille on July 8, 1910, he attempted a daring escape, swimming 60 yards to reach the shore. However, he was recaptured. Fully aware of the torturous ordeal he would face under British captivity, he found strength in poetry, and it was during this time that the lines of Anadi Mi… Anant Mi emerged, reflecting his indomitable spirit.

“This song is a testament to Savarkar’s unyielding determination and patriotic fervor. Recognizing its profound impact, we are honored to announce it as the recipient of this year’s award,” Minister Shelar stated. The award ceremony will take place soon.

Award Selection Committee

A dedicated committee, chaired by the Cultural Affairs Minister, has been formed for the selection of this award. The committee includes:

• Additional Chief Secretary of the Cultural Affairs Department
• Director of the Cultural Directorate
• Managing Director of Goregaon Film City
• Deputy Secretary of Cultural Affairs
• Director of P.L. Deshpande Academy
• Editor of the Darshanika Department

Minister Shelar, who is currently on a visit to France, held an online meeting where the selection of Savarkar’s song as the first recipient of the award was unanimously decided. The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary Vikas Kharge, Cultural Director Vibhishan Chavare, Film City Director Swati Mhase-Patil, P.L. Deshpande Academy Director Minal Joglekar, and Dr. Balsekar.

The award will be presented to the song’s creator, and in cases where the lyricist is no longer alive, it will be given to their family or an institution representing their legacy.