Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Glory Circuit is an Inspirational Journey: CM Devendra Fadnavis

Chief Minister Flags Off the ‘Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Circuit’ Under Bharat Gaurav Train Initiative

Mumbai – Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis today flagged off the ‘Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Circuit’ Bharat Gaurav Train from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Mumbai, calling it an inspirational journey for all passengers. He stated that this rail journey under Indian Railways’ Bharat Gaurav Yatra would serve as a powerful medium to preserve and celebrate the life and legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and India’s freedom struggle.

CM Fadnavis highlighted that over 700 passengers are part of this inaugural journey, with 80% of them under the age of 40, reflecting a rising interest among the youth in learning about Shivaji Maharaj’s history. He expressed joy that the circuit begins on the occasion of the 351st anniversary of Shivaji Maharaj’s coronation. The train offers an opportunity for people from across Maharashtra to experience history firsthand.

He reminded everyone how Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj defeated the Mughals and foreign invaders to establish Swarajya (self-rule), which later expanded to the frontiers of Attock. The train will cover key sites such as Raigad (the capital of Shivaji’s empire), Shivneri Fort (his birthplace), Lal Mahal and Shivsrushti in Pune (depicting his childhood and life), Pratapgad Fort (site of the iconic battle against Afzal Khan), Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga (a major religious site), Kolhapur’s Mahalaxmi Temple, and Panhala Fort (symbol of the bravery of Baji Prabhu Deshpande).

He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, and Maharashtra’s Minister of Cultural Affairs Ashish Shelar, along with the Tourism Department, for making this initiative a reality.

During the ceremony, CM Fadnavis extended best wishes to all travelers and congratulated them for being part of this historic first circuit journey.

Present at the launch were Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Rahul Narwekar, Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar, CM’s Additional Chief Secretary, Secretary of the Department of Culture Vikas Kharge, Principal Secretary of Tourism Atul Patne, MTDC Managing Director Manoj Kumar Suryawanshi, Indian Railways General Manager Dharmveer Meena, IRCTC’s Rahul Himalayan, and other senior railway and tourism officials.

Passengers were welcomed at the station with traditional dhol-tasha performances organized by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC). They were greeted with floral bouquets and provided with informative brochures on tourist destinations across the state. The atmosphere was festive as the train set off on its journey.

This five-day special tour will take travelers to key historical places associated with the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Cultural programs themed around his life will also be organized.

The Bharat Gaurav train, operated in coordination with Indian Railways and MTDC, aims to showcase Maharashtra’s rich heritage. At each stop, detailed information about local heritage and tourist attractions will be shared with the travelers.

To ensure a smooth and enriching experience, MTDC officials and IRCTC will provide guidance and assistance throughout the journey. From forts to railway stations, the tour will allow travelers to trace historical footprints while enjoying the experience of heritage tourism.

Tour Itinerary:

1. Raigad Fort – Site of Shivaji Maharaj’s coronation and his capital.
2. Lal Mahal, Pune – His childhood residence.
3. Kasba Ganpati and Shivsrushti, Pune – The city’s deity and a museum on Shivaji’s life.
4. Shivneri Fort – Birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj.
5. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga – One of the 12 revered Jyotirlingas.
6. Pratapgad Fort – Site of the famous battle with Afzal Khan.
7. Kolhapur – Darshan at Mahalaxmi Temple.
8. Panhala Fort – Symbol of Baji Prabhu Deshpande’s bravery.