Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2026: Why 19 February Is a Day of Pride, Courage and Swarajya

Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2026 will be celebrated on 19 February 2026 (Thursday) across India, especially in Maharashtra, to honour Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. The day remembers his courage, military brilliance, leadership and vision of Swarajya (self-rule). People celebrate by sharing wishes, quotes, images, banners, and participating in cultural events. Schools, colleges, and local communities organise programs to inspire the younger generation with his ideals of bravery, justice, and patriotism.

When is Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2026? Date & Tithi

• Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2026 will be observed on Thursday, 19 February 2026.
• In Maharashtra, the celebration follows the Gregorian calendar date of 19 February, though traditionally his birth anniversary also aligns with the Hindu lunar calendar (Phalguna month, Shukla Paksha).
• The day is widely recognized as a public celebration.
• Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2026 commemorates the birth of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and honours his unmatched contribution to Indian history and the Maratha Empire.

Who Was Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj?

• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was born at Shivneri Fort to Shahajiraje Bhosale and Jijabai.
• His mother played a major role in shaping his values of bravery, discipline and devotion.
• He was crowned on 6 June 1674 at Raigad Fort and became the first Chhatrapati of the Maratha Empire.
• His reign from 1674 to 1680 established a strong, people-centric kingdom.
• Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2026 celebrates not only a warrior king but also a visionary ruler who built a disciplined administration and inspired generations.

Military Genius and Vision of Swarajya

• Shivaji Maharaj is known for pioneering guerrilla warfare, popularly called Ganimi Kava.
• He captured Torna Fort at the age of 16 and later built or strengthened over 300 forts including Raigad, Sinhagad, and Pratapgad.
• His strategic use of the Sahyadri mountains gave him a military advantage against powerful empires.
• Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2026 highlights his innovative military planning, intelligence network, and creation of a strong naval force to protect the western coastline.
• His dream of Swarajya symbolized freedom and self-governance.

Significance of Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2026

The importance of Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti lies in his timeless ideals.

Military Genius

• Shivaji Maharaj pioneered guerrilla warfare.
• He constructed strong hill forts such as Raigad, Sinhagad and Pratapgad.
• He also built a strong navy to protect India’s western coastline.

Administrative Reforms

• He established an efficient revenue system and ensured fair governance.
• His administration was disciplined and people-friendly. Officials were appointed based on merit rather than caste or religion.

Religious Harmony

• Although a devout Hindu, he respected all religions.
• He protected places of worship and ensured the safety and dignity of women during military campaigns.

Cultural Pride

• He promoted Marathi and Sanskrit as official languages and revived Indian traditions and court culture.

History of Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti Celebration

• The celebration of Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti gained popularity during British rule.
• Social reformer Mahatma Jyotirao Phule first initiated public celebration in 1870 to highlight Shivaji’s contributions.
• Later, Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak popularised the celebration in the late 19th century to inspire nationalism and unity among Indians.
• The festival became a symbol of resistance and self-respect during the freedom movement.

Celebrations Across Maharashtra in 2026

Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2026 will be celebrated with grandeur in various cities and forts.

• At Raigad Fort, special ceremonies and cultural performances are organized.
• At Shivneri Fort, storytelling sessions and historical tours highlight his early life.
• In Mumbai, landmarks like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus are decorated, and grand rallies are conducted.
• Kolhapur and Sindhudurg also host public gatherings, educational programs, and maritime tributes.

Schools conduct essay competitions, speeches, and plays to educate students about his legacy.

Leadership Lessons from Shivaji Maharaj

Shivaji Maharaj’s life teaches important lessons:

• Courage in the face of adversity
• Strategic thinking and planning
• Justice and equality in governance
• Respect for women and cultural values
• Commitment to self-rule and national pride

These values remain relevant in modern leadership and governance.

Inspirational Quotes for Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti

1. “Swarajya is not just a dream it is a responsibility earned through courage and sacrifice.”
2. “True leadership is built on justice, compassion, and fearless action.”
3. “When determination is stronger than fear, victory becomes inevitable.”
4. “A kingdom stands firm not on power alone, but on the trust of its people.”
5. “Courage is the shield, wisdom is the sword.”

Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti Wishes (English)

• Warm wishes on Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti. May his ideals of courage, justice, and Swarajya inspire us always.
• On this proud day, let us remember the Lion of Maharashtra and strive to uphold his values of leadership and integrity.
• May the spirit of bravery and self-respect shown by Shivaji Maharaj guide us toward a brighter future.
• Heartfelt tributes to the great warrior king who taught us the meaning of fearless leadership.
• Let us celebrate Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti with pride, unity, and gratitude for his timeless legacy.

Question

Q. Shivaji Maharaj was crowned as Chhatrapati in which year?

A) 1650
B) 1674
C) 1680
D) 1666