Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Circuit under the “Bharat Gaurav” initiative by flagging off the train from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Mumbai. He stated that this journey would be an inspirational experience for all passengers.
Speaking at the launch, CM Fadnavis said, “This railway initiative will help keep the legacy and history of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj alive. Over 700 passengers are onboard today, with 80 per cent being under 40 years of age, travelling to witness the life and history of Shivaji Maharaj. This circuit train gives people from across the state the chance to experience history firsthand. It is a matter of pride that the train begins today, marking the 351st anniversary of Shivaji Maharaj’s coronation.”
Highlighting Shivaji Maharaj’s historical impact, he added, “By defeating the Mughals and foreign invaders, Shivaji Maharaj established Swarajya (self-rule), which later extended to Attock in the north. Today’s leg of the Bharat Gaurav journey will reach Raigad Fort. The journey also includes key historical sites like Shivneri Fort, Lal Mahal, Shivsrushti in Pune, and a visit to Kolhapur’s Mahalaxmi temple.”
CM Fadnavis extended gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Culture Minister Ashish Shelar, and departments like Culture and Tourism for making this initiative possible. He also congratulated all the passengers and wished them a memorable journey.
Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar, Culture Minister Ashish Shelar, Secretary of Cultural Affairs Vikas Kharge, Principal Secretary of Tourism Atul Patne, MTDC MD Manoj Kumar Suryawanshi, Indian Railways General Manager Dharmveer Meena, IRCTC’s Rahul Himalayan, MTDC’s GM Chandrashekhar Jaiswal, Senior Manager Sanjay Dhekne, and Railway officials and passengers were also present at the launch
Passengers received a traditional welcome at the station with dhol-tasha performances organised by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC).
They were greeted with flower bouquets and given tourism brochures highlighting Maharashtra`s key attractions. The overall atmosphere was enthusiastic and festive.
About the 5-day Tour:
This special Bharat Gaurav train will visit important historical sites associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s life. Programs themed around his legacy will be conducted throughout the journey.
Coordinated by Indian Railways and MTDC in association with the Maharashtra Government, this circuit train showcases the grandeur of Maharashtra’s rich cultural heritage. At every destination, tourists will receive detailed information about the significance of the location.
To ensure a smooth and memorable journey, MTDC officers and IRCTC staff will provide continuous assistance throughout the five-day trip. From railway stations to mighty forts, every stop will trace the footsteps of history, offering tourists an immersive heritage experience.
Tour Destinations:
Raigad Fort – Site of Shivaji Maharaj’s coronation and former capital
Lal Mahal, Pune – Shivaji Maharaj’s childhood residence
Kasba Ganpati and Shivsrushti, Pune – Pune’s deity and a museum dedicated to Shivaji’s life
Shivneri Fort – Birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga – One of the twelve sacred Jyotirlinga shrines
Pratapgad Fort – Site of the historic victory over Afzal Khan
Kolhapur – Visit to the Mahalaxmi Temple
Panhala Fort – Symbol of Bajiprabhu Deshpande’s bravery
