Pune: A major state-level programme was held on Thursday at Shivneri Fort in Junnar tehsil of Pune district, drawing top leaders including Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
During the event, Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar delivered an emotional speech, remembering her late husband Ajit Pawar. She became visibly moved while speaking about his deep connection with the historic fort, the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
She told the gathering that for Ajit Pawar, Shivneri was more than a monument — it was a place that shaped his thoughts and inspired his public life. She recalled how he would regularly visit the fort to pay tribute to Shivaji Maharaj.
First Public Address After Taking Oath
This was Sunetra Pawar’s first public speech after taking oath as Deputy Chief Minister last month. She described the moment as both proud and heavy with responsibility.
She said that while she had visited Shivneri Fort many times earlier, this visit felt different. Taking oath under challenging circumstances, she said she drew strength from Rajmata Jijau, mother of Shivaji Maharaj, who gave the vision of Swaraj and courage in difficult times.
She shared that standing on the sacred land gave her goosebumps and reminded her of the oath of Swaraj taken by Shivaji Maharaj and his soldiers.
Commitment to Ideological Legacy
In her address, Sunetra Pawar said she would continue to follow the principles of Shiv-Shahu-Phule-Ambedkar, The Shiv-Shahu-Phule-Ambedkar ideology refers to a progressive social justice movement in Maharashtra inspired by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj, Jyotiba Phule and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, focusing on equality, education and empowerment of marginalized communities, which she said Ajit Pawar strongly believed in throughout his life.
She assured supporters that she would protect the ideology and emotional bond Ajit Pawar shared with Shiv Jayanti celebrations and with the organisers of the annual event.
She appealed to party workers and citizens to maintain unity, dedication, and loyalty to the values of self-respect and good governance.
Focus on Development of Shivneri and Junnar
The Deputy Chief Minister also spoke about development projects linked to Shivneri Fort and Junnar taluka.
She said that the Shivneri Development Plan was initiated under Ajit Pawar’s guidance, with financial support allocated for conservation and infrastructure improvements.
Key announcements and highlights included:
- UNESCO Recognition: Shivneri Fort has been placed on UNESCO’s tentative World Heritage list, bringing international attention to the historic site.
- Fort Preservation: Budget provisions have been made for the conservation of forts across Maharashtra.
- Tourism Push: Plans are underway to develop Junnar as a major tourism destination.
- Historic Memorial Projects: Earlier announcements included plans for a memorial in Agra honouring Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy and a Maratha Valour Memorial in Panipat.
Government’s Broader Vision
Sunetra Pawar said the current Mahayuti government is committed to inclusive development and to following the ideals of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. She emphasised that governance should serve every section of society and uphold justice and dignity.
