Kupwara, Nov 7:
In a momentous event, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Eknath Shinde, and Maharashtra’s Cultural Affairs Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar, unveiled the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Kupwara on Tuesday.
This event marks a significant milestone in showcasing the rich cultural heritage and historical unity of diverse nation and serves as a beacon of inspiration for the people and the valiant soldiers of the Indian Army.
The Lieutenant Governor extended his heartfelt congratulations to ‘Amhi Punekar’ and the 41 Rashtriya Rifles of the Indian Army for this exceptional initiative. He emphasised that the statue of the great warrior, Chhatrapati Shivaji, would serve as a perpetual source of inspiration for both the people and the bravehearts of the army, demonstrating the unbreakable spirit of unity that binds our nation.
During the unveiling ceremony, the Lieutenant Governor paid his respects to the visionary leader, Chhatrapati Shivaji, highlighting how he scripted a new chapter in India’s history through his awe-inspiring victories against the enemy. He spoke of Chhatrapati Shivaji as a born leader who not only led with military genius but also upheld high standards of morality, proper conduct, and respect for all religions and sects.
The Lieutenant Governor encouraged the youth to follow Shivaji’s ideals and to selflessly serve the underprivileged, emphasizing their crucial role in nation-building.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a luminary who harnessed military genius and moral force, mobilized millions of Indians and achieved sovereignty for the Maratha empire. Sinha underlined the continued relevance of Shivaji’s universal and eternal values, which guide us on the path of social equality and peaceful co-existence in the present day.
To promote cultural exchange and strengthen the ties between regions, the Lieutenant Governor called for the annual celebration of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj festival in Kupwara on November 7.
Chief Minister Eknath Shinde lauded Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as an inspiration for every Indian. He said that Maharashtra’s history is intertwined with a tradition of sacrifice and bravery, making the installation of this statue in Kupwara even more significant, coinciding with the 350th anniversary of the coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji.
Cultural Affairs Minister of Maharashtra Sudhir Mungantiwar also paid his respects to the great leader, expressing his pride in the unveiling of Shivaji’s statue, considering it a truly momentous occasion.
Major General Girish Kalia, GOC, Vajr Division, presented the National Flags handmade by women of Kupwara to the dignitaries, showcasing the unity and collaboration that such events inspire.
Kavinder Gupta, former Deputy Chief Minister of J&K; Major General Girish Kalia, GOC, Vajr Division; Vivek Gupta, DIG NKR Range; Ms Ayushi Sudan, Deputy Commissioner Kupwara; Abhayraj Shirole, Founder Amhi Punekar and senior officers of Army, civil and police administration were present at the ceremony.
