Mumbai, February 19 Leaders from all political parties, including Rahul Gandhi, paid tributes to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on his 396th birth anniversary on Thursday, praising his vision, leadership, and role in instilling self-respect among the people.
Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat offered floral tributes at the statue of Shivaji Maharaj at Lok Bhavan here, while Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and his deputies Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Pawar joined the celebrations at Shivneri Fort in Pune, the birthplace of the Maratha king.
Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, described Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as an embodiment of bravery.
"Shivaji Maharaj is a unique example of bravery, foresight, and just leadership," Gandhi said in a post on X. "His philosophy of life and courage continues to inspire us to fight against injustice."
NCP (SP) president Sharad Pawar said Shivaji Maharaj ignited a spark of self-respect in the hearts of the common man.
"It is because of Shiv Chhatrapati that the culture of honouring women's power has remained a guiding light," the Rajya Sabha member said in a post on X.
Maharashtra Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal visited Shivaji Park in Mumbai's Dadar area to offer floral tributes to the legendary warrior king.
"This day is an occasion to recall the bravery and valour of the Maratha king," he told reporters.
"I pay my homage to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on behalf of the Congress workers across the state," Sapkal said.
The Congress leader has been under fire from the ruling BJP over his recent remarks drawing parallels between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and 18th-century Mysuru ruler Tipu Sultan.