Grand Shivaji Jayanti celebrations marked by cultural and educational events

Caption: Labour minister Santosh Lad garlands a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji in Dharwad on ThursdayDharwad: The birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was celebrated with great enthusiasm and reverence at the Maratha Vidya Prasarak Mandal premises Thursday. The programme, organised jointly by the district administration and the Kannada &Culture Department, witnessed active participation from officials, students and members of the public. District minister Santosh Lad garlanded the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji and flagged off a grand procession. MLC FH Jakkappanavar and other speakers highlighted Shivaji Maharaj's contribution not only as a courageous warrior but also as an ideal administrator who promoted justice, equality and religious harmony. A special lecture on the life and achievements of Shivaji Maharaj was delivered by Srinivas PujarThe celebration also featured essay writing, drawing and rangoli competitions for students to encourage awareness about Shivaji Maharaj's legacy. Winners were honoured with prizes and certificates. President of MVPM Manohar More, ADC Geeta, Mahadevappa Yadwad and others spoke. The programme concluded with participation from various dignitaries, community leaders and members of the Maratha Vidya Prasarak Mandal.