Shreeshiv Rajyabhishek Celebration At Kirti M. Doongursee College Of Arts, Science And Commerce, Mumbai

29 June 2026 : The grand and inspiring cultural event "Shri Shiv Rajyabhishek Sohala 2026" was jointly organized by the Department of Cultural Affairs, Government of Maharashtra, the Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Mumbai, Deccan Education Society's Kirti M. Doongursee College, Dadar (West), and Vivek Vyaspith. The celebrations were held on 27 June 2026 (Jyeshtha Shuddha Trayodashi) at the college campus and on 29 June 2026 at Ravindra Natya Mandir, Prabhadevi, in an atmosphere of great enthusiasm and reverence. The event beautifully commemorated the historic coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, celebrating the ideals of Swarajya and the timeless inspiration drawn from his life and legacy.

On 27 June 2026, a majestic enthroned statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was installed near the main entrance of the college. The celebrations commenced with floral tributes to the statue, followed by a grand procession carrying Maharaj's palanquin and the sacred Shivcharitra amidst the rhythmic beats of Dhol-Tasha and Lezim performances. The procession was followed by Shiv Vandana, after which spectacular demonstrations of traditional Maratha martial arts were presented. Visitors also had the opportunity to witness exhibitions showcasing Shivaji-era weapons, rare historical coins, and fort models, reflecting the rich heritage of the Maratha Empire.

The event was graced by Adv. Neel Helekar, Chairman of the College Management Committee; Shri Sunil Mehta, Vice Chairman of the Mumbai Campus of Deccan Education Society; Council Members Dr. Maharudra Kekare and Sushma Ghumare; Dr. Anil Markandey, Principal of Kirti College; Dr. Rasika Mallya, Director of NMITD; Dr. Giribala Devasthale, Director of JSKBS; all Vice-Principals, distinguished guests from various fields, teaching and non-teaching staff, students from schools and colleges across Dadar, and numerous admirers of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

On 29 June 2026, the programme at Ravindra Natya Mandir commenced with a magnificent Shahiri Jalsa (traditional folk performance) by renowned Shahir Pravin Phanse. During the event, the book "Shri Shiv Rajyabhishek – The Beginning of a New Era", authored by Dr. Kedar Phalke, Professor at Kirti College, was officially released.

This was followed by an inspiring lecture on the life and legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj by Former Member of Parliament and President of the Bharat Itihas Sanshodhak Mandal, Pradeepdada Rawat. Addressing the audience, he emphasized, "The younger generation should not merely admire the outward image of Shivaji Maharaj but should understand the essence of his life and values, and imbibe them in their own lives."

The celebrations concluded with a grand historical stage production titled "Shiv Chhatrapati – The Legacy of Valour", directed by Pragya Sagade and Priyanka Shinde. Based on the life and achievements of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the performance received overwhelming appreciation and applause from the audience.

The programme was graciously attended by the Hon'ble MLA Shri Mahesh Sawant, Shri Sunil Mehta, Vice president of Deccan Education Society, Council Member Sushma Ghumare, Dr. Anil Markandey, Principal Kirti College, Dr. Rasika Mallya, Director of NMITD, Dr. Giribala Devasthale, Director JSKBS, along with all Vice-Principals, teaching and non-teaching staff, and a large gathering of dignitaries and citizens.

The grand celebration was successfully organized under the guidance of Dr. Anil Markandey, Principal of Kirti College, and Shri Shriram Pandey, Director of the Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Government of Maharashtra. The overall coordination was undertaken by Prof. Vijay Darekar, while Prof. Pranav Kulkarni efficiently compered the programme.