Tag Archives: Maharashtra

Festivals of India: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti

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In 2026, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti, celebrated tomorrow, marks the 395th birth anniversary of one of India’s most admired historical figures, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This festival is commemorated with grandeur across Maharashtra and by Indian diaspora communities worldwide, honouring the Maratha king’s courageous legacy, leadership, and continuing relevance in modern times.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, born in 1630 at the Shivneri Fort, was destined to transform the political landscape of 17th-century India. From an early age, he demonstrated exceptional strategic acumen and courage, capturing the Torna Fort at sixteen—a feat that marked the beginning of his campaign for Swarajya, or self-rule. Over the next decades, Shivaji expanded his realm by capturing and constructing over a hundred forts, most notably Rajgad, Sinhagad (formerly Kondana), and Purandar, establishing the Maratha Empire’s core. His most celebrated military exploits include the daring victory over Afzal Khan at the Battle of Pratapgad in 1659, in which Shivaji’s tactical brilliance and personal valour prevailed over seemingly insurmountable odds. Another defining episode was the audacious sack of Surat in 1664, a strategic blow to Mughal economic dominance that also provided crucial resources for strengthening the Maratha state. Shivaji’s naval vision was just as remarkable: recognising the significance of maritime security, he built formidable sea forts like Sindhudurg and Vijaydurg and created one of India’s earliest indigenous navies to secure the Konkan coast from foreign threats.

A master of guerrilla warfare, Shivaji’s ability to outmanoeuvre larger armies earned him the moniker “Mountain Rat” from his adversaries. His confrontations with the powerful Mughal Empire, especially Emperor Aurangzeb, often ended in success through a combination of surprise tactics, local support, and deep knowledge of the terrain. In 1674, Shivaji’s grand coronation at Raigad Fort, celebrated by people from diverse communities, was not only a declaration of sovereign Maratha rule but also a powerful symbol of indigenous pride and unity. His governance extended beyond the battlefield: he assembled the Ashtapradhan (Council of Eight Ministers), instituted a direct land revenue system favouring peasants, and elevated Marathi and Sanskrit as administrative languages, bolstering regional identity.

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Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj revolutionised warfare through his innovative guerrilla warfare tactics, known as “Ganimi Kava,” which focused on speed, surprise, and deception. He trained his army, especially the Mavalas, in mountain warfare, leveraging the rugged terrain of the Western Ghats to launch swift hit-and-run attacks that disrupted enemy forces before they could organise a response. This use of mobility and knowledge of local geography made his troops elusive and difficult to defeat, earning him the nickname “Mountain Rat” from his foes. His forces specialised in ambushes set in narrow passes and dense forests, striking unexpectedly, often at night or during bad weather, to maximise confusion and damage. Beyond battlefield manoeuvres, Shivaji’s guerrilla tactics included targeting enemy supply lines to weaken their operational strength without engaging in costly, prolonged battles.

A crucial pillar supporting these tactics was Shivaji’s sophisticated intelligence network, composed of spies disguised as traders and farmers, which provided real-time information on enemy movements and plans. This intelligence enabled precise surprise raids, such as the famous attack on Shaista Khan’s camp. Shivaji Maharaj’s mastery of deception extended to spreading misinformation to sow confusion within enemy ranks. His highly mobile and fearless small units could rapidly assemble for decisive strikes and just as swiftly disperse, keeping adversaries off balance and conserving Maratha resources.

These tactics not only allowed Shivaji to defend and expand his kingdom against larger, better-equipped armies but have also influenced modern special operations and counter-insurgency strategies worldwide.

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Shivaji’s reign stood out for religious tolerance and social equity. Despite being a devout Hindu, he respected all faiths, ensured the protection of non-Hindu places of worship, and included Muslims within his court and army. He protected the rights of women and the downtrodden, upheld justice and humane treatment even for enemies, and rebuilt temples that had fallen into neglect. Shivaji’s life was a relentless pursuit of freedom, empowerment, and good governance, the very qualities that have made him a legendary figure whose exploits are celebrated with pride and reverence across India.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s leadership combined strategic foresight, personal bravery, and a commitment to inclusivity. He inspired loyalty among his followers by leading from the front, fostering unity, and promoting merit-based advancement. His innovative use of guerrilla tactics, emphasis on intelligence-gathering, and ability to form alliances allowed him to outmanoeuvre his rivals and consolidate power. In governance, Shivaji established a progressive administration grounded in justice and accountability, focused on the welfare of his subjects and the fair treatment of all communities. His ethical governance was guided by principles of righteousness (dharma), emphasising both economic stability and social cohesion. Shivaji’s legacy endures as a model of adaptable, visionary, and compassionate leadership, inspiring generations with values of resilience, integrity, and public service.

Shivaji Jayanti isn’t just a commemoration of a historical birth; it is a celebration of values: courage, justice, patriotism, and cultural unity. For millions in Maharashtra and Indian communities abroad, the day signifies renewal of pride and heritage. Shivaji’s model of governance and dedication to welfare, social reforms, and inclusivity remain aspirational for contemporary India. 

The day is especially important for fostering a sense of national and regional pride. Shivaji’s fight for ‘Hindavi Swarajya’ inspired not only his contemporaries but also generations of freedom fighters and reformers. His secular policies and egalitarian outlook are viewed as beacons of responsible leadership, worthy of remembrance and emulation.

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The spirit of Shivaji Jayanti is best experienced in Maharashtra, where public celebrations turn into cultural extravaganzas. The festivities typically include grand processions featuring decorated tableaux depicting scenes from Shivaji’s life and military exploits, cultural performances that include traditional dance and music, street plays (‘tamasha’), and reenactments of battles or coronation ceremonies, and community speeches by eminent leaders, scholars, and activists who deliver addresses drawing inspiration from Shivaji’s values and vision. Schools and colleges organise essay competitions, dramatisations, and exhibitions about Maratha history. Devotees gather at temples and forts associated with Shivaji, offering garlands and flowers to his statues and images and blood donation drives, clean-up campaigns, and charity events showcasing community service are held in Shivaji’s name. These events foster a renewed sense of patriotism, social unity, and pride in regional heritage. They also serve to educate younger generations about their illustrious history and inspire them to uphold values of justice, inclusivity, and self-determination.

The legacy of Shivaji Maharaj is more than historical; it’s a living source of inspiration. His emphasis on justice, people’s rights, and good governance is invoked by leaders and reformers even today. The day serves as a rallying point for the reaffirmation of collective identity, not just in Maharashtra but also for the Indian diaspora around the world. Shivaji’s life and the annual Jayanti celebrations continuously remind society to pursue integrity, resilience, and respect for diversity. By honoring Shivaji Maharaj, the day renews commitment to these timeless principles.

Recipes: Moth ani Mugachi Usal aka Sprouted Moong & Moth Curry

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A powerhouse of nutrition, offering protein, fibre, and essential vitamins, this recipe is perfect for a balanced and wholesome meal. Served in all Maharashtrian homes, this usal is both spicy and healthy and even those who do not like sprouts will enjoy this dish. 

Sprouts are high in digestive enzymes that aid gut health, rich in *vitamins A, C, and K, boosting immunity, low in calories but high in protein and fibre, making them weight-loss-friendly, improve heart health by lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, and are great for blood sugar control due to their low glycemic index.

Moong sprouts made with whole green gram are high in protein, good for muscle repair and growth, and rich in folate, making them beneficial for pregnant women, easy to digest, suitable for all age groups, and help detoxify and promote glowing skin. Moth or Matki sprouts are packed with iron and folate, helping to prevent anaemia, are excellent for gut health, promote better digestion, are a good source of complex carbs, provide sustained energy, and are rich in antioxidants, supporting cell repair and reducing inflammation.  

Moth ani Mugachi Usal 

Ingredients:  

  • 1 cup sprouted moong or green gram  
  • 1 cup sprouted moth beans or matki  
  • 2 tbsp oil or ghee  
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds  
  • ½ tsp cumin seeds  
  • ¼ tsp asafoetida 
  • 1 sprig of curry leaves  
  • 2 green chillies, chopped  
  • 2 medium-sized onions, 1 finely chopped and 1 sliced
  • 1 medium-sized tomato, finely chopped 
  • 3-4 cloves of garlic
  • 1 inch piece of ginger
  • 2 tbsp coconut (either dry or fresh) 
  • ½ tsp turmeric powder  
  • 1 tsp red chilli powder  
  • 1 tsp goda masala 
  • 1 tsp coriander powder  
  • ½ tsp jaggery 
  • Salt to taste  
  • Water as needed
  • 2 tbsp grated coconut 
  • 2 tbsp fresh coriander leaves, chopped  

Method:

  • Wash and soak moong and moth beans overnight with enough water to cover the beans. In the morning, drain the beans and put them in a colander and keep covered for another 10-12 hours. Depending on the climate you are in, this make take less than 8 hours or upto 2 days to sprout. 
  • Heat 2 tbsp oil and in a pan and once the oil is hot, add the sliced onions, garlic and ginger and saute on medium flame until it changes colour slightly.
  • Then add the coconut and saute until it turns golden brown and the coconut is completely devoid of water. This is important because if the coconut is still fresh and wet, the curry may spoil if kept outside. You could also use dry coconut and if using dry coconut, just saute till it turns brown.
  • Cool completely and blend to a smooth paste adding enough water. Keep aside.
  • Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.  
  • Add cumin seeds, asafoetida, curry leaves, and chopped green chillies. Sauté for a few seconds.  
  • Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.  
  • Add tomatoes and cook until soft.  
  • Add turmeric, red chilli powder, coriander powder, and goda masala. Stir well.  
  • Add the sprouted moong and moth beans. Stir to coat them with spices.  
  • Add salt, jaggery (if using), and about ½ to 1 cup of water.  
  • Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes on low-medium heat until the sprouts soften but remain slightly crunchy.  
  • Garnish with finely chopped coriander leaves and serve hot with rice or rotis.
  • You can also squeeze a lemon wedge before eating for extra flavour. 

Recipes: Chincha Gul Amti

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Known for its tangy and sweet flavour, Chincha Gul Amti is a traditional Maharashtrian dal made from tamarind or chincha and jaggery or gul. I got this recipe from one of the many recipe books I own (so old school, right). This version of the recipe includes coconut, which enhances the richness and texture of the dish, but you can opt to omit this if you don’t like the taste. 

Chincha Gul Amti

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup toor dal or pigeon pea lentils
  • 2 tbsp tamarind pulp or paste 
  • 2 tbsp jaggery powder
  • 2 tbsp grated coconut, either fresh or desiccated
  • 1 tbsp oil or ghee
  • ½ tsp mustard seeds
  • ½ tsp cumin seeds
  • ¼ tsp asafoetida 
  • 2 dried red chilies
  • 8-10 curry leaves
  • ½ tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp red chili powder 
  • 1 tsp goda masala (optional) or garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • Water as needed
  • Finely chopped coriander leaves to garnish

Method:

  • Wash the dal well and soak in hot water for 30 minutes. 
  • Then pressure cook the dal with 2-3 cups of water until soft. This should take around 3-4 whistles. Mash or whisk the cooked dal to a smooth paste and set it aside.
  • If using tamarind pulp, soak tamarind in warm water for about 10-15 minutes. Extract the tamarind pulp by squeezing the tamarind, and set it aside. 
  • If using rock jaggery, dissolve the jaggery in a small amount of water, ensuring no lumps, and set aside.
  • In a deep pan or kadai, heat the oil or ghee on medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds, and let them splutter. Add asafoetida, dried red chilies, and curry leaves. Saute for a minute until fragrant.
  • Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and goda or garam masala and stir for a few seconds. Then add the grated coconut and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the coconut turns slightly golden.
  • Pour the cooked and mashed dal into the pan. Stir well and adjust the consistency by adding water as needed. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
  • Add the tamarind pulp or paste and jaggery to the simmering dal. Stir well to combine the sweet and tangy flavors. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld.
  • Add salt to taste and adjust the level of tamarind and jaggery according to your preference. If the amti is too thick, add a bit more water to achieve a medium consistency.
  • Once done, turn off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
  • Serve Chincha Gul Amti hot with steamed rice or roti.

Festivals of India: Marleshwar Yatra Sangameshawar

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Nestled amidst the emerald embrace of the Sahyadri Mountains in Maharashtra, India, lies the ancient cave temple of Marleshwar, a hallowed sanctuary dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Marleshwar Yatra Sangameshwar is a unique pilgrimage that converges at the sacred confluence of the Marleshwar and Sangameshwar rivers. Located in Sangameshwar in Ratnagiri in the state of Maharashtra, the temple has 300–400 steps, which need to be climbed to reach the cave where the temple is located and has a small viewing platform from which the magnificent Dhareshwar Waterfalls can be admired. Surrounded by the Sahyadri range and the Dhareshwar Waterfalls, the temple has treacherous yet exhilarating pathways and its natural environment makes it a nature lover’s getaway destination. Marleshwar’s name may have been inspired by Maral village.

Every year on the day of Makarsankranti, on January 15, the temple witnesses the marriage of Marleshwar and Girijadevi. This two-day festival, steeped in myth and vibrant tradition, celebrates the divine union of Lord Marleshwar, or Lord Shiva and Goddess Girija Devi, or Goddess Parvati. In a tapestry woven with threads of faith, folklore, and the raw beauty of nature, the celebration draws thousands of devotees from across the country.

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Legend has it that Marleshwar is associated with the sage Parashurama, an avatar of Lord Vishnu. Devotees believe that Parashurama, in search of penance and solitude, created the Marleshwar Linga at this location. The Sangameshwar River, a tributary of the Shastri, flows nearby, adding to the spiritual aura of the site.

The legend behind the yatra is as captivating as the landscape itself. It’s said that Lord Shiva, disguised as a hunter, fell in love with a beautiful cowherd named Girija. Impressed by his strength and unwavering resolve, Girija’s father, King Daksha, agreed to their marriage on the condition that Shiva complete a series of arduous tasks. Undeterred, Shiva conquered each challenge, and the sacred union was blessed.

The Marleshwar Yatra celebrates this divine marriage, with the temple becoming a symbol of their eternal bond. The cave itself, formed by a natural spring, adds a mystical touch to the experience. The ancient carvings and sculptures adorn the walls, whispering stories of faith and devotion, while the gentle flow of the spring water creates a soothing ambience.

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The most unusual phenomenon related to the Marleshwar Temple, which also makes it extremely popular among pilgrims, is the presence of cobra snakes in the temple complex. It is widely believed that Lord Shiva lived here with these snakes. Legend says that these snakes are harmless and do not bite the visiting pilgrims and one can even touch them if they want to. So far, there have been no reports or incidents involving the snakes, and this occurrence makes the temple extremely renowned among devotees. The sighting of these cobras has, however, reduced drastically over the past few years because tourists tend to annoy or scare away the snakes.

The Yatra transcends a mere religious event; it’s a vibrant explosion of colours, music, and cultural immersion. The air thrums with devotional chants and the rhythmic beats of drums. Devotees adorned in their finest attire offer prayers and seek blessings from the deities. The surrounding fairground comes alive with a kaleidoscope of stalls selling traditional handicrafts, sweets, and souvenirs. Cultural performances like dance dramas depicting the story of Shiva and Parvati add to the festive spirit, filling the atmosphere with captivating narratives. There are also fairs on Mahashivratri and Tripuri Poornima.

The journey to Marleshwar itself is an adventure in its own right. Nestled amidst verdant forests and cascading waterfalls, the path to the temple winds its way through breathtaking scenery. The air is crisp and invigorating, and the sounds of nature create a symphony of their own. The trek to the cave temple, although challenging, is a rewarding one, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding Konkan region. For those seeking a deeper connection with nature, the yatra provides an opportunity to explore the surrounding beauty. The cascading Dhareshwar waterfall, a short distance from the temple, offers a refreshing respite. Adventure enthusiasts can trek further to explore nearby forts and ancient caves, each whispering tales of a bygone era.

Central to the Marleshwar Yatra Sangameshwar is the unwavering faith and devotion of the pilgrims. The act of undertaking this pilgrimage is not merely a tradition; it is an expression of deep-rooted belief and commitment to spiritual growth. Pilgrims approach the yatra with humility, surrendering to the divine forces that guide their journey.

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While the Marleshwar Yatra Sangameshwar embodies the timeless traditions of Maharashtra, it is not immune to the challenges of the modern era. Environmental conservation, infrastructural development, and the preservation of cultural authenticity pose complex challenges. Efforts are underway to strike a balance between preserving the sanctity of the pilgrimage and adapting to the needs of the contemporary world. Conservation initiatives, awareness campaigns, and community involvement play crucial roles in ensuring the sustainable continuation of this sacred tradition.

For those who undertake the yatra, it is a transformative experience—a journey that transcends the physical and delves into the spiritual. The Marleshwar Yatra Sangameshwar is more than a pilgrimage; it is a celebration of faith, community, and the timeless connection between humans and the sacred landscapes they traverse.

Festivals of India: Bhagoria

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The Bhagoria festival is a vibrant and colourful festival celebrated by the tribal communities of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, which was originally the Malwa region. The festival is held annually in the Hindu month of Phalguna, which corresponds to February or March in the Gregorian calendar. The Bhagoria festival is a celebration of the arrival of spring and marks the beginning of the harvest season. It is a time for the tribal communities to come together, dance, sing, and exchange gifts. The tribes who participate include the Bhil, Bhilala, and Pateliya.

The festival takes place in the Badwani, Dhar, Alirajpur, Khargone and Jhabua districts of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. It has agricultural significance and coincides with the end of harvesting crops. It is celebrated for seven days in March before the Holi Festival. Traditionally, celebrants travel to the festival grounds with their families on decorated bullock carts. There they purchase the things required to celebrate Holi, dance to traditional musical instruments, sing songs called Lokgeet, and enjoy meeting family and friends.

The Bhagoria festival is unique to the tribal communities of Madhya Pradesh and northeastern Maharashtra and is one of the largest tribal festivals in India. It is a celebration of the vibrant and diverse culture of these communities and attracts visitors from all over the world. The festival is celebrated in different parts of Madhya Pradesh, with the largest celebrations taking place in Jhabua, Alirajpur, and Dhar districts.

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One of the highlights of the Bhagoria festival is the ‘Bhagoriya Mela’ or fair. This fair is a gathering of tribal communities from all over the region and is a place for people to come together, socialise, and participate in various activities. The Bhagoriya Mela is a lively and colourful affair, with stalls selling food, drinks, and handmade goods. There is also a wide range of entertainment available, including music, dance, and theatre performances.

The Bhagoria festival is famous for its traditional dance and music. The tribal communities of Madhya Pradesh have a rich tradition of music and dance, and the Bhagoria festival provides a platform for these traditions to be showcased. The dances performed during the festival are an expression of joy and happiness and are performed by both men and women. The music played during the festival is characterized by its use of traditional instruments such as the dhol, nagara, and manjira.

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One of the most unique and interesting aspects of the Bhagoria festival is the ‘Haldi-Kumkum’ ritual. During this ritual, married women apply turmeric paste and vermilion powder to each other’s foreheads. The ritual symbolizes the bond between the women and is believed to bring good luck and prosperity. The ‘Haldi-Kumkum’ ritual is an important part of the Bhagoria festival and is performed by women from all the tribal communities that participate in the festival.

The Bhagoria festival is also a time for love and courtship. During the festival, young men and women come together to meet and get to know each other. If two people are interested in each other, they can exchange gifts and formalize their relationship. This exchange of gifts is known as ‘Bhagoria Haat’. The Bhagoria Haat is an important part of the Bhagoria festival and is a time for the young people of the tribal communities to come together and celebrate their relationships.

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The Bhagoria festival is a celebration of the rich and diverse culture of the tribal communities of Madhya Pradesh. It is a time for people to come together, socialize, and celebrate the arrival of spring and the beginning of the harvest season. The Bhagoria festival is an important part of the cultural heritage of India and is a unique and vibrant celebration that attracts visitors from all over the world.

The Bhagoria festival is a celebration of life, love, and joy and a time for the tribal communities of Malwa to come together and celebrate their culture and traditions. The Bhagoria festival is a true expression of the rich and diverse culture of India and is a celebration that should not be missed.