A Tribute to a Historic Maratha Icon
Maharashtra Unveils Its First Shivaji Maharaj Temple in Bhiwandi: Marking a landmark cultural event, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated the state’s first-ever temple devoted to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Bhiwandi, located in Thane district, during the 2025 Shivaji Jayanti celebrations. The temple honours the life and achievements of the great warrior king and aims to serve as a place of spiritual reflection and patriotic inspiration. CM Fadnavis stated that the site would be soon declared a pilgrimage destination for followers of Shivaji’s legacy.
Temple Design Echoes the Maratha Fort Spirit
The temple has been designed to mirror the architecture of Maratha fortresses, led by architect Vijaykumar Patil. Built across a 2,500-square-foot temple area, the structure is enclosed within a fort-themed boundary spanning 5,000 square feet, complete with bastions, watch corridors, and a grand 42-foot gateway. Inside the complex stands a 6.5-foot idol of Shivaji Maharaj, sculpted by Arun Yogiraj, the artist behind the Ram Lalla statue in Ayodhya. The walls are adorned with 36 sculptural panels, narrating defining moments of Shivaji’s leadership and battles.
A New Spiritual Hub for Shivaji Devotees
With its rich symbolism and spiritual presence, the temple is expected to become a popular destination for cultural pilgrims and Maratha devotees. CM Fadnavis drew a powerful analogy, likening visits to this temple to invoking Lord Hanuman before Lord Ram, thereby underlining Shivaji’s role as a defender of Hindu identity and dharma. Declaring the temple as a state-recognized pilgrimage centre is aimed at strengthening cultural unity and historical pride.
Merging Heritage, Patriotism, and Worship
Beyond religious significance, the temple also functions as a living repository of Shivaji Maharaj’s ideals. Each sculpture and design element highlights aspects of his governance, military vision, and moral values. As interest in historical tourism and cultural education grows, this temple will stand as a symbol of national pride, inspiring youth and visitors alike through its immersive storytelling and sacred architecture.
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Maharashtra Unveils Its First Shivaji Maharaj Temple in Bhiwandi:
| Aspect | Details |
| Location | Bhiwandi, Thane District, Maharashtra |
| Launched by | Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis |
| Inauguration Occasion | Shivaji Jayanti – March 2025 |
| Architectural Style | Inspired by Maratha forts, designed by Vijaykumar Patil |
| Main Idol | 6.5 ft Shivaji Maharaj statue by Arun Yogiraj |
| Key Features | 42-ft entrance gate, 36 historic life panels, Sabha Mandap |
| Total Area | Temple – 2,500 sq ft; Fort Design Campus – 5,000 sq ft |
| Historic Importance | First temple dedicated to Shivaji in Maharashtra |
| Religious Status | To be declared a pilgrimage centre |
| Broader Impact | Cultural tourism, Maratha heritage revival, youth inspiration |
