Devendra Fadnavis Hails New Centres at JNU Honouring Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Marathi Language

By A Staff Reporter

New Delhi — Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday expressed his appreciation for the establishment of two new academic centres at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in Delhi—one dedicated to the strategic legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the other to the Marathi language.

Speaking at the inauguration, CM Fadnavis said, “I am delighted that at JNU, a Centre for Studies on the Strategic Strength of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and a Centre for Marathi Language have been established. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj initiated 'swarajya' in this country. Such a Centre named after him is a huge matter.”

Fadnavis highlighted Shivaji Maharaj’s far-sighted vision, particularly in recognizing India’s maritime capabilities. “He built forts at our sea and built a fortress there in such a manner that won’t let enemies come in. In his era, the British and Portuguese were scared to come here. Later, they took control over us through the same route,” he added.

He noted that Shivaji Maharaj’s strategic insights, especially in coastal defense and governance, would now be studied formally, providing valuable lessons in statecraft and national security.