Jyotiraditya Scindia unveils statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Karnataka’s Athani

Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region Jyotiraditya Scindia unveiled a 25-foot statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Athani in Karnataka’s Belagavi district on Sunday, December,14, 2025, describing the occasion as a historic moment that reaffirmed India’s spirit of courage, self-respect and national duty. Addressing the gathering, Scindia said the unveiling was not merely the installation of a statue but a solemn resolve to carry forward the ideals of Hindavi Swaraj and inspire future generations with the values embodied by the Maratha icon. He remarked that the clarion call of “Jai Bhavani, Jai Shivaji” continues to ignite fearlessness, pride and a deep sense of national responsibility among Indians even today. Recalling the life and legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the Union Minister said that at the age of just 15, Shivaji Maharaj had pledged himself to the cause of Hindavi Swaraj. Through extraordinary courage, strategic brilliance and visionary leadership, he defeated invading forces and safeguarded the self-respect of the nation, Scindia said. Highlighting the historical importance of Belagavi and Athani, Scindia noted that the region had witnessed Shivaji Maharaj’s valour during his southern campaigns. He said the area held strategic significance in securing routes linking the Deccan, Konkan and Goa, making the unveiling of the statue on this soil particularly meaningful. “On the land of Belagavi, the immortal saga of valour, self-respect and indomitable courage has come alive once again,” the Minister said.