Bhakti Chalak

The legacy of maratha warrior Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is often misrepresented, with attempts to brand him as anti-Muslim. Political narratives shape his image according to convenience, but historical evidence proves that he built Swarajya by uniting people from diverse castes and communities.

However, an organization in Pune has taken a remarkable step to uphold Shivaji’s vision of religious harmony. Pune’s Nav Jagruti Mitramandal, in collaboration with Bajme Taha Young Circle, Bajme Rahebar Young Circle, Unity Friend Circle, Faizane Raza Young Circle, and Jiyan Friend Circle, organized a grand interfaith Iftar in Mangalwar Peth.

Rahul Sharma, President of Nav Jagruti Mitramandal, said, "Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s battles were against the Mughals, not against Muslims. He united people from all castes and religions to establish Swarajya, proving that he was never anti-Muslim. Our concept of Shiv Jayanti is inspired by the fusion of 'Bhakti' (devotion) and 'Shakti' (strength). This year, we decided to celebrate it by bringing together our Muslim brothers and members of the Warkari sect."

It may be mentioned for the uninitiated that Warkari is a religious movement within the bhakti spiritual tradition of Vaishnavite Hinduism, associated with Maharashtra. Its followers worship Vitthal, a form of Vishnu or Krishna. 

During his reign, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj successfully implemented the Bhakti-Shakti concept—using devotion to spread religious unity and equality while employing strength to establish Swarajya. The Warkari sect played a key role in social reforms, fostering equality and justice. Inspired by this philosophy, the organizers structured the event to reflect the same values.

Hindus and Muslims attending interfaith Iftar

Rahul Sharma said, “For the past four years, we have been organizing Iftars. Previously, Hanuman Jayanti coincided with Ramzan, so we celebrated both festivals together. This year, since Shiv Jayanti fell within the sacred month of Ramzan, our Muslim friends suggested combining both celebrations. That’s how this initiative came to life."

Explaining the community’s response he said, "When we first shared our idea with the Warkari community, they were skeptical about whether people from different backgrounds would come together. However, after participating in the event, they were deeply moved and wholeheartedly praised our initiative. Their appreciation is the true validation of our efforts."

Parveen Tamboli, one of the attendees, said, "This event held in honor of Shivaji Maharaj’s birth anniversary is truly commendable. In India, Hindus and Muslims coexist in harmony, and this program reinforces that unity every year. Anyone trying to divide Hindus and Muslims in Maharashtra will face resistance. I came here to break my fast because I want to show the world that 'Hindus and Muslims are one."

Rizwan Khan, Vice President of the Pune District Retail Traders Association, said,  “This was my first time attending the event, and I was overwhelmed by what I witnessed. It was a beautiful confluence of Ganga-Jamuni culture. Hindus, Muslims, and Warkari sect members coming together created a truly sacred atmosphere. Such initiatives should be replicated everywhere. I am committed to organizing a similar event with my fellow traders."

Ismail Khan, one of the event organizers, highlighted the importance of this initiative:

ALSO READ: Karnataka: Non-Muslim students of premier institute organise iftar for Muslim friends

"On the auspicious occasion of Shiv Jayanti (birth anniversary of Shivaji Maharaj) anniversary, we decided to host this Iftar. For the past four years, our four groups have been organizing food drives and Iftar gatherings for both Hindus and Muslims. Our goal is to preserve and strengthen the Hindu-Muslim unity that has existed for generations."