Maharashtra Officials Pay Tribute to Social Reformer Shahu Maharaj

CM, Chief Secretary lead floral tributes on birth anniversary of pioneer of social justice

On the occasion of Rajarshi Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj’s birth anniversary, top government officials and civil servants in Maharashtra gathered to pay floral tributes to the legendary reformer whose legacy continues to inspire India’s social justice framework.

At a ceremonial event held at Mantralaya (State Secretariat) in Mumbai on June 26, Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik offered a floral garland to the portrait of Shahu Maharaj, whose work in education, caste reform, and inclusive governance left a lasting imprint on 20th-century Maharashtra.

Joining her were officials from the General Administration Department, including Deputy Secretary Govind Pawar, Assistant Desk Officers Rajendra Bachhav, Vijay Shinde, Nitin Rane, and numerous other government employees and administrative staff, who also paid homage.

Earlier, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis paid his respects at Varsha, his official residence, reiterating Shahu Maharaj’s role as a pioneer of progressive thought, particularly his contributions toward reservations in education and public service for backward classes, a move considered revolutionary at the time.

The event was symbolic of the state’s continued recognition of leaders who shaped equity-oriented policies, and served as a reminder of Maharashtra’s historic leadership in social reform and affirmative action.