In Belagavi, the air is thick with anticipation as the city gears up for its 105th annual celebration of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti. It’s not just a commemoration; it’s a journey through time, a cultural extravaganza steeped in nostalgia and reverence for the legendary warrior king. This year the mega Procession will be held on Saturday, May 11 from 6 PM onwards.
Stepping back over a century ago, to the dawn of 1919, when the seeds of this grand celebration were sown. Picture the streets adorned with bullock carts, as the first procession in honor of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj wound its way through the lanes of Belgaum. Back then, it was a modest affair, a humble tribute by the locals in their own neighborhoods.
But as time unfurled its tapestry, the spirit of unity among the mandals sparked a transformation. Slowly, the celebration evolved into a spectacle, drawing participants from all corners of the city. Coconut and banana leaves became the canvas for vibrant decorations, each tableau telling a story of its own. What began as a simple homage blossomed into a kaleidoscope of local issues and historical dramas.
Today, the heart of Belagavi pulsates with the rhythms of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy. Thousands gather along the streets, their eyes alight with reverence, as the grand procession winds its way from Nargundkar Bhave Chowk to the culmination at Kapileshwar Temple. Every nook and cranny is claimed, every vantage point coveted, as the city immerses itself in the sights and sounds of yesteryears.
But it’s not just about the procession; it’s a celebration of culture reborn. Amidst the throngs, echoes of dying arts find new life – the clashing of sticks in Lathi fights, the graceful arcs of swords in mock battles, the mesmerizing dance of Lazim, and the skillful twirl of Zhanz Pathak. Each step taken, each beat resonating, is a homage to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a testament to his enduring legacy.
As the first light of dawn kisses the temple spires, the procession reaches its crescendo, a symphony of devotion and nostalgia. And in that moment, Belagavi stands united, bound by the threads of tradition and the spirit of Shiv bhakti that transcends time itself.
Hope the old tradition continue for the future generations.