Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is one of the most revered figures in Indian history, known for his exceptional leadership skills, bravery, and administrative brilliance. His birth anniversary, celebrated as Shivaji Jayanti, is observed on February 19 every year. This day marks the birth of the founder of the Maratha Empire, who played a crucial role in shaping the course of Indian history. Shivaji Maharaj's legacy continues to inspire millions of people across India, especially in Maharashtra, where he is revered as a hero.

Shivaji Maharaj was born in 1630 in the hill fort of Shivneri in Pune, Maharashtra. He quickly gained popularity among the masses due to his exceptional military prowess and leadership skills. He established an army of skilled soldiers known as the Marathas and used guerrilla tactics to gain an edge over his enemies. His magnetic personality and exceptional leadership skills helped him carve out a formidable empire in the Deccan region under the umbrella of Hindavi Swarajya. Shivaji Maharaj's quotes and teachings continue to inspire people, emphasizing the importance of freedom, self-confidence, and knowledge.

The celebration of Shivaji Jayanti started in Pune and was reportedly initiated by Mahatma Phule in 1870. Later, it was promoted by Bal Gangadhar Tilak in 1895. The day is not just a celebration of Shivaji Maharaj's birth anniversary but also a day to cherish and propagate his ideas and values, including courage, strategic thinking, justice, religious tolerance, patriotism, public welfare, and empowerment of people. On this day, people in Maharashtra and other parts of India pay tribute to Shivaji Maharaj by visiting his forts, offering prayers, and participating in cultural events.

In 2025, Shivaji Jayanti will be celebrated on February 19, which is a public holiday in Maharashtra. According to the Reserve Bank of India's holiday calendar, banks in Maharashtra will remain closed on this day, while internet banking, UPI, and other related activities will continue to function as usual. Bank operations in other Indian states will remain unaffected by this closure. Additionally, schools in Maharashtra and some other states may remain closed to honor this day. The list of bank holidays in February 2025 includes: * Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti: Feb 19 (Maharashtra) * Statehood Day/State Day: Feb 20 (Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh) * Mahashivratri: Feb 26 (Gujarat, Mizoram, Maharashtra, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Himachal Pradesh, Odisha, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana) * Losar: Feb 28 (Sikkim)

Shivaji Maharaj's legacy continues to inspire people across India, and his birth anniversary is a celebration of his life, legacy, and impact on Indian history. His teachings and quotes continue to motivate people to strive for excellence, freedom, and self-confidence. As India celebrates Shivaji Jayanti 2025, it is an opportunity to reflect on the values and principles that Shivaji Maharaj embodied and to work towards creating a better future for all.