Pune’s Velhe Taluka Officially Renamed as Rajgad: A Historic Tribute to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

Reported by Mubarak Ansari
Mumbai/Pune, 21st August 2025: In a landmark decision steeped in history and cultural pride, the Maharashtra government has officially renamed Velhe taluka in Pune district as Rajgad, after the iconic fort that served as the first capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The announcement was made today by Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, drawing widespread celebration across the region.

Government’s Long-Awaited Decision
Revenue Minister Bawankule said the renaming was finalized after Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis put forth the suggestion, and the Union Home Department gave its approval on 6 May 2025.

“Keeping in mind the historical importance of Rajgad and the heartfelt demand of villagers, this decision was necessary. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj ruled from this fort, which symbolizes the glory of Swarajya. As Revenue Minister, this gives me immense pride,” Bawankule said.

The process to rename the taluka began years ago. On 22 November 2021, 58 out of 70 Gram Panchayats in Velhe taluka, along with the Pune Zilla Parishad, passed resolutions supporting the name change. The Pune Divisional Commissioner submitted a detailed report in May 2022, and a government notification was issued in March 2024. With no objections received, the change was legally cleared under the Maharashtra Land Revenue Code, 1966.

A Historic Welcome at Rajgad
Soon after the announcement, the valley of Rajgad-Torna echoed with “Har Har Mahadev” and “Jai Shivaji” as villagers and political leaders celebrated with drums, tashas, halgi, turari, firecrackers, and distribution of sugarcane. The atmosphere turned festive at Velhe Budruk, where a special event was held at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Memorial.

Hundreds of locals, along with activists from the Mavla Jawan Sanghatana—an organization that had been campaigning for the renaming for over a decade—participated in the celebrations. For them, this was not just a change of name but the recognition of Rajgad’s place as the first capital of Hindavi Swarajya.

Leaders and Citizens Unite in Joy
Several leaders across party lines attended the celebrations, including BJP State Council Member Balasaheb Garud, MNS District President Santosh Daswadkar, and historian Datta Nalawade. MLA Shankar Mandekar (Bhor-Rajgad-Mulshi) hailed it as a decision of global significance.

“Rajgad is not just a fort; it is the first capital of an independent nation in the world. This renaming will ensure that the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is known across the globe,” Mandekar said.

Local residents expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, CM Eknath Shinde, and Revenue Minister Bawankule for fulfilling a long-standing dream.

Why Rajgad Matters
Rajgad Fort holds unparalleled importance in Maratha history. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj made it his capital between 1648 and 1672, spending nearly 25 years on the fort. From Rajgad, he planned campaigns, strengthened his kingdom, and laid the foundations of Hindavi Swarajya.
Historians note that Rajgad symbolizes resilience, governance, and the birth of self-rule. The taluka’s renaming, they say, is a way of aligning present-day identity with Maharashtra’s glorious past.

Sentiments of the People
For the people of Maval, the decision carries deep emotional value.
“This is not just a renaming—it is an assertion of pride, culture, and legacy. The name Rajgad will inspire generations, just like the fort continues to inspire us,” said Datta Nalawade, historian and president of Mavla Jawan Sanghatana.