Pune to Host Grand Procession on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti on February 19

Pune, 17th February 2026: In celebration of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s Jayanti, Pune is set to witness a grand procession on 19 February 2026. The event is being organized under the guidance of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, and the ‘My Bharat (Mera Yuva Bharat)’ initiative, and is part of a wider Maharashtra state program.

The procession aims to highlight the valuable contribution of youth to the sustainable development of the nation and the state. It seeks to foster leadership qualities, personality development, social service awareness, and familiarity with government initiatives among young people. The initiative also emphasizes promoting national pride, enhancing social harmony, preserving art, culture, and tradition, raising awareness about cleanliness and the environment, and passing on the legacy of great personalities who contributed to nation-building to the younger generation.

A planning meeting for the event was convened under the orders of the Pune District Collector Jitendra Dudi. Chaired by Jyoti Kadam, the Resident Deputy Collector, the meeting was held at the District Collector’s office today. Officials present included District Sports Officer Jagannath Lakde, Assistant Commissioner (Sports) Govind Dangat, Deputy Education Officer Chhaya Mahendrakar, Tehsildar Shweta Pawar, Naib Tehsildar Suyog Bendre, Superintendent (Sports Department) Pradeep Mahadik, representatives from My Bharat-Nehru Yuva Kendra including Swapnil Shinde, state sports guides Shivaji Koli and Suresh Kakad, and Sports Officer Jyoti Suryavanshi.

The procession will begin at 8:00 am from the premises in front of Shaniwarwada. Approximately 2,000 to 2,500 participants from municipal and education department schools, including students, sports teachers, coordinators, and volunteers, are expected to join. The event will feature dhol (drum) groups, lezim troupes, and students in traditional attire.

The procession will culminate at the equestrian statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in front of S.S.P.M.S. School, where a floral tribute will be offered. Participants will also include members of Savitribai Phule Pune University, the National Cadet Corps (NCC), state and national-level athletes, and various award recipients.

The district administration has urged citizens to participate in large numbers to make the event a grand success.