Pune: Amidst the melodious sounds of Sanai-Chaughada, the roaring echoes of Tutari, the rhythmic beats of Dhol-Tasha, the waving saffron flags, and the energetic martial arts performances, MIT Art, Design, and Technology University celebrated the 395th birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj with great enthusiasm. The campus resonated with chants of 'Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj ki Jai!', 'Jai Bhavani, Jai Shivray!', and 'Namo Parvati Pate, Har... Har.. Mahadev!'

At the university’s main entrance, near the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on horseback, the Executive President of the university, Prof. Dr. Mangesh Karad, hoisted the saffron flag, symbolizing the Hindavi Swarajya, marking the commencement of the celebrations. Present at the occasion were MIT 'ADT' Executive Director Prof. Dr. Sunita Karad, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Rajesh S., Pro-Vice Chancellor Dr. Mohit Dubey, Registrar Dr. Mahesh Chopde, Director of Student Welfare Dr. Suraj Bhoyar, Director of Examination Dr. Gnyandev Nilvarn, Dr. Atul Patil, Dr. Sapna Deo, and other dignitaries.

The event saw participation from citizens of Loni-Kalbhor and Kadamwak Vasti Gram Panchayat, along with MIT-ADT faculty, staff, and hundreds of students. The students enthralled the audience with poems, powada (ballads), and powerful Shivgarjana (war cries) that sent shivers down the spines of those present. Following this, students showcased cultural dances and field games. A grand procession of Shivaji Maharaj’s palanquin was taken out, culminating with a floral tribute to the horseback statue via a crane, followed by an aarti ceremony, marking the conclusion of the event.

On this occasion, Prof. Dr. Karad stated, "I bow before the idol of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in my office every day before starting my routine because Shivaji Maharaj is a boundless source of energy. No matter how big the challenges in life, reading about his life provides solutions. Hence, Shivaji Maharaj lives within us, and today, as he turns 395, embracing his virtues is the true celebration of Shivjayanti," he conveyed to the students.

Blood Donation Camp Receives Overwhelming Response
As part of the Shivjayanti celebrations, a blood donation camp and a fort-building competition were organized at the university, receiving an enthusiastic response from the students. The blood donation camp witnessed the participation of over 216 donors, making it a grand success. Both initiatives were conducted at the entrance of the university's new IT building. The efforts of MIT-ADT students in organizing social initiatives like the blood donation camp as part of Shivjayanti celebrations received appreciation from the local citizens.