AI to Bring Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s Valour and Maharashtra’s Glorious Heritage Closer to the Younger Generation: Minister of Tourism, Shambhuraj Desai

Review of Shivpratap Din Shaurya Smarak and Veer Jivaji Mahale Statue Projects at Pratapgad Fort

 Mumbai, October , 2026: Minister of Tourism, Shri Shambhuraj Desai, today directed officials to leverage modern technology in the development of the Shivpratap Din Shaurya Smarak and the statue of Veer Jivaji Mahale at Pratapgad Fort, ensuring that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s valour and Maharashtra’s glorious historical legacy are effectively brought to the younger generation.

The review meeting, held at Meghdoot bungalow (Government Residence), was attended by Shri Sanjay Yadav (IAS), Secretary (Tourism), Government of Maharashtra; Shri Vikas Pansare (IAS), Director, Directorate of Tourism, Government of Maharashtra; Shri Santosh Rokade, Deputy Secretary (Tourism), Government of Maharashtra; Shri Bharat Langhi, Divisional Director (Pune), Directorate of Tourism, Government of Maharashtra; Shri Akash Chakor, Executive Engineer, Directorate of Tourism, Government of Maharashtra; and other officials from the concerned departments.

The meeting covered a detailed review of various components proposed under the Shivpratap Din Shaurya Smarak project, including a ceremonial torch atop the bastion, lighting arrangements, a drone show, a 3D film, presentations powered by artificial intelligence (AI), and other development works.

Minister Desai directed officials to produce a high-quality film using 3D and AI technology to bring alive the historical significance of the events commemorated on Shivpratap Din. He also called for increasing the seating capacity of the memorial’s gallery and developing facilities that would offer visitors a more engaging and informative experience.

Highlighting Pratapgad Fort’s importance as a landmark in the history of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s valour and the establishment of self-rule, Desai emphasised that the memorial and its surrounding area must be developed to high standards while preserving the fort’s historical character. He directed officials to ensure that all work is completed in a planned and co-ordinated manner, with due emphasis on heritage conservation, visitor amenities and the effective use of modern technology.

The project aims to offer visitors an immersive understanding of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s valour, the bravery of Veer Jivaji Mahale, and the significant events that shaped the history of Swarajya. Minister Desai further emphasised the need for close co-ordination among all concerned departments, with particular attention to maintaining the quality of the project.