Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
The city is set to witness a grand spectacle this Shiv Jayanti, with 9,000 children dressing as young Shivaji and 843 youths donning the warrior king’s attire. Schools, colleges and public processions will showcase Shivaji’s presence in full spirit.
Shiv Jayanti falls on Wednesday, but celebrations have been in motion since the start of the month. Parents are booking costumes for children as young as three months to 16 years old. Schools are organizing fancy dress competitions, and many parents are arranging photoshoots. The complete Bal Shivaji costume including the Jire topi, jhabba, pajama, waistband, armlets, necklaces, earrings, and sword is in high demand. Alongside Shivaji, 2,500 youths will dress as Mavlas, the warrior king’s loyal soldiers. Their attire includes a turban, jhabba, pyjama, pearl necklace, earrings, and a spear. Costume rentals range from Rs 500 to Rs 5,100, depending on quality and accessories. Public processions will bring Shivaji’s legacy alive, with 843 young men embracing his look. Some have grown beards and mustaches for months, while others are opting for artificial facial hair. Many have even tailored custom outfits. “From toddlers to young adults, Shivaji’s spirit will be everywhere this year,” said costume designer Nilesh Malani. With a public holiday on February 19, schools will mark the celebration a day earlier, sparking a surge in costume rentals.