The Shivsrushti project is one of the biggest and grandest historical theme parks coming up on a 21-acres plot, dedicated to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and his life, the first phase of which is ready at Ambegaon in Pune district. It will feature chapters from the Chhatrapati’s life in various art forms, his legendary escape from the Agra Fort, which is now ranked among the world’s “greatest escapes”, using modern 3D technology.

The “experiential” centre was inspired by the late author ‘Shivshahir’ Babasaheb Purandare, who has written a biography on the Chhatrapati, said officials of the Shiv Chhatrapati Pratisthan, who are overseeing the project.

Shah inaugurated open the first phase named - ‘Sarkarwada’ with the architecture reflecting 17th century era, with expo galleries, a section aDurg Vaibhav’ (Glorious Forts), featuring the forts like Panhalad, Devgiri, Purandar, Sinhagad, Raigad, Pratapgad, Vishalgad, Sindhudurg and others through an audio-visual presentation. He recalled how when Prime Minister Narendra Modi - who is an ardent follower of the Maratha king - had staged shows of the iconic play, “Jaanta Raja”, in 8 districts of Gujarat, thousands of people would watch and return, becoming devotees of the Chhatrapati.

“Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is revered all over the country from Kashmir to Kanyakumaria In his era, he used to protect temples from the Mughals or revamp the temples they had destroyed. We are doing the same by constructing the Lord Rama Temple (Ayodhya),” Shah said. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described Shah as a “true devotee” of the Chhatrapati who is writing a book on the Maratha warrior king’s illustrious and inspirational life, and is “the right person” to inaugurate the memorial.