KALYAN: Kalyan MP Dr Shrikant Shinde has proposed a grand memorial to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s Maratha Navy on the Kachore–Netivali hill in Kalyan East.
The plan envisages a large statue of Shivaji Maharaj along with big replicas of Maratha Navy warships, so that visitors can see a key chapter of Maratha history brought to life.
Spotlight on naval history
While building Swarajya, Shivaji Maharaj recognised the need to secure the coastline and raised a strong navy. His sea forts and naval strategy are seen as an important part of Indian history.
Besides the ship replicas, the memorial could showcase the Maratha Navy’s campaigns, maritime war strategy and related historical events.
Aimed at students and youth
The idea is not only to create a tourist spot but to introduce students and young people to Shivaji Maharaj’s bravery and his ideals of self-rule and national defence. Historical exhibitions, informative displays and digital media could be used to tell the story to the new generation.
Link to Vasudev Balwant Phadke
Netivali hill also has a cave associated with Vasudev Balwant Phadke, often called the first revolutionary of India’s freedom struggle. Phadke and his weapons trainer Lahuji Salve remain an inspiration for young people.
With the proposed memorial, the hill could become a historical and cultural centre that brings together Shivaji Maharaj’s naval legacy and the revolutionary heritage of the freedom movement.
Shinde has also backed cultural activities in the constituency, including traditional jagran and gondhal events during Navratri, and funding for the redevelopment of the Savitribai Phule Natyagruha in Dombivli.