Youth excursions to the Arnala and Sankshi Forts in Maharashtra
1. Arnala Fort at Virar (Palghar)
Palghar (Maharashtra): To firmly instil in Hindu youth an awareness of the glorious valour of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and his Mavalas, their unparalleled contribution to Rashtra and Dharma, and to awaken a sense of responsibility towards Hindu unity in the present age, the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti conducts a distinctive campaign — ‘A day in presence of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’. As part of this programme, an excursion to the Arnala Fort was organised, which elicited an ardent and enthusiastic response from a large number of young participants.
The programme commenced with darshan of the local village deities of Arnala — Shri Ganesh, Shri Kalikamata, and Shri Sheetlatadevi. In a gesture of reverence, Sou. Nanda Sawant offered oti to the Goddess. At the entrance of the fort, Dharma-devotee Shri. Bhushan Tamore ceremonially placed a floral garland upon the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, paying homage to his undying legacy.
A cleanliness drive was subsequently undertaken at Shri Datt Mandir and the Panchlingeshwar Mahadev temple premises. Later, Shri. Sandeep Gawandi addressed the participants on the topic ‘Direction for Dharmakarya’, inspiring the youth to understand their role in the preservation and strengthening of Dharma and national identity.
The young trainees from the Samiti’s self-defence training group showcased coordinated self-defence exercises, embodying physical awareness, discipline, and preparedness. This was followed by a guided exploration of the historic fort, marking the concluding phase of the day’s activities.
Of special note was the quiet, unassuming devotion of two women doing the work of temple cleaning. Their work was accompanied by the constant chanting of Bholenath’s Name, along with gentle, affectionate calls to the Deity. They remarked, “Your visit is a part of God’s design, which enabled the temple cleaning to be completed more swiftly.”
“Youth must remain vigilant about events such as ‘Sunburn’!” – Sandeep Gawandi, Hindu Janajagruti Samiti
Events such as Sunburn, which entice youth towards addictive substances and moral deterioration, are in reality undermining the very strength of our nation’s younger generation. It is imperative that the youth recognise these dangers and respond with alertness and discernment.
Feedback from participants
- Mr. Bhushan Tamore: Such initiatives must continue unbroken, ensuring that the history and spirit of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj are transmitted to future generations.
- Master Durgesh Sapre: This initiative serves as an excellent medium for carrying forward our culture from one generation to the next.
2. Sankshi Fort (Raigad, Maharashtra)
