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Revisiting Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj's vision for education at Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC’s)

Synopsis

The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) hosted a lecture on thoughts at the Bharatratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Memorial in Airoli, highlighting Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj's progressive educational reforms. Mr. Abhijit Kamble, BBC Marathi Editor, emphasised Shahu Maharaj's implementation of free and compulsory education, promotion of women's education, support for marginalised communities, significant budget allocation, and establishment of hostels for underprivileged children. NMMC Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde lauded the series' success in attracting over 2.5 lakh visitors. The event underscored the enduring relevance of Shahu Maharaj's educational vision and the importance of education in fostering a harmonious society.

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The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) recently hosted a thought-provoking lecture series titled "Thoughts" at the Bharatratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Memorial in Airoli. The lecture focused on the importance of education, championed by the visionary ruler, Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj.

Mr. Abhijit Kamble, Editor of BBC Marathi, delivered the keynote address. He highlighted Shahu Maharaj's revolutionary act of implementing free and compulsory education at the Kolhapur Institute. Mr. Kamble emphasised the need to understand and expand upon Shahu Maharaj's educational approach, which he believes laid the foundation for Maharashtra's progressive stance on education.

Mr. Kamble identified five key aspects of Shahu Maharaj's educational vision: the implementation of a law mandating free and compulsory education, a revolutionary step at the time; initiatives and laws promoting education for women, crucial for social progress; a special focus on educational development for the then-untouchable communities, ensuring equal opportunities; allocating six percent of the institute's budget towards education, showcasing its importance; and the establishment of hostels to facilitate access to education for underprivileged children.

Mr. Kamble stressed the enduring relevance of Shahu Maharaj's educational policies and the need to explore their application in the modern context. Education, he argued, is essential for creating good citizens and fostering a harmonious society.

NMMC Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde expressed his satisfaction with the lecture series, which has drawn over 2.5 lakh visitors and dignitaries. The series aims to create a cultural and intellectual tradition through lectures by prominent individuals.

The event was well-attended by dignitaries and representatives from various organisations. This lecture series serves as a reminder of the importance of education and the lasting impact of leaders like Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj who championed its cause. The series furthers the mission of the Bharatratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Memorial, a monument erected by NMMC based on Dr. Ambedkar's own views emphasising the importance of education, reading, information, and knowledge.

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