Grand, historical, first ever Shiv Jayanti Celebration in the city of Atlanta, Georgia

By SMAP- Shivaji Maharaj America Parivar

Atlanta has become a residence for many Indian families and with the growth of the population and bloom of Indian hubs, there is an increase in the number of Indian events as well.
Amidst all such events, the recently conducted historical event “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2020” by “SMAP foundation Inc.a501© (3) (c).was exquisite and unique. This idea was very innovative and attracted people from all walks of life. The celebration was charming in every way and educated attendees about Indian historical events as well as the iconic heroes while entertaining them. The event showcased the culture and traditions of India and the bravery of India Kings and queens. The entire Atlanta community participated in big numbers.

Founded in Los Angeles, California, SMAP has been celebrating Shivjayanti for 3 years. Atlanta joined the celebration this year for the first time. It was to honor the great king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj signifying Unity under the leadership/values of a great legendary king, whose birthday (Shiv Jayanti) the community was celebrating on this day.

This grand event started with outdoor Palkhi procession led by well-coordinated traditional dance (from state of Maharashtra) called Lezim dance then the palkhi proceeded on the rithmic beats of Dhol tasha Chief Guest of the evening Mr. John King, Honorable Insurance Commissioner of Georgia, held Palki at the procession and enjoyed the magnificently organized public event first time ever in Georgia by SMAP on the auspicious day of Shiv Jayanti.

The indoor event started with Shiv Garjana followed by murti stapana by Monalisa and Pravin Khandke Lamp lighting by dignitaries, Mr. John King, Lynne Homric, a Nonprofit executive and VIP Guest Shri Subhash Razdan along with SMAP Advisor, Sponsors, Executive committee members & organizers. It was followed by American & Indian National Anthems, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Arti and worship of Lord Ganesha.

SMAP Atlanta President Mrs. Monalisa Khandke opened the show with warm welcome and provided brief summary of the organization activities. “We are using Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as our role model to connect community leaders, promote unity and encourage leadership”, said Mrs. Khandke and then showed the video message of Vijay Patil, Founder of SMAP Foundation. In his message, Mr. Patil thanked organizers, VIP Guests and attendees for becoming a part of this historical celebration. “SMAP is celebrating 2020 Shiv Jayanti in five cities – Los Angeles, Omaha, Stamford, Silicon Valley and Atlanta – First time ever! …and thank you for becoming part of the history”, he said. The event was endorsed by Governor of Georgia Hon .Brian Kemp, Chief Minister of Gujrat-Vijay Rupani, Hon Shri. Devendra Fadnavis, Dept. Chief Minister of Gujarat-Nitin Patel & Chhatrapti Udaynraje Bonsale.
SMAP (Atlanta) Advisor Mr.Rajan Vedak gave some idea about SMAP goals and Future plan in his speech.

Main highlight of this Event was Interview and speech by Hon Mr. John King. He mentioned in his interview how SMAP is teaching kids the value and history, which is remarkable! The children are born and raised here, and they love this country but how do we show them the heritage and culture of their parents’ homeland, “it makes America a much better place”.

Speeches are followed by Local Community leaders & key supporter of this event Mrs. Rina Gupta , Mr.Kaushal Tipati,Mr. Ashok Patel, and Mrs.Pratima Dhumal received applause from crowd.
SMAP also got standing ovation by 700+ attendees and almost 300 participants for the cultural performances from Atlanta’s top dance Studios – Shiv Institute of Dance, Prem Dance Studio, Nritya Creation,Mudra Dance Academy, Natyashasram Dance, Supritas Dance Academy, NNKB, Hemangis dance group and more. The celebration also included a Drama on the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj that was written, directed, choreographed by Kiran Chibbar and acted by non-Maharashtrian people. Shivaji Aarti sung by Sruti sangeet music Classes, Dholtasha was organized by Aatmiya Dholtasha Group and Lezim was Choreographed by Sanjay Garde.

What made the event very special was the fact that performers were from different states of India along with kids presenting several forts age of 5 to 10. Kids also focused on current affairs “women empowerment” by covering brave queens and princesses who were great leaders and won war to protect their people and have unforgettable place in Indian history.

This event was creatively hosted by Vikas goyal and Shweta dubey they Captured every opportunity to share history behind each cultural performances.
Event Executive Committee included Kartik Bhatt, Pravin Khandke, Mandar Vedak, Shipra Pruthi, Pushkar Jamsadekar, Tejas Patwa,Organizers Snehal Gandhi ,Ankur Mali, Aarti jain, Sujit Borase, Milind Bavdekar,Jaswandi Karnik . Event was supported by Gokuldham Haveli, Maharashtra Mandal of Atlanta, IFA and other prestigious organizations.