Dr. Gaurav Popat Ghode Honoured with the ‘Dharmarakshak’ Award by Descendants of Maratha-Era Commanders

Grand Exhibition of Shivaji-Era Weapons Concludes with Enthusiastic Response

Pune: Dr. Gaurav Popat Ghode, who has made significant contributions toward preserving the history, traditions, and culture of the Maratha era, was honoured with the prestigious ‘Dharmarakshak’ Award. The award was presented by descendants of the distinguished Maratha commanders and noble families who played a vital role in the establishment of Swarajya under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

The ceremony was attended by Milind Ekbote (Guruji Gorakshak), Dr. Swayamprabha Devi Mohite Patil, Siddharth Kank, Sandesh Deshpande, Dadaso Naik Jadhav, Sayajirao Gujar, Shrinivas Indulkar, Amit Gade Patil, Raghunathrao Dubal Inamdar, along with Sudhir Tare, Vaibhav Bhagat, and several eminent personalities from social, cultural, and political fields.

Dr. Ghode received the award for his remarkable efforts in preserving historical heritage by installing an aesthetically designed 450-kilogram canopy (Meghadambari) at the neglected memorial site of Shahaji Raje Bhosale in Hodigere, Karnataka. The memorial commemorates the visionary who laid the foundation for the concept of Swarajya.
On the occasion, Dr. Ghode’s associates—Kashinath Ozharkar, Sunil Dhawale, Mahavir Patole, Avinash Kadam, Prasad Chavan, and Akash Chavan—were also specially felicitated for their contributions.

The dignitaries praised Dr. Ghode and his team for their dedication to historical preservation and acknowledged their efforts in safeguarding Maharashtra’s rich heritage. They emphasized the importance of such initiatives in ensuring that the history, valor, and cultural legacy of Swarajya are passed on to future generations.

A grand exhibition of Shivaji-era weapons was also organized as part of the event and received an overwhelming response from history enthusiasts. The display featured swords, daggers, spears, and other historical weapons, attracting considerable attention from visitors. The exhibition provided valuable insights into Maratha military traditions, warfare techniques, and the glorious legacy of Swarajya.

The program was organized by Jayajirao Shamrao Baji Mohite and Shri Swami Om Malhari Pratishthan. The event was compered by Rashmi Suryavanshi, while Ravindra Jagdale delivered the vote of thanks.