PM's tributes to Shivaji, describes him as 'ideal ruler'

The statue, proposed to be 309 feet tall, is expected to be taller than New York's Statue of Liberty and become a major tourist attraction.

New Delhi, Feb 19: On the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid his tributes to the "ideal ruler" and said his government is working tirelessly to fulfil his ideals.

"I bow to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on his Jayanti. India is proud that a valorous and great soul like him was born on our land," Modi said. Noting that Shivaji Maharaj had placed wellbeing of his people above everything, the Prime Minister said, "He was an ideal ruler blessed with exceptional administrative skills."

He added, "We are working tirelessly to fulfil the ideals of Shivaji Maharaj and create an India that he would be proud of." Modi pointed out that just recently, he had the honour of joining a programme for ground-breaking ritual for setting up of Shivaji Maharaj’s statue off the Arabian Sea.

"I will aways cherish that day," said the Prime Minister who performed the the 'bhoomipujan' on December 24 last. "Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is a torchbearer of courage, bravery and good governance. Shiv Smarak is a fitting tribute to him and his greatness," Modi had said then.

The statue, proposed to be 309 feet tall, is expected to be taller than New York's Statue of Liberty and become a major tourist attraction.

PTI