How Abhay Bhutada Foundation Strengthens Cultural Education at Shivsrushti

Shivsrushti is a heritage theme park situated on the outskirts of Pune, built to narrate the life and legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Initiated by the Maharaja Shivaji Maharaj Smarak Samiti and supported by the late historian Babasaheb Purandare, the park features replicas of historical forts, storytelling stations, and immersive digital content. With each corner of the park, visitors encounter rich episodes from Maharashtra’s history, presented in an engaging and educational manner.

A Foundation’s Deep Investment in Heritage

Abhay Bhutada, founder and chairman of the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, has long championed causes in education and social empowerment. The Foundation’s support for Shivsrushti involves more than just one-time aid. Their recent donation funds regular maintenance, introduction of new exhibits, and updates to facilities. This ensures that the park continues to be an attractive and meaningful destination for history lovers, students, and tourists alike.

A High-Tech Storytelling Journey

One of Shivsrushti’s defining features is the combination of physical craftsmanship and modern technology. Carefully recreated forts and environments set the stage for augmented reality zones where visitors witness moments from Shivaji Maharaj’s battles. Projection visuals recreate royal assemblies, while interactive touchscreens dive into detailed narratives. This blend of tradition and innovation helps the younger generation grasp history in a modern, memorable format.

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Making Cultural Education More Inclusive

Accessibility is at the core of the Foundation’s approach. Students from government and municipal schools, along with underprivileged families, benefit from subsidised or free tickets. The initiative also includes mobile exhibitions—vans loaded with touchscreen devices and exhibit panels—that travel to remote or underserved areas. These efforts allow people from different backgrounds to experience and learn about their culture firsthand.

Education Through Participation

To build deeper connections with history, Shivsrushti organizes creative workshops and interactive sessions. Participants can take part in modeling cannons with clay, painting banners, or enacting short stories from Shivaji Maharaj’s time. Strategic decision-making role plays allow learners to reflect on governance and administration, giving them a practical sense of leadership and historical context.

Supporting Local Youth and Artisans

The Foundation’s involvement also supports the surrounding community. Youth from nearby areas receive training as tour guides, helping them improve their communication and presentation skills. Meanwhile, artisans are employed to design and maintain exhibits using traditional techniques, keeping local arts alive and generating income. This system creates a circular benefit—enhancing the park while empowering the people connected to it.

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Encouraging Broader Philanthropic Efforts

Through its work with Shivsrushti, the Abhay Bhutada Foundation sets a powerful example of how cultural philanthropy can shape society. Their initiative shows that investing in history and heritage can strengthen national identity and encourage learning. The project invites others—individuals, companies, and foundations—to explore similar support for India’s cultural assets.

Learning from Shivaji Maharaj’s Leadership

Every feature at Shivsrushti reflects leadership principles drawn from Shivaji Maharaj’s rule. His focus on ethical governance, military innovation, and inclusive administration is showcased through various installations. These timeless values are not only historical markers but also tools to encourage discussions on good governance and civic responsibility in present times.

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Plans for Expansion and Sustainability

With the steady support of the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, Shivsrushti has the resources to prepare for future needs. The proposed additions include a digital archive for research, a performance stage for cultural events, and cultural exchange programs. These developments will help the park stay updated and relevant while continuing to inspire and educate.

A Future Built on Collaboration

The partnership between Shivsrushti and the Abhay Bhutada Foundation is structured for long-term impact. Collaborative programs with schools, universities, and cultural organisations are already being developed. These include annual heritage festivals, student scholarship opportunities, and leadership training modules. This ensures that Shivsrushti is not just a monument to the past but a space for active learning and cultural celebration.