Public Can Now Explore Shivaji Maharaj’s Legacy at Lower Cost Thanks to Abhay Bhutada Foundation

Starting May 15, 2025, visitors to Shivsrushti, the expansive heritage-themed park in Pune’s Ambegaon Budruk, will be able to enter by paying just Rs 50 per ticket. This low-cost access will be available until July 15, 2025, and is made possible by a generous Rs 51 lakh donation from the Abhay Bhutada Foundation.

The donation has been directed entirely toward subsidising entry for the general public. The aim is to bring more people, particularly school children, families, and history enthusiasts, closer to India’s historical roots in a way that is engaging and educational.

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What Shivsrushti Has to Offer

Shivsrushti is not just a park—it is a thoughtfully designed historical experience built on 21 acres. Its purpose is to highlight the life, values, and leadership of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj through a series of visual, educational, and interactive exhibits.

The park includes several distinct zones, each crafted to reflect a specific chapter in Shivaji Maharaj’s life and legacy. These exhibits are supported by modern display tools, such as holography, mapping technology, and cinematic sound, offering a rich and immersive journey through time.

Among its highlights is the Time Machine Theatre, a unique attraction that walks visitors through key historical events using detailed visual storytelling.

Learning Through Visual Exploration

Some of the most popular features at Shivsrushti include:

• Durg Vaibhav: This zone explains how Shivaji Maharaj designed and used forts for defence and governance.
  
  

• Ranangan: A display that focuses on his military vision and the key battles that defined his era.
  
  

• Shrimant Yogi: A section that introduces the personal, spiritual side of Shivaji Maharaj.
  
  

• Sinhasanadhishwar: Highlights his coronation and his contributions to administrative reforms.
  
  

Visitors can also explore a replica of the Tulja Bhavani temple, enjoy the tranquil Ganga Sagar lake, and view rare artwork that brings the Maratha legacy to life.

To manage expected demand, all tickets must be booked online via the official Shivsrushti website, ensuring smooth scheduling and safe visitor flow.

In the Spirit of Purposeful Giving

In the middle of this collaborative effort stands Abhay Bhutada, a member of the Poonawalla Group, and the founder of the Abhay Bhutada Foundation. Known for his commitment to education and cultural awareness, Bhutada continues to support initiatives that bring practical value to communities.

His Foundation’s involvement in this project is not limited to financial assistance—it is about helping ideas take shape in ways that are inclusive and publicly beneficial. By reducing the cost of entry, the Foundation ensures that cultural exposure is not reserved for a privileged few.

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Designed for Public Understanding

According to Shivsrushti Chairman Jagdish Kadam, the park was built following the vision of historian Babasaheb Purandare, who believed in educating future generations about Shivaji Maharaj’s enduring values. This subsidy allows that vision to reach further and create impact where it matters most—among everyday citizens.

For young learners especially, such an environment serves as a meaningful supplement to textbooks. The exhibits at Shivsrushti are presented in a way that simplifies complex events, making them easier to understand and remember. This makes school trips more valuable and helps parents introduce their children to India’s historical figures in a hands-on setting.

Abhay Bhutada Foundation Enriches Learning Opportunities

By actively supporting public cultural spaces, the Foundation creates more than just access—it fosters a culture of curiosity and civic pride. This initiative adds to the Foundation’s existing work in the areas of education, community development, and social responsibility.

Partnerships between public projects and private donors often shape the reach and quality of experiences like Shivsrushti. When support is rooted in purpose, it opens the door for impactful learning. In this case, the Foundation’s contribution removes a financial hurdle, giving thousands of families the chance to explore their heritage together.

Why These Visits Matter

Visiting spaces like Shivsrushti allows individuals to build a deeper sense of identity and respect for the values that helped shape the country. For students, such visits help bring lessons to life. For adults, it can be a journey of rediscovery.

With interactive storytelling, well-researched exhibits, and a calm, air-conditioned atmosphere, the park provides an experience that appeals to people of all ages. The reduced price during summer also makes it a smart and meaningful option for group outings.

Creating Long-Lasting Public Value

Efforts like these help keep cultural learning relevant in a fast-moving world. They show how small changes—like affordable tickets—can make a big difference in building awareness and connection. The Foundation’s backing ensures that more people can participate in something they might have otherwise missed.

Over the two-month offer period, the park is likely to see a significant increase in attendance, driven by its affordability and the quality of its educational content. This growth is not only positive for the park but also reflects a growing interest in local history.

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A Summer of Learning and Connection

The timing of this initiative couldn’t be better. As students enter their summer break and families look for meaningful activities, Shivsrushti opens its doors to all with simplified access. The Abhay Bhutada Foundation’s support has made this possible—not just by donating funds, but by building a pathway for shared learning.

Through such steps, the Foundation continues to encourage curiosity, reflection, and collective appreciation for India’s heritage.