Pune: The annual 'Garudjhep' mission, a 13-day journey on foot from Agra to Rajgad, concluded at Rajgad Fort.

The event, now in its fifth year, commemorates Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's historic escape from Aurangzeb's captivity in Agra 357 years ago.

The mission, led by Durgaveer Adv. Maruti Gole, saw participants carrying the Shivjyot (sacred flame) from Agra to Rajgad.

Upon reaching Rajgad, the flame was welcomed by local leaders with traditional ceremonies, including a Bhandara (turmeric offering).

Approximately 250 participants gathered at the fort, where devotees Vrushali and Sagar Jadhav performed the Aarti of Goddess Padmavati, followed by traditional martial arts demonstrations.

The flame was then taken to Raigad by the Rayreshwar Yuva Pratishthan from Bhor, consisting of 165 members, including 90 girls. The mission received a warm welcome at various stops, including the Zilla Parishad school in Gorhe Budruk, where students performed a play depicting Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's escape, set to be performed in Agra next year.

The journey covered a distance of 1,253 kilometers and passed through significant points such as Bhosari, Shaniwarwada, and Khanapur.

Welcoming events featured Dhol Lezim performances and traditional greetings at multiple locations, including Wadgaon Budruk, Nanded City, and Khadakwasla.

Adv. Maruti Gole, who founded the mission in 2017, stated that the aim is to keep Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's legacy alive. There is also a proposal to name the Agra-Rajgad route as the 'Shiv Smaran Highway,' currently under consideration by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari. This year's mission also supports the nomination of twelve forts associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj for global recognition.

- Inputs by Rajendrakrushna Kapse