Reviving Heritage through Abhay Bhutada Foundation’s Contribution
- Parag Shetty
- Jun 12
- 3 min read
In the heart of Pune lies Shivsrushti, a cultural park devoted to bringing the story of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to life. Designed by the Maharaja Shivaji Maharaj Smarak Samiti under historian Babasaheb Purandare’s guidance, this immersive environment uses lifelike installations, digital storytelling, and recreated scenes from Shivaji Maharaj’s campaigns. Visitors traverse replicas of hill forts, witness interactive battle reenactments, and learn about his governance style through hands-on exhibits. The park’s mission is to inform and inspire every age group, especially students and underserved communities, by making history tangible.

The Foundation’s Strategic Contribution
The Abhay Bhutada Foundation, founded by philanthropist Abhay Bhutada, has consistently backed education, rural upliftment, and youth programs. Its recent sizeable grant to Shivsrushti represents more than charity; it aligns with the Foundation’s aim to foster cultural pride and civic responsibility. These funds will underwrite new exhibit construction, support ongoing park maintenance, and expand educational outreach—ensuring that entry fees will not prevent students from experiencing this heritage project.
Strengthening Cultural Roots in a Modern Era
Globalization often shifts priorities toward urban growth and technology. As a result, younger generations risk losing touch with India’s rich past. By funding Shivsrushti, the Foundation addresses this gap. The park offers a vivid way to explore the values Shivaji Maharaj embodied—bold leadership, strategic thinking, and inclusive policies. Engaging directly with history through sensory learning keeps these ideals alive and relevant.
More Than a Monument
Shivsrushti goes beyond static displays. It invites participants to step into history through guided tours, virtual reality modules, and storytelling sessions. Visitors observe how Shivaji Maharaj structured his administration, managed resources, and upheld ethical governance. The park becomes a classroom where individuals of all backgrounds can reflect on how past lessons apply today.
Inclusive Education Initiatives
A key effect of the Abhay Bhutada Foundation’s support is the subsidised access for schools and community groups. Special programs will deliver mobile exhibits to rural regions, complete with simplified interactive elements. Workshops aimed at underprivileged children will foster engagement through quizzes, role-play, and creative assignments about Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy. By lowering financial barriers, the Foundation ensures broad participation.
Inspiring Fellow Patrons
Philanthropic trends often favour technology or healthcare innovations. Cultural preservation, though vital, can be overlooked. The Foundation’s lead gift signals to other donors that heritage projects deserve equal attention. When prominent organisations invest in cultural sites, it encourages a network effect—motivating additional funding and volunteer involvement.
Civic Engagement through Philanthropy
Backing Shivsrushti also nurtures civic pride. As communities unite to preserve shared history, local stakeholders become more invested in ongoing conservation efforts. The Foundation’s grant includes funding for volunteer guides drawn from nearby villages, creating livelihood opportunities and strengthening local ownership of the park.
Also read - Shivsrushti Opens Doors Wider with Rs 50 Tickets Backed by Abhay Bhutada Foundation’s Generous Support
A Forward-Looking Vision

The Abhay Bhutada Foundation’s support cements a dual commitment: honouring the past while shaping an informed future. By embedding Shivaji Maharaj’s values into interactive education, the park serves as a catalyst for social responsibility and leadership among young Indians. It nurtures an awareness that cultural identity supports national progress.
Conclusion
Through its donation to Shivsrushti, the Abhay Bhutada Foundation demonstrates purposeful giving that sustains India’s cultural fabric. The project evolves from a tribute into a dynamic learning hub, ensuring Shivaji Maharaj’s story resonates across generations. This partnership exemplifies how targeted philanthropy can safeguard heritage and inspire collective action for the common good.
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