KARIMNAGAR, JANUARY 01, 2025: The 207th Shaurya Din (Valour Day) was celebrated on Wednesday at Koregaon Bhima Vijaystambh (victory pillar) in the Pune district of Maharashtra state attracting an overwhelming crowd of locals as well as people from across the country.
The historic event marks the victory of the British army over the Peshwa forces 207 years ago, with the bravery of Mahar soldiers playing a crucial role in the British victory. The Victory Pillar stands as a symbol of the triumph of the Mahar soldiers who fought alongside the British against the Peshwa forces in 1818.
Samatha Sainik dal marshals Eluka Anjaneyulu and Mamidi Vidyasagar from Thimmapur mandal in Karimnagar district from Telangana state visited the Victory pillar and offered tributes to the Mahar soldiers as part of Shourya Diwas on January 1, 2025.
The Battle of Koregaon Bhima, fought on January 1, 1818, holds immense historical importance. The British forces, supported by Mahar soldiers, defeated the Peshwa army in this battle, and to commemorate the victory, the British erected the Vijay Pillar at Koregaon Bhima. This event has since become a key symbol of Dalit pride and resistance, with Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar highlighting its significance when he visited the site on January 1, 1927. His visit to the Victory Pillar marked the beginning of the annual Shaurya Diwas celebrations.
Celebrating the Legacy of Soldiers
Every year, on January 1, Valour Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm by millions of people who come from all corners of Maharashtra and beyond. They gather to honour the sacrifices made by the soldiers and to remember their role in the historic victory at Koregaon Bhima.
The celebrations continue to grow in scale, with devotees offering flowers and paying respects to the Victory Pillar, which stands as a proud reminder of the bravery and unity that led to the British victory. The event is not only a remembrance of the battle but also a day of social and political significance for the followers of Dr. Ambedkar, who view the battle as a symbol of empowerment and resistance against oppression.
The 207th Shaurya Day at Koregaon Bhima serves as both a celebration of history and a powerful expression of Dalit pride. As lakhs of Ambedkar followers gather in unity, the event highlights the ongoing relevance of this historic battle and its lasting impact on the social fabric of India. The annual gathering continues to inspire generations, keeping alive the spirit of equality, justice, and remembrance.
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