Maratha leaders said the “unnecessary controversy” over the celebration of Shiv Jayanti twice a year should now end as it “didn’t suit the reputation of the warrior king”. Shantaram Kunjir, one of the leaders of the Maratha Kranti Morcha, said, “The Maratha community has always celebrated February 19 as Shiv Jayanti. Saying the Maratha community formed 35 per cent of the population of Maharashtra, Kunjir said, “They should heed our voice…”. In the last 17 years, Sena has never participated in government functions held to mark Shiv Jayanti on February 19. Instead, it has organised grand celebrations on Shiv Jayanti, on dates decided as per the Hindu calendar.

Source: Indian Express August 09, 2017 22:07 UTC