Satara (Maharashtra)

The birth anniversary of Rajmata Jijau, the mother of Maratha warrior King Chhatrapati Shivaji, who was a great influence on her son,  falls on January 12. In a compelling gesture of national unity, the organisation 'Me Muslim Mavala Chatrapatincha' (I am the Muslim Soldier of Chhatrapati) from Satara has demanded that this day be celebrated across India as 'National Mother's Day'.

The organisation submitted a detailed memorandum to the District Collector and the Member of Parliament.

The memorandum states that Rajmata Jijau was not just the mother of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, but a symbol of maternal power that gave direction to the entire nation. It was through her upbringing and values that Shivaji Maharaj became a ruler known for justice, secularism, and humanity.

The statement highlights that Rajmata Jijau instilled in her son the values of respecting women, fighting fearlessly against injustice, governing for the welfare of the people, and respecting all religions. The sensitivity Shivaji Maharaj showed towards women, and the honour he accorded to saints, soldiers, and subjects of all faiths were a direct result of Jijau's teachings.

Sadiq Sheikh, founder of the 'Me Muslim Mavala Chatrapatincha' organisation, said, "Rajmata Jijau gave birth to a great man like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and instilled noble values in him. Through those values, she taught society the great lesson of equality of all religions and respect for women. She not only championed the honour of women in her own kingdom but also ensured respect for the women of the enemy camp.

Me Muslim Mavala Chatrapatincha handing over the letter to minister Shambhuraj Desai

“There cannot be a greater example of women's honour in the country than this. We have demanded that this day be celebrated nationally, and since Satara was the capital of the Maratha Empire, the Satara Municipal Council should also officially celebrate it as Mother's Day."

The organisation asked the District Collector to forward this demand to the President, Prime Minister, Chief Minister, and Deputy Chief Minister.

The organization emphasized that in today's times, when there is a dire need for respecting motherhood, women's safety, social harmony, and national integrity, celebrating Rajmata Jijau's birthday as 'National Mother's Day' is the need of the hour. They expressed confidence that this would inspire mothers and sisters across all religions, instil good values in the new generation, and strengthen nation-building based on Shivaji's thoughts.

Tourism Minister Shambhuraj Desai, who is elected from Satara, took cognisance of this demand and promised to present it before the Chief Minister and the Cabinet.

He also clarified that if there are no hurdles regarding the Code of Conduct, Rajmata Jijau's birthday will be celebrated as 'Mother's Day' in the Satara district.

District Collector and Satara Journalist Association President Vinod Kulkarni also termed the demand as valid and promised to follow up on it.

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On this occasion, along with founder Sadiq Sheikh, activists Azhar Maner, Arbaz Sheikh, Arif Khan, Shahrukh Sheikh, Raju Mustafa, Haji Nadaf, Bashir Mulani, and many others were present in large numbers. All those present expressed the belief that this demand is not limited to just one day but will be a historic step honouring motherhood, humanity, and national unity.