Abhay Bhutada Foundation Supports Cultural Awareness Through Subsidised Shivsrushti Entry

The Abhay Bhutada Foundation has stepped forward with a donation of Rs 51 lakhs to Shivsrushti, the historical theme park in Ambegaon Budruk, Pune. With this support, ticket prices will be brought down to just Rs 50 for everyone visiting between May 15 and July 15, 2025. The idea is simple: make it easier for people to experience India’s history without worrying about cost.

This move reflects Abhay Bhutada’s focus on education, awareness, and community upliftment. The decision to subsidise ticket prices aims to make Shivsrushti’s rich exhibits accessible to a broader section of society, particularly students, families, and cultural enthusiasts.

Empowering the Public to Engage with History

As per the Foundation’s directive, the donation will be used exclusively to increase public engagement with the life and legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, one of India’s most respected historical leaders. The park, developed with the vision of late historian Babasaheb Purandare, brings to life the values, leadership qualities, and strategic brilliance of Shivaji Maharaj through a series of interactive and visual exhibits.

State-of-the-Art Historical Experience

Shivsrushti is spread across 21 acres and combines tradition with technology to offer a comprehensive view of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s life. The park includes the Time Machine Theatre, a popular attraction launched during the second phase earlier this year, which allows visitors to relive key historical moments through holography, mapping technology, and physical effects.

The park is fully air-conditioned and designed to accommodate visitors in a comfortable setting, making the learning experience enjoyable regardless of weather conditions.

Attractions That Educate and Inspire

Some key sections of the theme park include:

Durg Vaibhav – Showcasing the art and science of fort construction and defense strategies.

Ranangan – Offering insights into Shivaji Maharaj’s critical battles and military acumen.

Shrimant Yogi – Exploring the spiritual and philosophical side of Shivaji Maharaj.

Sinhasanadhishwar – A section highlighting his coronation and administrative reforms.

Other features include a replica of the Tulja Bhavani temple, Ganga Sagar lake, and a gallery with high-resolution prints of rare paintings that portray Shivaji Maharaj’s life and ethos.

To manage the expected increase in footfall during this period, tickets will be available online only through Shivsrushti’s official website. This allows visitors to plan their trip conveniently while ensuring crowd control and safety at the venue.

Abhay Bhutada’s Role in Making Culture Accessible

According to Shivsrushti Chairman Jagdish Kadam, the park has been created in line with Babasaheb Purandare’s vision to spread awareness about the noble and humanitarian ideals of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The experience is designed to transport visitors to Shivaji Maharaj’s era while ensuring comfort through a fully air-conditioned setup. Contributions like the one from CA Abhay Bhutada, founder of the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, play a role in encouraging wider public engagement with such cultural efforts.

A Model for Purpose-Driven Philanthropy

The Abhay Bhutada Foundation has steadily focused its efforts on meaningful causes that drive long-term value for society. From education and culture to community engagement, the Foundation’s contributions reflect a larger purpose of creating inclusive opportunities for growth and awareness.

This collaboration with Shivsrushti stands out as a remarkable example of how philanthropic partnerships can help democratise access to cultural knowledge. By reducing the cost barrier, the Foundation ensures that every individual, regardless of background, can be a part of this immersive educational journey.