No processions or big gatherings should be organized on the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on February 19 in view of COVID-19 situation, guidelines issued by the Maharashtra government said on Thursday. Shiv Jayanti, the birth anniversary of the iconic 17th century ruler, is celebrated with great fervor in the state.

But looking at the pandemic situation, the government wants simple celebrations this year. Shivaji Maharaj was born on February 19, 1630, on the Shivneri fort in Pune district and people gather on that and other forts in large numbers on the midnight of February 18 every year, the official statement noted.