Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush and Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav, has urged the Centre to issue a ₹150 commemorative coin and a commemorative postage stamp to mark the 150th Prakat Din of Shri Sant Gajanan Maharaj, which will be observed on February 17, 2028.
In separate letters addressed to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Communications Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Jadhav requested the respective ministries to consider the proposal and initiate the necessary process for according national recognition to the revered saint’s legacy.
Highlighting the spiritual and cultural significance of Sant Gajanan Maharaj, Jadhav noted that the saint first appeared in Shegaon in Maharashtra’s Buldhana district in February 1878. Since then, Shegaon has emerged as one of India’s major pilgrimage destinations, drawing devotees from across the country and overseas.
The Minister said the life and teachings of Sant Gajanan Maharaj continue to inspire millions through their message of spirituality, devotion, compassion, selfless service and human welfare. He also referred to Shri Gajanan Vijay, the revered religious text chronicling the saint’s life and teachings, which holds special significance among devotees.
Jadhav further highlighted the contribution of Shri Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan, Shegaon, in areas such as education, healthcare, rural development, social welfare and humanitarian service. He said these initiatives have strengthened Shegaon’s identity as a centre of spirituality and community service, making the proposed commemorative coin and stamp a fitting tribute to the saint’s enduring legacy.
The Minister also recalled President Droupadi Murmu’s visit to Shegaon on February 25, 2026, when she inaugurated the National Arogya Fair organised under the aegis of the Ministry of Ayush. Jadhav said President Murmu’s visit further underscored Shegaon’s growing importance as a hub of spirituality, culture and public service.
Expressing confidence that the proposal would receive favourable consideration, Jadhav said issuing the commemorative coin and postage stamp would honour the faith and sentiments of millions of devotees while providing national recognition to the spiritual and cultural contributions of Sant Gajanan Maharaj.
