The Maharashtra cabinet has taken a historic step by approving the renaming of Pune’s Lohegaon Airport to Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj International Airport. This decision, announced by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, has been warmly welcomed by the local community and Warkari sect followers, as it honors the revered saint’s immense contributions to society.

Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj, a 17th-century saint and poet, is renowned for his devotion to Lord Vithoba and his teachings that emphasized the importance of a righteous life and devotion to God. Born in Dehu, near Pune, his influence spread across Maharashtra through his abhangas (devotional poetry), which continue to inspire people to this day. His connection with Pune, and specifically with Lohegaon, where the airport is located, makes this renaming a fitting tribute.

A Long-Awaited Demand Fulfilled

The proposal to rename the airport has been in the works for quite some time. The local Warkari community and residents of Lohegaon have long advocated for this change, as they feel it will help preserve and promote the legacy of the saint who played a pivotal role in spreading the Bhakti movement across Maharashtra. The state cabinet’s approval has brought this demand closer to reality, as the proposal now awaits final approval from the central government.

#मंत्रिमंडळ_निर्णय

✅ लोहगाव विमानतळाचे नाव ‘जगद्गुरु संत तुकाराम महाराज आंतरराष्ट्रीय विमानतळ, पुणे’ असे करण्याचा निर्णय

✅ बालगृहे निरीक्षणगृहातील कर्मचाऱ्यांना आश्वासित प्रगती योजना : शिक्षकांना वरिष्ठ निवड श्रेणी

✅ धान उत्पादकांना दिलासा : आता प्रति क्विंटल चाळीस रुपये…

— Eknath Shinde – एकनाथ शिंदे (@mieknathshinde) September 23, 2024

Significance of the Renaming

The renaming of the airport is more than just a change in nomenclature; it is a reflection of the cultural heritage and spiritual identity of the region. By associating the airport with Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj, the state government aims to highlight the saint’s teachings and contributions. It also serves as a reminder of the rich spiritual history of Maharashtra, where saints like Sant Tukaram and Sant Dnyaneshwar have left indelible marks on the cultural landscape.

What Happens Next?

After the state cabinet’s approval, the proposal will be sent to the central government for final consent. If approved, Pune’s Lohegaon Airport will officially be known as Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj International Airport. This renaming will not only elevate the airport’s identity but also serve as a symbol of the region’s cultural and spiritual heritage for travelers from around the world.

Local Reactions and Support

The decision has received widespread support from various quarters, including political leaders and community members. Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol, who hails from Pune, expressed his joy and satisfaction over the decision. He shared the news on X, stating, “This is a proud moment for all of us. The renaming of Pune Airport to Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj International Airport is a tribute to the saint’s legacy and teachings.”

धन्यवाद, महायुती सरकार !
धन्यवाद, मा. देवेंद्रजी !

पुण्यातील आंतरराष्ट्रीय विमानतळाचे नामकरण ‘जगद़्गुरु संतश्रेष्ठ तुकाराम महाराज पुणे आंतरराष्ट्रीय विमानतळ’ असे करण्याच्या दृष्टीने पहिले पाऊल आज पडले असून आपण दिलेल्या प्रस्तावाला राज्य सरकारने मंजुरी दिली आहे. सदर प्रस्ताव हा… pic.twitter.com/vbtenDNYiD

— Murlidhar Mohol (@mohol_murlidhar) September 23, 2024

Residents of Lohegaon and the Warkari community also expressed their happiness. “This is a long-overdue recognition of Sant Tukaram Maharaj’s contribution to society. We are thrilled that the airport will now carry his name, reflecting the spiritual essence of this region,” said a local resident.

Other Decisions by the Maharashtra Cabinet

Along with the renaming, the Maharashtra cabinet has approved several other significant proposals. These include the introduction of a Guaranteed Progression Scheme for Children’s Homes Observatory staff and the inclusion of three Kunbi sub-castes in the Other Backward Classes (OBC) list. Additionally, the cabinet has sanctioned the establishment of a District and Additional Sessions Court at Junnar and the development of a Greenfield Expressway from Shirur to Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, aimed at improving connectivity and boosting regional development.

Impact on Tourism and Culture

The renaming of the airport is expected to boost tourism by highlighting the region’s spiritual heritage. Pilgrims visiting the nearby pilgrimage sites, such as the temple town of Dehu, will feel a deeper connection as they arrive at an airport named after their beloved saint. This move will also likely draw more attention to the cultural history of Maharashtra, attracting both domestic and international visitors interested in exploring the state’s rich spiritual and cultural traditions.