The Maharashtra government has officially approved the renaming of Pune Airport to Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj Pune International Airport. This decision honors the legacy of the revered 17th-century saint, Sant Tukaram Maharaj, who is closely linked to the region.
Key Details of the Pune Airport Renaming Proposal
The proposal to rename Pune Airport was first put forward by Murlidhar Mohol, Minister of State for Civil Aviation, in August 2024. Sant Tukaram Maharaj’s mother was originally from Lohegaon, where Pune Airport is located. This makes the renaming a meaningful tribute to the saint’s connection with the area.
The proposal was approved during a state cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. It will now be sent to the central government for final approval. Once the Union Cabinet approves, the name change will be officially announced in the Gazette of India.
Sant Tukaram Maharaj’s Legacy
Sant Tukaram Maharaj was a 17th-century Marathi saint and poet, known for his devotional songs called abhangas. His teachings focused on equality, social reform, and a casteless society. He is also credited with starting the Wari pilgrimage, which remains a significant event in Maharashtra.
Why the Pune Airport Renaming Matters
Renaming Pune Airport after Sant Tukaram Maharaj is an acknowledgment of his cultural and spiritual influence in Maharashtra. The decision reflects the government’s commitment to honoring historical figures who have contributed to society’s moral and social values.
Impact of the Name Change
The renaming of Pune Airport is expected to strengthen the cultural identity of Maharashtra. It also places a spotlight on the state’s rich spiritual heritage and Sant Tukaram Maharaj’s significant contributions to social reform and the Bhakti movement.
Government’s Motivation Behind the Renaming
The aim of this renaming is to pay tribute to Sant Tukaram Maharaj, whose teachings on equality, devotion, and social reform still resonate today. By naming the airport after him, the Maharashtra government is ensuring that future generations remember his contributions to society.
Table: Key Steps in Renaming Pune Airport
| Step | Description |
| Proposal by State | Maharashtra government approves the proposal |
| Submission to Centre | Proposal forwarded to the central government for approval |
| Union Cabinet Approval | Central government reviews and approves the renaming |
| Official Notification | New name published in the Gazette of India |
| Airport Renaming Ceremony | Final event marking the renaming of Pune Airport |
Summary of Key Events
- Maharashtra government approved renaming Pune Airport as Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj Pune International Airport.
- Sant Tukaram Maharaj was a 17th-century saint known for his poetry, social reform, and the Wari pilgrimage.
- The renaming proposal will now be forwarded to the central government for final approval.
Pune Airport is being renamed to honor Sant Tukaram Maharaj, a 17th-century saint with deep connections to the region.
The renaming proposal was put forward by Murlidhar Mohol, Minister of State for Civil Aviation.
Sant Tukaram Maharaj is known for his devotional poetry, social reforms, and promoting a casteless society.
Abhangas are devotional songs composed by Sant Tukaram Maharaj, which are still sung today.
The new name will be officially notified once the Union Cabinet approves the proposal.