Historic Forts Emerge as Models for Sustainable Living at Shivsrushti's Earth Day Event

Drawing on the principles established by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Rootskills and Shivsrushti Historic Theme Park jointly organised their first Earth Day event, bringing together cultural heritage and environmental sustainability. The occasion demonstrated how traditional knowledge systems remain relevant to contemporary ecological challenges.

A central feature of the gathering was a competition centred on the theme "Forts as living examples of harmony with nature, efficient resource management, and sustainable living." Conceived by Bhavisha Buddhadeo, Rootskills' founder, the competition invited participants to examine how ancient fortifications embody sustainable approaches—including water management systems and judicious use of natural resources. Trustees Jagdish Kadam and Vinet Kuber commended the theme's thoughtful design. Kuber received saplings of Parijat, Sonchafa, and Belpatra from the Rootskills team in recognition of his support.

The event drew participation from business professionals, students, academics, and conservation specialists, all contributing substantive insights on the theme. Rootskills positioned the initiative as a form of hands-on learning that bridges heritage education with pressing sustainability issues.

India Post (Dak Seva Jan Seva) contributed meaningfully through a postcard-writing station and custom post box installation. The activity served as a digital detox experience, reviving the practice of handwritten correspondence and engaging participants across age groups.

Vasantiben Gokani and Dr. Anindita Chaudhuri served as judges, overseeing a rigorous evaluation process. Hridaya Sakore of Podar International School, Ambegaon (BK), claimed first place in the offline student category. In the online student division, Urvi Patil and Ananya Upadhyay finished second. Jyoti earned top honours among educators, while Taruja, a retired Vice Principal of a government school, won the poem recitation segment. Students from MIT School of Humanities at MIT Art, Design & Technology University (MIT-ADTU) in Pune visited the venue for educational purposes and prevailed in group competitions. Senior Administrator Anil Pawar presented awards to the winners.

Environmentalists and students Taksheel and Jaysheel Buddhadeo donated indoor plants, native tree seeds, and outdoor saplings to the park. Rootskills distributed bamboo-based products and sustainable stationery items to winners, underscoring its commitment to eco-conscious practices.

The inaugural Earth Day programme at Shivsrushti demonstrates the potential for heritage sites to catalyse sustainable innovation and living practices. Rootskills acknowledged all partners and participants involved and indicated its intention to organise similar programmes moving forward.