The Maharashtra Assembly has unanimously approved a resolution to rename Pune’s Lohegaon Airport as Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj International Airport. This decision, made in recognition of the revered 17th-century saint, marks a significant moment in the state’s efforts to honor its rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
Sant Tukaram Maharaj, known for his devotional poetry and influence on the Bhakti movement, holds a special place in the hearts of millions. The proposed renaming aims to celebrate his legacy and further connect the people of Maharashtra to their spiritual roots. The resolution passed by the assembly will now be forwarded to the Ministry of Civil Aviation for final approval and implementation.
Pune, known as the cultural capital of Maharashtra, is home to a large number of religious and historical landmarks, and this move to rename the airport is seen as a tribute to the city’s deep spiritual traditions. The renaming of Lohegaon Airport to Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj International Airport aligns with the growing trend in India to recognize and honor notable historical and cultural figures by naming key infrastructure after them.
Once implemented, the new name is expected to boost local pride and may also attract more visitors to Pune, further enhancing the city’s status as a major cultural, educational, and commercial hub. The renaming process will now await approval from the central government, with anticipation growing among residents and devotees of Sant Tukaram Maharaj.
This decision comes at a time when several states in India are focusing on acknowledging influential figures from their history and culture by renaming public spaces and facilities in their honor. The renaming of Pune’s airport is part of this broader effort to preserve and promote India’s rich cultural heritage through modern infrastructure.