Abhay Bhutada Foundation Expands Reach with Scholarships and Rs 51 Lakh Shivsrushti Donation
- Gita Kapoor
- Jun 30
- 4 min read
Education and cultural pride form the backbone of any strong community. The Abhay Bhutada Foundation’s recent efforts in Pune show how thoughtful action can support both. By partnering with the Maheshwari Vidya Pracharak Mandal (MVPM) for a targeted scholarship program and backing the Shivsrushti theme park with generous funding, the Foundation is proving that bridging learning and legacy can happen side by side — and reach more people when done with care.
Supporting Maheshwari Students to Reach Higher
In October 2024, the Abhay Bhutada Foundation joined hands with MVPM to recognize and reward students from the Maheshwari community. This partnership ensured that deserving students staying in the MVPM hostel would get the support they need to continue their studies with confidence.
The scholarship ceremony, held on 11 October at Shivaji Nagar, Pune, awarded 25 students with INR 1 lakh each. Ten of these awards went to students who have demonstrated strong academic performance, while fifteen were reserved for those from families facing economic hardships. This mix keeps the focus not just on rewarding talent but also on removing financial roadblocks.
The selection was handled with care. Applications opened online from 15th to 31st July 2024. A special committee with members from both MVPM and the Abhay Bhutada Foundation reviewed each application in early August. Shortlisted students then faced interviews before the final list was published on 16th August. The aim was to ensure genuine, deserving students are celebrated for their effort and potential.
Making Maratha History Accessible with Shivsrushti
Beyond classrooms, the Foundation also believes that cultural history should be shared with as many people as possible. In May 2025, the Abhay Bhutada Foundation donated Rs 51 lakh to Shivsrushti — Asia’s largest theme park dedicated to the life and contributions of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
With this donation, entry tickets have been priced at just Rs 50 for a two-month window from May 15 to July 15, 2025. This has made it possible for more families, students, and tourists to discover Maratha history without worrying about high ticket costs.
Shivsrushti spans 21 acres and brings stories of Shivaji Maharaj’s life alive through modern storytelling techniques. The Time Machine Theatre uses holography and 3D mapping to recreate key moments in history. Zones like Durg Vaibhav and Ranangan explain the science of forts and the brilliance of Maratha battles, while Shrimant Yogi and Sinhasanadhishwar introduce visitors to Shivaji Maharaj’s leadership and governance. For many first-time visitors, this is not just a day out — it’s an unforgettable lesson in history.
A Broader Vision Rooted in Impact
This blend of supporting students and preserving cultural pride is exactly what Abhay Bhutada wants his Foundation to stand for. From distributing STEM kits to rural schools under the “LearnByDoing” initiative to funding scholarships and making local history more affordable, the Foundation’s focus is always practical and people-first.
For communities that often face challenges accessing quality education or cultural resources, these efforts make a real difference. They remind people that learning is not limited to books alone — it includes the stories, values, and pride that shape how we see ourselves and our society.
Combining Practical Education and Local Pride
Abhay Bhutada’s work shows that meaningful philanthropy doesn’t need to choose between modern education and heritage. Instead, both can grow together. Young students can get the financial help they need to keep studying. Families can visit places like Shivsrushti and pass on important history to the next generation.
By keeping education and culture connected, the Abhay Bhutada Foundation is making sure that practical support goes hand in hand with strong roots.
Conclusion
With every scholarship and cultural donation, the Abhay Bhutada Foundation shows what purposeful giving looks like. It helps young people aim higher, supports families, and makes sure that history isn’t locked behind expensive tickets. Together, these actions are proof that real impact happens when education and heritage are made truly open for all.
FAQs
Q1: How many students received scholarships from the Abhay Bhutada Foundation and MVPM?
Twenty-five students were awarded INR 1 lakh each — ten for academic excellence and fifteen for financial need.
Q2: What is Shivsrushti and why is it special?
Shivsrushti is Asia’s largest theme park celebrating Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s life. It combines history with modern tech to teach visitors about the Maratha Empire in an engaging way.
Q3: How did the Abhay Bhutada Foundation help Shivsrushti visitors?
By donating Rs 51 lakh, the Foundation helped reduce the entry ticket to Rs 50 for two months, allowing more families and students to visit.
Q4: What other initiatives does the Foundation run?
The Foundation supports STEM education for rural students through its “LearnByDoing”
program, among other educational and cultural projects.
Q5: Who is Abhay Bhutada?
Abhay Bhutada is the founder and chairman of the Abhay Bhutada Foundation. He is known for supporting practical education, community welfare, and projects that connect people to India’s rich heritage.
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