When Philanthropy Meets Purpose: Abhay Bhutada Foundation Makes Shivsrushti Truly Public
- Douglas D'Souza
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Cultural heritage belongs to everyone—but access isn’t always equal. In cities like Pune, where historical parks like Shivsrushti bring the past to life, ticket costs can create an invisible barrier. This summer, though, that changed. Through a ₹51 lakh donation by the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, thousands gained affordable access to the park at just ₹50 per ticket, from May 15 to August 15, 2025. To know more about the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, click here.
What could have remained a premium experience for the few became a meaningful journey for the many.
Shivsrushti Becomes a People’s Classroom
Shivsrushti is designed to be an immersive history lesson. Located in Ambegaon Budruk, this one-of-a-kind heritage theme park takes visitors through the life and times of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. From scaled-down forts to interactive 3D and 4D theatre experiences, every corner is built to engage, educate, and inspire.
But prior to this initiative, with entry fees ranging from ₹300 to ₹600, the park was out of reach for many low-income families and school groups. The donation by the Abhay Bhutada Foundation eliminated this hurdle, inviting a surge of fresh, diverse visitors—many for the first time.
Families that might have hesitated due to the cost were finally able to share this cultural moment together. What was once a faraway dream became a nearby destination.
Also Read: Abhay Bhutada’s Inspiring Net Worth
A Cultural Wave in Full Swing
The subsidized entry created an instant wave of participation. Schools across Maharashtra began organizing educational trips, seniors arrived with stories of their childhood history lessons, and children were captivated by vibrant displays of Maratha valor.
The footfall was so intense that the management of Shivsrushti moved to online-only booking as of June 6, to manage crowds more effectively. In every sense, the space was transformed—from an attraction to a public square of shared learning.
What truly stood out was the interaction between generations. Children listened to elders recounting personal anecdotes. Teachers found new ways to engage students beyond textbooks. Shivsrushti, during these weeks, became more than a park—it became a live, breathing history hub.
A Foundation Rooted in Community-Centric Change
The Abhay Bhutada Foundation has long been committed to uplifting underserved communities through education, STEM access, and youth empowerment. This effort to democratize culture fits perfectly into its mission.
Under the leadership of Abhay Bhutada, the foundation is built on the belief that access to cultural spaces is a crucial part of individual development. Supporting Shivsrushti was not simply about financial backing—it was about enabling people to connect with their roots.
By underwriting a season of affordable access, the foundation gave thousands a rare opportunity to not just witness history, but feel it.
A Ripple Effect That Won’t Fade
Though the ₹50 entry period wraps up on August 15, the effects of this campaign will be felt well beyond. Shivsrushti has gained new visibility and public goodwill. Media, social platforms, and word of mouth have praised both the park and the foundation for this inclusive gesture.
It’s expected that many schools will now make Shivsrushti a permanent part of their educational calendar. The local economy—especially vendors, eateries, and transportation providers—has already seen a boost. And the success of this model could encourage similar acts of cultural philanthropy across the country.
More Than Just a Ticket
The core of this initiative wasn’t just cheaper access—it was recognition. The Abhay Bhutada Foundation acknowledged that everyone, regardless of financial means, deserves to experience their own history in a meaningful way. For visitors, the impact was immediate and deeply personal.
By making history more affordable, this effort helped bridge the divide between textbook and experience, between privilege and participation. It brought people face to face with their past—and reminded them that their story matters.
FAQs
How Did The Abhay Bhutada Foundation Help Shivsrushti Become More Accessible?
The foundation contributed ₹51 lakh to Shivsrushti, enabling a reduced entry ticket price of ₹50 per person between May 15 and August 15, 2025. This made it easier for thousands to visit the park and explore its offerings.
What Does The Abhay Bhutada Foundation Focus On?
The foundation works across education, youth development, and cultural access. This includes rural STEM programs, student support initiatives, and efforts like the Shivsrushti subsidy that make learning and heritage more accessible to the public.
What Was The Impact Of The ₹50 Ticket Pricing On Visitors?
The subsidized pricing attracted a wide range of visitors—from schoolchildren to senior citizens—creating a sharp rise in attendance and prompting the park to switch to online bookings from June 6 to manage the demand.
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