Pune, Dec 29 (PTI): Paying rich tributes to Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, the ruler of the erstwhile princely state of Kolhapur who is known for his progressive, reformist policies, President Pranab Mukherjee today noted that he introduced reservation for backward classes so many years ago.

Mukherjee unveiled a statue of Shahu Maharaj at the All India Shri Shivaji Memorial Society's Kennedy Road Campus here this evening.

Speaking on this occasion, he hailed Shahu Maharaj's contributions in the fields of education, welfare of backward classes and welfare of women. He introduced 50 per cent reservations in the government services for the backward classes in his state, the President noted.

The late prince strove for equality of all citizens by providing education to all sections of society and not just upper castes, he said, adding that Shahu Maharaj was also a great social reformer who took steps to stop child marriages and laid emphasis on women's education.

"He was a sage and a king in one form," Mukherjee said.

Maharashtra Governor K Sankaranarayanan, Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan, Union Agricultural Minister Sharad Pawar among others were present on this occasion.