Maharashtra govt reclaims sword of Maratha warrior Raghuji Bhosale at auction in London
The state government has reclaimed the iconic sword of legendary Maratha warrior Raghuji Bhosale, founder of the Nagpur-based Bhosale dynasty and a prominent Maratha general during the reign of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, at an auction in London, Minister of Cultural Affairs Ashish Shelar said on Tuesday.
This marks the first time Maharashtra has reclaimed a historical artifact of such immense cultural value at an international auction.
The news of the historic sword being put up for auction in London reached Maharashtra just Monday, immediately spurring the state government into action. Shelar swiftly coordinated with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to ensure the state got back the sword.
Accordingly Shelar entrusted Vikas Kharge, Additional Chief Secretary in the Cultural Affairs Department, to liaise with embassy officials and oversee the acquisition process. Both Fadnavis and Shelar worked late into the night, coordinating efforts, sources said.
The state successfully won the bid with a total expenditure, including handling, transport and insurance, amounting to Rs 47.15 lakh.
Speaking to media persons on Tuesday, Shelar said this is indeed a moment of pride for Maharashtra under the leadership of Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar.
Raghuji Bhosale I (1695–February 14, 1755) was a distinguished Maratha general under Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj. Impressed by his bravery and military acumen, he was honoured with the title 'Senasaheb Subha' by Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj. Raghuji led pivotal military campaigns in Bengal in 1745 and 1755, greatly expanding the Maratha Empire's territory into Bengal and Odisha. His influence also extended to regions such as Chanda, Chhattisgarh and Sambalpur.
Raghuji's successful campaigns in South India, which resulted in the defeat of the Nawabs of Kurnool and Cuddapah, further solidified Maratha dominance in the region. Widely regarded as one of the most valiant Maratha warriors of the 18th century, Raghuji Bhosale's legacy endures in Indian history. The Nagpur Bhosales ruled over a mineral-rich region abundant in iron and copper, which were skilfully used to craft both everyday items and formidable weapons. The quality and artistry of the weaponry crafted by the Bhosales are renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship.
The sword auctioned in London exemplifies the 'firangi' style of Maratha weaponry — characterised by a straight, single-edged European blade paired with a locally crafted Mulheri hilt, beautifully adorned with intricate gold inlay. The blade bears the European manufacturer's mark and is inscribed with a gold-inlaid Devanagari script near the hilt, reading 'Shrimant Raghoji Bhosale Senasaheb Subha Firang'. This inscription suggests the sword was either created for Raghuji Bhosale or was used by him personally. The hilt is further embellished with koftgiri gold inlay, and the grip is wrapped in green cloth, adding to its unique beauty.
This sword holds immense historical significance for several reasons. Most medieval Indian weapons either lacked decorative detailing or did not bear the maker's or owner's name, making this sword a rare and remarkable exception. Also, the European-made blade reflects the active global arms trade in 18th-century India, emphasising the intersection of Indian and European craftsmanship.
Following the 1817 Battle of Sitabuldi, where the East India Company defeated the Nagpur Bhosales, the British looted the Bhosale treasury, seizing priceless treasures, ornaments and weapons. Experts believe that this sword may have been a part of that war loot or a gift presented to the British in the aftermath of the battle.
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