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Sword of Raghuji Bhonsle Unveiled in Mumbai: ‘A Bridge Between Generations,' Says CM Fadnavis
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Nagpur: The historic sword of Shrimant Raje Raghuji Bhonsle, founder of Nagpur's Bhonsle dynasty, was unveiled in Mumbai on Monday in a grand ceremony attended by chief minister
Devendra Fadnavis
, cultural affairs minister Ashish Shelar, and descendant Shrimant Mudhoji Raje Bhonsle.
The event, held at PL Deshpande Maharashtra Kala Academy, drew a large gathering of citizens, scholars, and political leaders.
Speaking on the occasion, chief minister Fadnavis said the sword was more than a recovered relic — it was a vital link between Maharashtra's glorious past and its new generation. "This sword connects us with our history. Today's youth can understand how our Hindavi Swarajya expanded under the leadership of stalwarts like Raghuji Bhonsle.
The sword will also travel to Nagpur and other places, ensuring this chapter of history reaches far and wide," he said.
CM Fadnavis also recalled how minister Shelar had asked him about the bidding price and process. "I told him that whatever the cost, we will ensure the sword comes to us. However, I did wonder if the bidding might spiral beyond what the govt could afford, but I was certain that in Maharashtra there are people who would step forward, contribute to the state, and make sure the priceless relic returns home," he said.
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Fadnavis stressed the valorous history of Nagpur Bhonsles must be told to as many people as possible. "After Aurangzeb attacked the Jagannath Puri temple, it was Nagpur's Bhonsle royals who ensured the rathyatra continued. Not only that, they also guarded the shrine for several years," he said. "This is not the end, but part of a continuous effort to reclaim our cultural pride," he said.
Sources confirmed Mudhoji Bhonsle, CM Fadnavis, and minister Shelar held a discussion after the programme on bringing the sword to Nagpur.
The relic is expected to arrive in the city in a month or two. Shelar and Mudhoji too interacted for half an hour, deliberating on the history of the Bhonsles and the Hadpakya Ganpati festival, which has been celebrated in the region for almost 240 years. Sources added Shelar also explored the possibility of declaring Hadpakya Ganpati a state festival.
Shelar described the sword's return as a moment of "cultural rebirth."
He said, "This is not just an object, but a symbol of Swarajya. Raghuji Raje Bhonsle expanded the Maratha empire and return of his sword is a reminder of our strength, and an inspiration for generations to come."
Shrimant Mudhoji Raje Bhonsle, direct descendant of Raghuji Raje, said, "I still remember how the CM personally replied to my message at 1:50am when I wrote to him about the auction. The sword was taken abroad during the reign of Mudhoji Bhonsle II, and I am grateful it has now returned during my lifetime, as Mudhoji Bhonsle III. For this, I will remain eternally thankful to the state govt." The ceremony also saw the release of the book Marathyacha Darara, a book inspired on the life of Raghuji Raje Bhonsle-1.
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