Latest news with #HindaviSwarajya
Time of India
4 hours ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Sword of Raghuji Bhonsle Unveiled in Mumbai: ‘A Bridge Between Generations,' Says CM Fadnavis
1 2 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. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 3 Lakh+ Have Transformed Their Smile Toothsi by MakeO Book Now Undo 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. Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays , public holidays , and current gold rates and silver prices in your area.
Indian Express
06-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
‘Khalid Ka Shivaji': Row over Marathi film in Maharashtra, how BJP has reacted
A Marathi film titled 'Khalid Ka Shivaji' has ignited a controversy in Maharashtra, drawing protests from right-wing groups who allege that it distorts the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The protest against the film led to the disruption of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis's speech at a government function on Tuesday. BJP ministers have now talked about reconsidering the censor board clearance granted to the film. At the heart of the dispute lies a long-standing ideological debate in Maharashtra on whether Shivaji Maharaj was primarily a Hindu warrior-king or a secular, inclusive ruler who stood against oppression regardless of religion. Khalid Ka Shivaji has been made by director Raj Pritam More, who in 2019 won the National Film Award for his Marathi film Khissa under the 'Best Debut Non-Feature Film of a Director' category. His latest film, which is to be released this week, is about a Muslim boy who learns about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj through life experiences. The 2.3-minute trailer of the film, which has caused offence, shows the story of a boy named Khalid living in Vidarbha's Wardha district, focusing on his life experiences as a student as well as his admiration of Shivaji Maharaj. The movie, from publicly available footage, shows Khalid being taunted by his classmates as Afzal Khan, the Adilshahi general killed by Shivaji Maharaj and much hated in Maharashtra. A voiceover in the film talks about 35 per cent of Shivaji Maharaj's soldiers being Muslims, 11 of his bodyguards being from the community, and Shivaji Maharaj having built a mosque for his soldiers in Raigad, the seat of the Maratha throne. 'A true king is someone who does not believe in religion. A true king is someone who follows the religion of the whole world,' a character is heard saying in the movie. The movie also shows the character of Khalid dressing up as Shivaji Maharaj. Why are members of the right wing upset with the movie? The tussle over the portrayal of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Maharashtra is a long-running ideological conflict between secular-progressive groups and right-wing Hindutva organisations. The dispute is mainly over what Shivaji Maharaj stood for, and if he should be remembered as a Hindutva icon, or as a secular, inclusive, anti-caste symbol of justice and regional self-rule. Right-wing groups have often portrayed Shivaji Maharaj an early symbol of Hindu nationalism, resisting 'foreign' Islamic rule and establishing a Hindu state (Hindavi Swarajya). Secular thinkers, historians, and leftists, however, have challenged this description, arguing that Shivaji Maharaj was not anti-Muslim, but anti-oppression. Veteran Communist leader Govind Pansare, in his widely read book Shivaji Kon Hota? (Who Was Shivaji?), portrayed Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as a secular, inclusive, and anti-caste ruler. Pansare was killed in February 2015 near his home in Kolhapur. One of the central aspects of Pansare's narrative was Shivaji's treatment of Muslims. He highlighted that Shivaji Maharaj employed several Muslims in high-ranking positions within his army and administration, and cited several historical incidents where Shivaji Maharaj respected mosques and religious sites. What do the right wing groups want and how has the state reacted? On Tuesday, two men shouted slogans demanding a ban on the movie at the Maharashtra State Film Awards function in the presence of Fadnavis. As the CM rose to speak, the two protesters stood up in the auditorium, holding placards and shouting that 'distortion of history' should be stopped. Fadnavis halted his address and told the duo he had heard their demands, requesting them not to disrupt the programme. As they continued to shout, the police whisked them out of the auditorium. Hindu Mahasangh, based in Maharashtra's Pune, has lodged its objections with both the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and the film's producers. 'The film attempts to distort the history of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The producers have depicted him as secular, which we find unacceptable. If the film is not banned, we will protest at the theatres where it is shown,' said Anand Dave, chairman of the Hindu Mahasangh. 'We urge all theatres in Pune not to screen this film. If it is shown in rural areas, we will visit cinema halls and hold lectures on the true history of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj,' he said. Dave further claimed that the film tries to change the historical narrative. 'Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj belonged to us, to Hindus, and Marathas. Our objection is to the very idea of Khalid Ka Shivaji,' he stated. The Maharashtra government, meanwhile, has said it will seek the cancellation of the CBFC certification of the film. 'We understand the emotions of the people who have submitted their objections regarding the film. The CBFC has given certification to this film. I have asked… The Principal Secretary of the Department of Cultural Affairs has been directed to reconsider the CBFC certification for the film. Hurting public sentiments and misrepresenting history is something that is unacceptable and I would ask the CBFC to reconsider its decision,' Maharashtra Culture minister Ashish Shelar said.
Indian Express
01-08-2025
- General
- Indian Express
‘A ritual for many': this is what drives over a thousand customers to Hindavi Swarajya every day during Shravan
In the winding lanes of Gaothan Khau Galli near Deccan Corner, where one can hear the clatter of plates through the monsoon drizzle, one humble snack reigns supreme: a golden, ghee-fried sabudana wada that has Punekars lining up, rain or shine. The story behind Hindavi Swarajya's wada is as rich as the snack itself. What began as a family-run juice and bhel outlet has now become a fasting-day essential for hundreds of local residents and others. 'I started this outlet in 2011 on J M Road,' recalls Kiran Shevale, the owner of Hindavi Swarajya's Sabudana Wada outlet. 'But in 2014, I moved it to Gaothan Khau Galli, and it has since been a dream run. My uncle originally started 'Hindavi Swarajya Food Centre' with fruit juices. I later added a bhel outlet, but soon I realised that no one was selling upwas food in the area. That is when the sabudana wada's journey began.' These aren't your average wadas. Each piece weighs a generous 100-125 grams, fried in pure ghee, and costs Rs 70 for a plate of two with unlimited dahi-kakdi chutney, a creamy, cooling accompaniment that regulars can't get enough of. 'People always tell us that it's not just a wada, it's an experience,' Kiran says with a laugh. 'Even on regular days, we serve around 200-300 people, but on fasting days like Mahashivratri, Ekadashi, or during Shravan, we serve over 1,000 customers. We even bring in staff from our other outlets just to handle the rush.' For many, a visit to Hindavi Swarajya is part of their weekly routine. 'I don't even fast regularly, but I still come here every Saturday for their sabudana wada,' says Amar Shikalgar, a student at Fergusson College nearby. 'It's for that crispy outer layer and the softness inside. Nothing else compares to it.' Vivek Deshmukh, a local businessman, agrees. 'The wada is pure nostalgia for me. I have been coming here for years. I have tried wadas elsewhere, but no one does it like Hindavi Swarajya. The chutney is what seals the deal.' The outlet's loyal following is the result of a simple formula: quality, consistency, and word of mouth. Though they have never invested in fancy advertising, the buzz has travelled far, thanks in part to Pune's enthusiastic food influencers and social media reviewers. It has always been about mouth publicity by customers. 'Rain sometimes plays spoilsport,' Kiran admits. 'But Punekars are die-hard fans. They parcel it or order from Zomato. They don't skip their wada. It has become a ritual for many.' True to its name, Hindavi Swarajya, which echoes the spirit of local pride and self-reliance, has created more than a successful business. It has carved a place in Pune's culinary soul, one ghee-drenched wada at a time. As another upwas day approaches and the aroma of sizzling sabudana wada fills the lane, it is clear: at Hindavi Swarajya, every plate serves a promise of tradition, taste, and togetherness. Divyaja Kalyankar is an intern with The Indian Express
Indian Express
18-07-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
Bid to defame kanwariyas as unruly: Yogi says Kanwar Yatra progressing peacefully
CM Yogi Adityanath on Friday said that some people are 'labelling' kanwariyas (Kanwar Yatra pilgrims) as 'miscreants' and emphasised that that they (kanwariyas) have been taking out the Yatra peacefully and with full of devotion. Adityanath also pointed out that attempts are being made to incite caste conflict through fake social media accounts. The CM was addressing an event in Varanasi, where he inaugurated a national seminar on tribal icon Birsa Munda. He emphasised that the Kanwar Yatra embodies unity transcending caste, creed, and sect. 'Today, the Yatra is progressing peacefully and with devotion, yet some label it as unruly. These are the same forces that try to mislead and provoke tribal communities. We must remain alert to such divisive elements,' he warned. He condemned attempts to fuel caste and communal tensions via fake social media identities. Recalling a specific incident, he said, 'A few years ago, there was a case of arson. I remarked then that such an act likely didn't belong to any particular community. The investigation later confirmed that although the person involved was wearing a saffron scarf, he was shouting 'Ya Allah'. These deceptive individuals must be exposed and excluded from society if we are to protect national unity.' He added that the same forces who spread caste-based hatred online had also tried to provoke tribal communities against the nation. He cited a recent incident from Jaunpur, where a tall 'Tazia' was constructed in violation of safety norms and came into contact with a high-tension wire, tragically claiming three lives. 'Following this, an attempt was made to block roads and create unrest. I instructed the police to take strict action. Those disrupting social harmony must understand that peace and order are paramount,' he asserted. In his address, Adityanath emphasised that tribal society has always been the 'bedrock of the country's Sanatan tradition.' He highlighted its enduring role in defending the nation and safeguarding cultural values across eras. Referring to the Ramayana, he said, 'When Lord Rama was in exile and Mother Sita was abducted, it was the tribal community that stood by him, despite the absence of Ayodhya's army. Similarly, Maharana Pratap reorganised his army in the forests of the Aravalli Range with the support of tribal groups and resisted Akbar. Chhatrapati Shivaji, too, relied on the Vanvasi (forest dwellers) society to lay the foundation of the Hindavi Swarajya.' The Chief Minister emphasised that Indian tradition has never confined Hindu identity to temple visits or scriptural belief. 'Both the believer and the non-believer are Hindus. Charvak and Lord Buddha did not accept the Vedas, yet they are deeply respected in our tradition. Then why question the identity of tribal communities in the context of Hinduism?' he asked.
New Indian Express
18-07-2025
- Politics
- New Indian Express
Fake social media accounts fuelling caste tensions: UP CM Yogi Adityanath
LUCKNOW: While hailing tribal communities as the foundation of Indian civilisation, preservers of Sanatan values, and defenders of the nation for centuries, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday warned against rising attempts to allegedly incite caste conflict through fake social media accounts. Calling for immediate action to stop such divisive agendas, the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister said fake social media accounts were being blatantly used by divisive forces to spark caste-based tensions and vitiate the social atmosphere. In his address, the Chief Minister emphasised that tribal society had always been the bedrock of India's Sanatan tradition. He highlighted its enduring role in defending the nation and safeguarding cultural values across eras. Elaborating with references from the Ramayana and other historical events, Yogi said: 'When Lord Rama was in exile and Goddess Sita was abducted, it was the tribal community that stood by him to fight the might of demon king Ravana even in the absence of Ayodhya's army. Similarly, Maharana Pratap reorganised his army in the forests of the Aravalli Range with the support of tribal groups and resisted Emperor Akbar. Chhatrapati Shivaji, too, relied on the Vanvasi (forest dwellers) society to lay the foundation of the Hindavi Swarajya.' The Chief Minister hailed Birsa Munda as a key figure of India's national awakening, asserting that tribal communities have consistently played a vital role in protecting India's spiritual and cultural legacy. 'While we often associate the struggle for independence with recent history, the tribal society has been fighting for Sanatan Dharma through ages.'
