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The Print
13 hours ago
- Politics
- The Print
Fadnavis govt's big Maratha pride push: Legendary sword it ‘bought' back from London, with a Rs 47L bid
Raghuji Bhosale was the founder of the royal house of the Nagpur Bhosale dynasty as well as key commander in the Maratha army during the rule of Chhatrapati Sambhaji's son Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj. Mumbai: Maharashtra's BJP-led Mahayuti government will Monday showcase, with much fanfare, how under its leadership the state has, for the first time, brought back a historic Maratha-era artefact, Maratha commander Raghuji Bhosale's sword, which was once in London after securing it at an auction. The 18th-century sword will be displayed in Mumbai for the first time. The state government had planned an elaborate show, with the sword to be taken on a decorated chariot accompanied by a motorbike rally from the airport to the P.L. Deshpande Maharashtra Kala Academy in Prabhadevi. However, the rally had to be called off due to heavy rain and waterlogging in parts of the city. On Monday evening, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis will formally inaugurate the display of the sword in a ceremony where Raghuji Bhosale's descendant, Shrimant Mudhoji Raje Bhosale, will also be present, a statement from Shelar's office said. The event has been kept open to all citizens. The state government has also organised an exhibition featuring the sword and displays of 12 heritage forts at the P.L. Deshpande Academy from 19 August to 25 August. The state government acquired the sword at a Sotheby's auction for Rs 47.15 lakh. Shelar had earlier said that he heard about the historic sword going under the hammer for an auction on 28 April and immediately brought it to Fadnavis' attention. The government looped in the Indian embassy in the United Kingdom, and also engaged an intermediary through whom the state government participated in the auction. Shelar took possession of the sword in London last week in the presence of representatives from the Marathi diaspora and completed the legal formalities to bring it back to Mumbai. Getting the historic sword back is the latest in a string of such moves. The BJP-led Mahayuti government has been increasingly deploying its culture and tourism departments in its pursuit of appropriating the legacy of the Maratha empire. Also Read: In Maharashtra, the wrestling mat is political turf, and Rohit Pawar's bout has just begun The Maratha-style firangi sword The sword of Raghuji Bhosale, which reached the P.L. Deshpande Academy at about noon on Monday, is a rare Maratha-style 'firangi' sword with a long European blade and an Indian hilt. It also has a Mulheri-style basket hilt with gold inlay koftgiri work. And there's a green cloth wrapping the rounded pommel. The European manufacturer's name is displayed near the hilt, whereas the spine of the blade has an inscription in the Devanagari script that reads, 'Shrimant Raghuji Bhosale Senasahib Subha Firang'. Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj had given Raghuji Bhosale the title of 'Senasahib Subha.' The founder of the Nagpur Bhosale dynasty led violent Maratha military campaigns against the Nawab of Bengal in 1745 and 1755. He is also said to have established control over Chanda in Chhattisgarh and Sambalpur in Odisha and defeated the Nawabs of Cuddapah and Kurnool, extending Maratha influence to southern India. 'Most medieval Maratha weapons lacked decorative embellishments or inscriptions of their makers or owners. This sword is a rare exception, bearing both intricate ornamentation and the owner's name,' Shelar said in a statement last week from London. He added that the presence of the European-made blade also pointed to the bustling global arms trade in 18th-century India. In 1817, the Bhosales of Nagpur unsuccessfully fought the British East India Company at Sitalbuldi, following which the Bhosale treasury is said to have been looted. Over time, the Nagpur Bhosales also gave tributes and gifts to the British. The sword could have left India either as loot or as a gift, Shelar said in the statement. Mahayuti's push to showcase Maratha history Getting the sword of Raghuji Bhosale back to Maharashtra is the latest in a string of such moves by the state culture and tourism departments. Last year, the BJP's Sudhir Mumgantiwar, the culture minister in the first Mahayuti government—comprising the BJP, the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and the Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP)—brought back the 'wagh nakh' from London's Victoria and Albert Museum to Maharashtra. The 'wagh nakh' is said to have been used by Maratha warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji to kill the Bijapur Sultanate's general, Afzal Khan, in 1659. During his trip to London last week, Shelar had a meeting with the director of the Victoria and Albert Museum, after which he said in a statement, 'We had received Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's iconic 'wagh nakh' on a three-year loan. However, they will eventually have to be returned. Such situations should not arise in the future. Therefore, we discussed on a positive note, the possibility of obtaining other important artefacts from the Victoria and Albert Museum on a longer-term loan.' The state culture department also pushed a proposal to get UNESCO World Heritage status for 12 forts built by Chhatrapati Shivaji, which came through in July this year. On Sunday, Minister Shelar commemorated Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's escape from Mughal emperor Aurangzeb's captivity by performing a ritual at the equestrian statue in front of Agra's Red Fort with water collected from 101 forts across Maharashtra. Shelar also said that the Maharashtra government will henceforth commemorate this day as 'Shivchaturya din' and allocate funds for the celebration. Similarly, the state tourism department plans to build memorials of Chhatrapati Shivaji outside Maharashtra as well by acquiring sites significant in the history of the Maratha empire across different states. Its first attempt is in Agra in Uttar Pradesh, where it is trying to acquire the land where Chhatrapati Shivaji was kept under house arrest by Aurangzeb before his escape. The state government has also been trying to get Chhatrapati Shivaji's ceremonial 'Jagdamba sword', currently housed in St. James' Palace in London, back to Maharashtra. (Edited by Sugita Katyal) Also Read: With AI, VR and walls that speak, Bandra museum is immortalising legacy of Mumbai dabbawalas
News18
7 days ago
- General
- News18
Nagpur Bhosale Dynasty Founder's Historic Sword Returns To Maharashtra After 200 Years
Last Updated: The sword belonged to Raghuji Bhosale, a fearless commander under Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, who gave him the title Senasahib Subha for his bravery and strategic skill News18 A priceless piece of Maratha history is finally returning home. The sword of Raghuji Bhosale—the legendary founder of the Nagpur Bhosale dynasty and one of the most daring commanders in the Maratha army—has been secured by the Maharashtra government from London and will arrive in Mumbai on August 18. The sword was unexpectedly put up for auction on April 28 this year, sparking excitement and pride across Maharashtra. As soon as cultural affairs minister Ashish Shelar heard about it, he discussed the matter with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Determined to bring the sword back to India, the government worked quickly, coordinating with the Indian Embassy and appointing an intermediary to participate in the auction. Their swift action paid off, and Maharashtra won the bid. This week in London, Shelar met the intermediary, completed all the legal procedures, and officially took possession of the sword. For the first time in its history, the state has brought back a historic artefact from abroad through an auction. 'This is not just a weapon, it's a witness to our glorious past," Shelar said, calling the moment a victory for every citizen of Maharashtra. The event drew several Marathi-speaking people living in London, who came to witness this special moment. Deputy Director of the Archaeology Department, Hemant Dalvi, was also present during the handover. The sword will land at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport at 10am on August 18. It will then be taken in a bike rally to PL Deshpande Kala Academy in Dadar, where it will be displayed during a programme called Gad Garjana. Raghuji Bhosale I (1695 – 1755) was a fearless commander under Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, who gave him the title Senasahib Subha for his bravery and strategic skill. He led successful campaigns in Bengal, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and parts of South India, expanding the Maratha Empire's reach. The sword is a Maratha-style Firangi — a straight, single-edged European blade fitted with a gold-inlaid Mulheri hilt. Near the hilt, the name 'Shreemant Raghoji Bhosale Senasahib Subha Firang" is inscribed in Devanagari, confirming its royal ownership. Its gold koftgari decoration makes it rare, as most Maratha weapons were functional and unadorned. Historians believe the sword may have left India after the 1817 Battle of Sitabuldi, when the British East India Company defeated the Nagpur Bhosales and seized their treasures. Now, after more than two centuries abroad, the sword is returning to the land where it was forged, fought with, and celebrated—a homecoming that carries both pride and history for Maharashtra. view comments Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Indian Express
11-08-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
Historic sword of legendary Maratha Commander Raghuji Bhosale secured by government
The sword of Raghuji Bhosale was won in an auction by the Maharashtra Government and was taken into custody in London by Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar on Monday. Raghuji Bhosale was the founder of the Nagpur Bhosale dynasty and was a prominent commander in the Maratha army, during the reign of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj. The sword will be brought to Mumbai on August 18. News of this historic sword going up for auction broke unexpectedly on 28 April 2025, creating a wave of interest across Maharashtra. As soon as the Cultural Affairs Minister learned of it, he immediately discussed the matter with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and initiated planning to ensure the sword came into the government's possession. Calling it a witness to many glorious feats, Shelar expressed his honour at having the privilege of bringing such a priceless piece into Maharashtra's custody, describing it as a historic victory for the entire state. This marks the first time that the State has acquired a historic artefact from abroad through an auction. When the sword was taken into possession Monday, a large number of Marathi-speaking citizens in London gathered to witness and celebrate the event. Deputy Director of the Archaeology Department, Hemant Dalvi, also accompanied the Minister on this trip. After completing all legal formalities, the sword will arrive at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai, at 10 am on Monday, 18 August. In the presence of Cultural Affairs Minister Shelar, a bike rally will escort the sword with great fanfare to PL Deshpande Kala Academy, Dadar. On the same day, the programme 'Gad Garjana' will be held in the presence of dignitaries. Minister Shelar conveyed special thanks to the Chief Minister for the achievement, stating that under the leadership of CM Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, this is a proud moment that will go down in the Government's history. Raghuji Bhosale I (1695 – 14 February 1755) was the founder of the Nagpur Bhosale dynasty and a prominent commander in the Maratha army during Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj's reign. Impressed by his bravery and military strategy, Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj conferred upon him the title 'Senasahib Subha'. Raghuji Bhosale I led military campaigns against the Nawab of Bengal in 1745 and 1755, extending the Maratha Empire's reach to Bengal and Odisha. He also established control over Chanda, Chhattisgarh and Sambalpur, and defeated the Nawabs of Cuddapah and Kurnool, thereby asserting Maratha military and political dominance in southern India. Recognised as one of the most daring Maratha commanders of the 18th century, Raghuji Bhosale's Nagpur kingdom was rich in iron and copper deposits, used not only for manufacturing goods but also for crafting weapons. The sword of Raghuji Bhosale that went under the hammer in London is an exquisite example of the Maratha-style Firangi sword, featuring a straight, single-edged European blade and a gold-inlaid Mulheri hilt. Near the hilt is the name of the European manufacturer, as such blades were popular among India's elite in the medieval era. The spine of the blade bears a gold-inlaid Devanagari inscription reading 'Shreemant Raghoji Bhosale Senasahib Subha Firang', indicating it was made for or used by Raghuji Bhosale. The hilt is adorned with gold koftgari work, and the rounded pommel is wrapped in green cloth. This Firangi sword is remarkable for several reasons. Most medieval Maratha weapons lacked decorative embellishment or inscriptions of their makers or owners. This sword is a rare exception, bearing both intricate ornamentation and the owner's name. The presence of its European-made blade further points to the flourishing international arms trade in 18th-century India. In 1817, the Nagpur Bhosales fought the British East India Company at Sitabuldi. Following the Company's victory, the Bhosale treasury was looted, including many valuable items, jewellery and weapons. After Nagpur was annexed, the British also received tribute and gifts from the Bhosales over time. Experts believe that Raghuji Bhosale's sword may have left India either as part of the war loot or as a gift to the British.
Indian Express
29-04-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
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.
