4 days ago
Raghuji Bhonsle's Sword To Reach Mum Today, Mudhoji Raje To Attend Ceremony
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Nagpur: The legendary sword of Shrimant Raje Raghuji Bhonsle, a rare 18th-century Maratha weapon that was overseas for over two centuries, is set to arrive in Mumbai on Monday.
The state govt will accord it a grand reception at
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
International Airport, where cultural minister Ashish Shelar will receive the sword before it is showcased in an evening 'Senasahebsubha Parakram Darshan' ceremony at the P L Deshpande Maharashtra Kala Academy in Prabhadevi.
The evening ceremony will also be graced by chief minister Devendra Fadnavis.
Mudhoji Raje Bhonsle, the descendant of Raghuji Bhonsle and head of the Bhonsle family in Nagpur, will be travelling from Kolhapur to attend the evening ceremony. His office bearers have confirmed his participation, noting that he is among the invitees and will be present for the official unveiling of the sword.
Sources said Bhonsle will also hold discussions with government officials and likely with Shelar on bringing the sword to Nagpur at the earliest.
The sword, won by the Maharashtra govt earlier this year in a London auction, was personally collected by Shelar. It bears the gold-inscribed Devanagari inscription 'Shreemant Raghoji Bhonsle Senasahebsuha Firang' and features a European-style straight blade with intricate Maratha koftgari hilt detailing.
Experts believe it may have left India after the 1817 Battle of Sitabuldi or as a ceremonial gift to the East India Company.
The day-long programme in Mumbai begins with the sword's reception at 10 am, followed by homage at the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the airport precinct in the presence of Shelar.
A bike rally and a decorated chariot procession will then carry the sword to the Kala Academy. Deputy chief ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar are also expected, along with other state dignitaries.
For Nagpur, the ceremony holds special historical significance.
Raghuji Bhonsle, who ruled from 1695 to 1755, was instrumental in establishing the Bhonsle dynasty in Nagpur and expanded Maratha influence deep into Bengal, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and southern India.
The sword's return and public display provide a tangible connection to the city's rich Maratha legacy, making it an event of pride for the people of Nagpur as well.
The exhibition of the sword will remain open to the public from August 19 to 25, between 11 am and 7 pm, at the art gallery of P L Deshpande Maharashtra Kala Academy. Alongside the sword, information on twelve heritage-listed forts will be on display. Entry is free for all visitors.
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