Another golden chapter has been added to the efforts to bring back India's historical heritage. The 200-year-old sword of the Maratha Empire's brave commander, Raghoji Bhonsle I, has finally returned to its homeland.
Mumbai: The Maharashtra government has achieved a significant milestone related to history and culture. The renowned sword of the great Maratha Empire commander, Raghoji Bhonsle I, has been successfully repatriated from a London auction. This invaluable relic arrived in Mumbai on Monday morning. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis hailed this initiative as "an effort to restore India's heritage."
Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar informed that the sword was brought to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport at around 10 am. Subsequently, it was securely kept at the P.L. Deshpande Academy in Prabhadevi under tight security.
Arrival of the Sword in Mumbai
On Monday morning, around 10 am, the sword arrived at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport amidst tight security arrangements. It was then transported to the P.L. Deshpande Academy in Prabhadevi. Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar stated that as per the original plan, the sword was to be taken from the airport to the academy in a bike rally, but this program had to be cancelled due to heavy rains and traffic.
CM Fadnavis Said - 'Not Just a Weapon, But a Symbol of Valour'
Addressing the welcome ceremony held at the academy, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said: This sword is not just a war implement, but a symbol of the bravery and valour of the Maratha Empire. It was, in a way, snatched away from us, and now it has returned to the soil of Maharashtra. This heritage will connect future generations to our glorious history.
Fadnavis further stated that as soon as the government received information about the auction, immediate action was taken. He also mentioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said that the central government has also played an important role in bringing back many historical artifacts from abroad to India in recent years.
Historical Heritage Purchased for ₹47 Lakh
The sword was purchased by the Maharashtra government for ₹47.15 lakh at an international auction held in London. Historians believe that this sword left India during the Battle of Sitabuldi in 1817. At that time, the British East India Company defeated the Bhonsle rulers of Nagpur and many artifacts fell into the hands of the British.
Raghoji Bhonsle I was the founder of the Nagpur Bhonsle dynasty and a prominent commander during the reign of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj. His role in the expansion of the Maratha Empire was extremely significant. His name is taken in history for his courage, war skills, and strategic capabilities. The return of his sword is a moment of pride not only for Maharashtra but for the entire India.
Pride and Glory of the Maratha Empire
Chief Minister Fadnavis, describing the sword as the "pride and glory of the Maratha Empire," said that it is not just the heritage of Maharashtra but the pride of the entire country. He said: This moment inspires us to bring back more of our historical heritage from abroad. This sword reminds us of the glorious saga of the Maratha Empire that has left an indelible mark on Indian history.
Historians and experts believe that such artifacts are not only meant to adorn museums but are also a part of the nation's cultural identity and pride.
