The China Mail - Mumbai Exhibition Showcases Shivaji Maharaj’s Wagh Nakh and Maratha Weapons

The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS) in Mumbai has inaugurated a six-month exhibition titled "Shivshastra Shauryagatha," showcasing historical weapons associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the Maratha era. The exhibition, which opened on Friday, features significant artifacts including Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s wagh nakh (tiger claws), the sword of Senasaheb Subha Raghuji Raje Bhosale, and other items from the period.

Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar inaugurated the special exhibition, which was organized jointly by the state government’s Cultural Affairs Department, the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, and CSMVS. Shelar described the preservation and conservation of weapons from Shivaji’s era as a duty, urging residents, particularly history enthusiasts, to visit the exhibition to learn about Maharashtra’s heritage.

"Bringing historical weapons such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s wagh nakh (tiger claws) and the sword of Senasaheb Subha Raghuji Raje Bhosale back to Maharashtra through international efforts while following all rules and procedures was our duty. Preserving and conserving weapons from the Shivaji era is our responsibility," Shelar said.

The minister emphasized that the artifacts were not merely symbols of valour but also reflected the courage, engineering skills, metallurgy, and meticulous planning of the Maratha period. He noted that the state government, under Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, along with administrative officials, engaged in prolonged negotiations and sustained efforts to return the artefacts while adhering to international rules and protocols.

Regarding the return of Raghuji Raje Bhosale’s sword, Shelar stated that necessary permissions were secured from the Ministry of External Affairs, the Reserve Bank of India, and the Indian Embassy. He credited the support of the Union government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi for facilitating the sword's return through coordination and appropriate mediation as an artefact belonging to Maharashtra and the Marathi people.

The exhibition displays a range of historical weapons, including the sword of military commander Prataprao Gujar, the shield of Khanderao Gaekwad, and the dandpatta gauntlet sword of Sardar Raste. Cultural Affairs and Marathi Language Department Secretary Kiran Kulkarni stated that the Mumbai exhibition has given the study of Maratha and Shiva-era weapon traditions a new international dimension.

Kulkarni highlighted the technical requirements involved in preserving historical artefacts brought from abroad, such as maintaining controlled temperatures, ensuring safe distances between exhibits, and providing appropriate lighting. He confirmed that the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums and CSMVS followed international standards while setting up the exhibition.

Director of Archaeology and Museums Tejas Garge said the state government entrusted the Cultural Affairs Department and the Directorate with the responsibility of bringing the historical wagh nakh back to India on the occasion of the 350th anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s coronation. The exhibition was developed following a memorandum of understanding with London’s Victoria and Albert Museum.

Garge noted that the exhibition had previously been showcased in Satara, Kolhapur, and Nagpur, where it received visits from lakhs of people. He added that the initiative set an example in the preservation, conservation, and documentation of historical weapons.

During the inauguration, Powada performer Nandesh Umap presented a traditional Powada depicting the historical episode of the killing of Afzal Khan. The book "Dandpattars" was also unveiled during the event. The inauguration was attended by CSMVS Director General Sabyasachi Mukherjee, Deputy Director of Archaeology and Museums Hemant Dalvi, trustee Cyrus Guzder, and others.

Shelar also referred to the inclusion of 12 forts associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in UNESCO’s World Heritage List. He said the proposal was taken forward through efforts by the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister, including engagement with member nations to present India’s case, and was subsequently approved unanimously. Additionally, he noted that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s royal seal is now featured on the Indian Navy’s flag and uniform.

M.Chau--ThChM