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Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's renowned 'wagh nakh,' the fearsome 'tiger claw' weapon he wielded to vanquish General Afzal Khan of the Bijapur sultanate in 1659, is scheduled for a homecoming to Maharashtra from London in November. This year assumes added significance as it marks the 350th anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji's coronation, and the 'tiger claw' is poised to be returned from London's Victoria and Albert Museum for a three-year exhibition, a fitting tribute to this historic occasion.
Spearheading this momentous endeavor, Maharashtra's Culture Minister, Sudhir Mungantiwar, is set to journey to London on Tuesday to formalize an agreement with the museum for the repatriation of this iconic weapon. He earlier shared his intent to bring the 'wagh nakh' back, with a target arrival date in November that coincides with the momentous day when Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj confronted and defeated Afzal Khan in a legendary act of valor.
The 'wagh nakh' is slated to find its new home at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum in South Mumbai, where it will serve as a tangible link to an extraordinary chapter in Indian history.
The Battle of Pratapgad in 1659 stands as a pivotal moment in Chhatrapati Shivaji's campaign to establish the Maratha Empire. Despite being outnumbered, the Maratha forces emerged victorious against the Adilshahi army led by Afzal Khan. This triumph not only solidified Chhatrapati Shivaji's reputation as a brilliant military strategist but also bolstered the legacy of his courage and cunning.
It was at the foot of Pratapgarh fort in what is now the Satara district of Maharashtra that Chhatrapati Shivaji confronted and ultimately slew Afzal Khan. This iconic episode has transcended history to become an enduring symbol of Chhatrapati Shivaji's valor and tactical brilliance in overcoming a formidable and vastly superior adversary.
"In a treacherous encounter, when Afzal Khan betrayed Shivaji Maharaj, the 'wagh nakh' became the instrument of justice, ending the reign of the cruel and sinister Afzal Khan," remarked Mr. Mungantiwar. The 'wagh nakh' is not merely a historical relic but a wellspring of inspiration and fortitude for all who cherish Chhatrapati Shivaji's legacy. This year's commemoration of the 350th anniversary of his coronation adds further significance to this gesture.
However, it's worth noting that the authenticity of the 'wagh nakh' remains a subject of debate in Maharashtra. Some historians have raised questions, citing information from the Victoria and Albert Museum's website suggesting that Chhatrapati Shivaji did not employ this weapon. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray has also voiced doubts about the veracity of the 'wagh nakh.' This intriguing aspect continues to add layers of complexity to the historical narrative surrounding this iconic weapon and its association with the legendary Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
