Did the Maharashtra Government Successfully Reclaim the Sword of Maratha Leader Raghuji Bhonsle?

Mumbai, April 29 (NationPress) The Maharashtra government has triumphantly regained the historic sword of the revered Maratha leader Raghuji Bhonsle, who was the founder of the Nagpur-based Bhonsle dynasty and a distinguished Maratha general during the era of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj. This significant piece was secured from an international auction in London.

The state emerged victorious in the bidding, with total expenses, including handling, transportation, and insurance, reaching approximately Rs 47.15 lakh.

In a recent statement, Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar remarked, "This remarkable recovery signifies Maharashtra's first time reclaiming a historic artifact of such profound cultural importance through an international auction."

Upon learning about the sword's auction in London on Monday, he promptly took action, guided by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Shelar appointed a mediator to represent the Maharashtra government during the auction.

He expressed his gratitude towards Chief Minister Fadnavis, highlighting this as a proud moment and a significant accomplishment for Maharashtra.

Raghuji Bhonsle I (1695 – February 14, 1755) was a prominent Maratha general under Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj and the founder of the Bhonsle dynasty in Nagpur. His bravery and military skills earned him the title 'Senasaheb Subha'.

He led crucial military campaigns in Bengal in 1745 and 1755, significantly expanding the Maratha empire into regions such as Bengal and Odisha. His influence also reached areas like Chanda, Chhattisgarh, and Sambalpur.

Raghuji's successful military endeavors in southern India, which resulted in the defeat of the Nawabs of Kurnool and Kadapa, further reinforced Maratha dominance in the region, as stated by the government.

Considered one of the most courageous Maratha warriors of the 18th century, Raghuji Bhonsle's legacy remains significant in Indian history.

The Nagpur Bhonsles governed a mineral-rich territory abundant in iron and copper, which were expertly utilized to create both everyday tools and formidable weapons.

The craftsmanship of the weapons produced by the Bhonsles is renowned for its exceptional quality.

The sword that was auctioned in London exemplifies the 'firangi' style of Maratha weaponry, featuring a straight, single-edged European blade paired with a locally crafted Mulheri hilt, adorned with intricate gold inlay.

The blade is marked with the European manufacturer's insignia and is inscribed with gold-inlaid Devanagari script near the hilt, stating 'Shrimant Raghoji Bhonsle Senasaheb Subha Firang'. This inscription indicates that the sword was either made for or personally used by Raghuji Bhonsle.

The hilt is further enhanced with koftgiri gold inlay, and the grip is wrapped in green cloth, adding to its remarkable beauty.

This sword carries immense historical significance for various reasons. Most medieval Indian weapons either lacked decorative details or did not show the maker's or owner's name, making this sword a rare exception.

The European-made blade reflects the active global arms trade in 18th-century India, highlighting the blend of Indian and European craftsmanship, according to government statements.

After the Battle of Sitabuldi in 1817, where the East India Company defeated the Nagpur Bhonsles, the British looted the Bhonsle treasury, taking away invaluable treasures, ornaments, and weapons. Experts speculate that this sword may have been part of that war loot or a gift given to the British post-battle.