In a landmark achievement for Maharashtra’s cultural heritage, the state government has successfully acquired the historic sword of Raja Raghuji Bhonsale – the founder of the Bhonsale family in Nagpur – at an international auction held in London.
This priceless relic of the Maratha empire will now be brought back to its homeland. Raja Raghuji Bhonsale was a key commander in the Maratha army during the reign of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj. Recognised for his strategic brilliance and valour in battle, he was honoured with the title ‘Senasaheb Subha’ by the Chhatrapati.
In the 1740s, Raghuji Bhonsale led significant military campaigns against the Nawabs of Bengal, expanding Maratha influence into Bengal and Odisha. He also established strong military and political authority in South India.
The acquisition of this historic artifact was the result of coordinated efforts led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and cultural affairs minister Ashish Shelar. Working late into the night, the two leaders developed a strategic communication plan and swiftly moved to secure Maharashtra’s bid.
Under the CM's direction, Shelar appointed a mediator to represent the state in the auction. The bid was successfully won, with a total cost including handling, transport and insurance amounting to Rs 47.15 lakh.
This marks the first time the Maharashtra government has recovered such a culturally significant artifact through an international auction. Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Shelar expressed his gratitude to Fadnavis.
“This is a moment of immense pride and a historic achievement for Maharashtra under the leadership of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar,” he said.
