Historic 'Wagh Nakh' of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Returns to Maharashtra From London

New Delhi: After a year of negotiations, the iconic 'wagh nakh'—a tiger's claw used by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to slay Afzal Khan in 1659—has returned to Maharashtra. The artefact arrived on July 17 and was exhibited starting July 19 at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Sangrahalaya in Satara.

Museum Display and Future Showcases

The 'wagh nakh' will be on display for seven months in Satara and subsequently showcased at four different museums across Maharashtra over the next three years, following a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between the state government and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

Official Unveiling Ceremony

The artefact was unveiled to the public on July 19 at 11 am by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, along with direct descendants of Shivaji Maharaj, Udayanaraje Bhosale and Shivendraraje Bhosale.

Security and Arrangements

Excise Minister Shambhuraj Desai inspected security measures and other arrangements at the museum to ensure the artefact's safety. He emphasized meticulous planning, including maintaining proper environmental conditions for preservation.

Historical Controversy Resolved

The authenticity of the 'wagh nakh' had been disputed, with historian Indrajit Sawant initially claiming it was not the original artefact. Cultural Affairs Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar clarified that the museum confirmed its authenticity via a specially marked box dating back to 1875, settling doubts raised in the legislature recently.

Government's Efforts and Controversies

Mungantiwar further addressed rumors regarding government expenditures, asserting that the artefact was loaned to Maharashtra without cost. He highlighted the community's demand and historical evidence presented to secure the artefact's return.