NEW DELHI: In a momentous improvement, the UK has agreed to return the legendary ‘wagh nakh,’ a dagger paying homage to tiger claws that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj wielded to assassinate Afzal Khan, the final of the Bijapur sultanate, in 1659.
This iconic historic artefact has been on show on the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. State Cultural Affairs Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar is scheduled to go to London later this month to formalize the return by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
Anticipation is constructing, and if all goes in line with plan, the revered ‘wagh nakh’ could discover its manner again dwelling this yr. Minister Mungantiwar introduced, “We have now acquired affirmation from UK authorities that they’re keen to return Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s ‘wagh nakh.’ We’re contemplating bringing it again to coincide with the anniversary of Shivaji’s slaying of Afzal Khan, based mostly on the Hindu calendar. We’re additionally exploring different dates and making preparations for the transportation of the ‘wagh nakh.'”
This historic artefact holds immense significance, symbolizing a pivotal second in Maharashtra’s historical past. Afzal Khan’s demise is commemorated on November 10, in line with the Gregorian calendar, however the authorities is working to find out a date in accordance with the Hindu tithi calendar.
Mungantiwar additional emphasised the significance of this endeavour, stating, “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s ‘wagh nakh’ is a priceless historic treasure, and the feelings of the individuals of the state are deeply linked to it. The switch should be carried out with the utmost private accountability and care.”
To facilitate this vital return, a crew comprising Mungantiwar, Dr Vikas Kharge (Principal Secretary, Tradition), and Dr. Tejas Garge (Director of the State’s Directorate of Archaeology and Museums) will go to the Victoria and Albert Museum and different museums in London. The federal government decision from the Cultural Affairs Division outlines an estimated expenditure of roughly Rs 50 lakh for this six-day go to, scheduled from September 29 to October 4.
The ‘wagh nakh’ itself is a exceptional piece of historical past, crafted from metal and that includes 4 claws mounted on a bar with two rings for the primary and fourth fingers. Its return to Maharashtra guarantees to be a momentous event, rekindling the connection between the individuals and their wealthy heritage.