Tiger Claws from Victoria and Albert Museum Arrive in Maharashtra: Chief Minister Shinde Defends Authenticity
Satara, 19th July 2024: Tiger claws from the Victoria and Albert Museum in London have arrived in Maharashtra, with the state government asserting their connection to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This claim has faced scrutiny from some historians and opposition figures, prompting Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to defend the artefacts.
At the inauguration of the ‘Shivashastra Shouryagatha’ exhibition in Satara, Chief Minister Shinde addressed the controversy, criticizing those who question the authenticity of the tiger claws. “Doubting the significance of these claws is an affront to Shivaji Maharaj’s valour and courage,” Shinde declared.
He added, “I speak here not merely as the Chief Minister, but as a devotee of Shivaji Maharaj. These claws have travelled a great distance back to Maharashtra, thanks to Sudhir Mungantiwar’s efforts. I am deeply grateful to him for this achievement.”
Shinde continued, “The doubts being cast on these claws are disheartening. They are the very claws used by Shivaji Maharaj to defeat Afzal Khan, a historical fact that makes us proud. Unfortunately, some individuals are more interested in political games than in honouring Shivaji’s legacy. Questioning the claws disrespects Shivaji’s bravery and valour.”
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also weighed in, criticizing the opposition for their stance. “Some individuals seem to have a chronic tendency to oppose everything,” he said.
Fadnavis highlighted the historical importance of the claws, stating, “The story of Shivaji Maharaj’s battle with Afzal Khan is well-known. Now, the very weapon used in that battle is in Maharashtra, displayed in Satara. This is a significant link to our history.”
He further addressed the opposition, saying, “Udayanraje and Shivendraraje have asked for no controversy over these claws. Yet, some persist in their opposition. This kind of mindset is a challenge, even one that Shivaji Maharaj faced and overcame to build his kingdom.”
Fadnavis concluded, “In a symbolic gesture, Sudhir Mungantiwar presented these claws to Chief Minister Shinde. While they no longer serve as weapons, they should inspire us to clear away the mental rust and mould that clouds the judgment of some.”
