A significant piece of Maratha heritage, the 18th-century sword of Commander Raghuji Bhosale I, founder of the Nagpur Bhosale dynasty, has been repatriated to Maharashtra. Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar took possession of the historic weapon in London on August 11, 2025, marking a momentous occasion for the state's cultural reclamation efforts.
The sword, a distinguished example of the Maratha 'firang' style, features a straight, single-edged European blade. Its rarity is further enhanced by a gold-inlaid Devanagari inscription on the spine, which reads “Shrimant Raghoji Bhosale Senasahib Subha Firang,” confirming its direct association with Raghuji Bhosale. The hilt is adorned with intricate gold koftgari work, and a green cloth-wrapped rounded pommel, details that set it apart from typical Maratha weaponry of the era, which often lacked such elaborate ornamentation. Experts suggest the sword likely left India following the Battle of Sitabuldi in 1817, where British forces defeated the Nagpur Bhosales, potentially as part of the war booty seized from the Bhosale treasury. Another theory posits it may have been a diplomatic gift to the East India Company at a later date.
The sword is scheduled to arrive at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai on August 18, 2025, at 10 am. A ceremonial bike rally will escort it to the P L Deshpande Kala Academy in Dadar, where it will be unveiled during the 'Gad Garjana' program that evening. This acquisition is particularly noteworthy as it represents the first instance of Maharashtra reclaiming a historical artifact of such considerable cultural value through an international auction.
Raghuji Bhosale I (1695–1755) was a formidable Maratha general and the founder of the Nagpur Bhosale dynasty. Under Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, he was honored with the title 'Senasahib Subha' for his exceptional bravery and strategic acumen. His military campaigns significantly expanded the Maratha Empire's influence, reaching as far as Bengal and Odisha, and solidifying dominance in regions like Chanda, Chhattisgarh, and Sambalpur. His military and political achievements in South India also marked him as one of the most courageous Maratha warriors of the 18th century.
The return of this sword is more than just the recovery of an artifact; it is a powerful symbol of Maharashtra's rich heritage and the enduring spirit of its people. It underscores the growing global movement to repatriate cultural treasures, restoring a tangible connection to the past and reinforcing national pride. The meticulous efforts involved in securing this piece highlight a commitment to preserving and celebrating the nation's historical narrative for future generations.