The legendary “wagh nakh,” or “tiger claw,” weapon famously wielded by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj during his historic victory over the Bijapur Sultanate’s general Afzal Khan in 1659, is scheduled to make its return to Maharashtra from London this November. This year marks the 350th anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji’s coronation, and the tiger claw weapon will be exhibited in Maharashtra for three years as part of commemorative events.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s ‘Tiger Claw’ Weapon Returns to Maharashtra for 350th Coronation Anniversary
Sudhir Mungantiwar, the Culture Minister of Maharashtra, is set to travel to London to finalize an agreement with the Victoria and Albert Museum for the return of this historically significant weapon. The first phase of this initiative will bring back the wagh nakh, with plans for its arrival in November, coinciding with the day when Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj defeated Afzal Khan.
Once back in India, the wagh nakh is expected to find its home at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum in South Mumbai.
The Battle of Pratapgad in 1659 marked a pivotal moment in Chhatrapati Shivaji’s efforts to establish the Maratha Empire. Despite being outnumbered, the Marathas emerged victorious against the Adilshahi forces led by Afzal Khan. This triumph solidified Chhatrapati Shivaji’s reputation as a brilliant military strategist.
The historic encounter, where Chhatrapati Shivaji killed Afzal Khan at the foot of Pratapgarh fort in present-day Satara district, Maharashtra, has become a symbol of his courage and cunning in defeating a formidable and more powerful adversary.
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