New Delhi, July 18: The historic ‘wagh-nakh’ (tiger claws) attributed to the legendary Maratha warrior Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj has been brought back from London and is set to be displayed in Maharashtra’s Satara district starting Friday.
These tiger claws hold significant historical value, as they are believed to have been used by Shivaji Maharaj during his famous battle against Bijapur Sultanate’s General Afzal Khan in 1659.
However, the much-anticipated public display has been overshadowed by controversy. Renowned historian Indrajit Sawant has raised doubts about the authenticity of the ‘wagh nakh’. Sawant, known for his in-depth research on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, claims the tiger claws are not genuine and accuses the Maharashtra government of misleading the public. He asserts that the real tiger claws are already housed in Satara district.
Sawant’s skepticism is shared by others. Former Shiv Sena (UBT) minister Aditya Thackeray had previously expressed similar concerns regarding the authenticity of the claws. Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson Anand Dubey has also called for an investigation into the matter. “The claws brought, claiming to be original, are not convincing to us. Now, even historian Indrajit Sawant is questioning their credibility. The BJP needs to carefully consider what is correct and what is not,” Dubey stated.
In response to these allegations, Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar clarified, “No one has claimed that the ‘wagh nakh’ or the tiger claws being brought from London were used by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.” He also addressed concerns about the expenses, stating that a total of Rs 14.08 lakh was spent on travel and formalities.
Minister Mungantiwar assured that the ‘wagh nakh’ has been received and will be displayed in the Chhatrapati Shivaji Sangrahalay (museum), where the public can view and take pride in them. As per an agreement with the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, the tiger claws will remain in Maharashtra for three years.
