London, 11 August 2025 – In a stirring moment of pride and reverence, Hon’ble Minister of Culture, Adv. Ashish Shelar, officially received the legendary 18th-century sword of Raghuji Bhosale I in London today.
The Minister described the occasion as far more than a ceremonial return: “Today is not merely a historic moment, it is a radiant celebration of Maharashtra’s cultural renaissance. Standing on this historic soil of London, we honour the memory of a great warrior with renewed reverence. This sword is not just an artifact; it is a living witness to the heroism of our ancestors. Today, we are reconnecting our cultural identity and glorious legacy with the soil of Maharashtra. This moment will be remembered not only as a tribute to the past but as a beacon of inspiration for the future.”
(L-R) Prince Lumb; Darshan Grewal; Minister Adv.Ashish Shelar; Surinder Gautama Editor Eshadoot; Suresh Mangalagiri
The sword, an exquisite example of the Maratha “Firang” style, features a European-made straight, single-edged blade, engraved near the hilt with the manufacturer’s mark. Along its spine in gold inlay is the Devanagari inscription: “Shrimant Raghoji Bhosale Sena Sahib Subha Firang.” The hilt, in the Mulheri Ghat style, is adorned with intricate gold koftgari work, and the pommel is wrapped in green cloth, a testament to Maratha craftsmanship.
Raghuji Bhosale I (1695–1755), founder of the Nagpur Bhosale dynasty and a prominent commander under Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, was a visionary leader and skilled military strategist. Granted the prestigious title “Sena Sahib Subha” for his valor, he extended Maratha influence through campaigns against the Nawab of Bengal and victories in Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and South India.
The sword’s journey away from India began after the East India Company’s victory at the Battle of Sitabuldi in 1817, when the Nagpur treasury was plundered. It resurfaced centuries later at a Sotheby’s auction in April 2025 under the “Splendour” collection, where it was purchased by Mr. Praveen Challa. The Government of Maharashtra, under the vision of Hon. Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis, acquired the sword from Mr. Challa, ensuring its return to its rightful homeland.
After decades overseas, the storied sword of Raghuji Bhosale I is finally returning to Maharashtra with pride, an accomplishment made possible by the unwavering dedication of the Government of Maharashtra. This landmark achievement owes its success to the vision and decisive leadership of Hon. Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis. Soon, the sword will take its rightful place at the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, where it will be displayed for public viewing, enabling citizens and future generations to experience firsthand the grandeur of their heritage.
This historic return was made possible through the meticulous efforts of Mr. Hemant Dalavi, Deputy Director, Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, and historian Mr. Sanket Kulkarni, who examined the sword and prepared a comprehensive condition report. The Indian Embassy played an instrumental role in ensuring its smooth repatriation. Key contributions also came from Former Additional Chief Secretary Shri Vikas Kharge, Current Secretary Dr. Kiran Kulkarni, and Director Dr. Tejas Garge, with vital support from the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
18th-century sword of Raghuji Bhosale I i
Today’s achievement is a powerful reminder that heritage is not merely to be safeguarded, it must be actively reclaimed with conviction. The return of this sword signifies more than the recovery of a priceless artifact; it is the revival of Maharashtra’s proud history and the reaffirmation of its enduring spirit.
By Prince M.Lumb (Lumb@eshadoot.com)
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Fantastic story, well done Lumbji to record this monumental moment adding pride to our history and culture. The colonisers looted and plundered our jewels, artefacts, statues of deities and what not for their own greed and consumption. The homecoming of such important pieces of archaeological interest due and one day the British Government will eat the humble pie and return many more without having to purchase
Thank you Bharat ji