In a momentous occasion, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced the signing of an agreement to bring Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's iconic Wagh Nakh from Britain to India. This historic artefact, a symbol of the guerrilla tactics employed in the establishment of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Empire, will not only serve as a tribute to Maharashtra but also as a source of inspiration for Chhatrapati Shivaji enthusiasts across India.

The agreement was formally signed with Tristram Hunt, the Director of the Victoria and Albert Museum, and was attended by notable dignitaries, including Cultural Affairs Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar, Industries Minister Uday Samant, Principal Secretary of the Cultural Department Vikas Kharge, and Director of Archaeology and Museums Tejas Garge.

The Wagh Nakh will be in India from November 2023 to November 2026 and will be exhibited in various museums across Maharashtra. These museums I clude the state archaeological department museums in Satara, Nagpur, and Kolhapur, as well as the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum in Mumbai.

Chief Minister Mr. Shinde emphasized the historic significance of this moment for Chhatrapati Shivaji enthusiasts and the entire nation, especially on the heels of the grand celebration of the 350th coronation anniversary of Shivaji. He stressed the importance of the Wagh Nakhe among Chhatrapati Shivaji's weapons and its invaluable nature due to its connection with the great Maharaj.

Mr. Shinde praised the Cultural Affairs Department, Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar, and their team for their relentless efforts. He also commended the cooperation between the State Cultural Affairs Department, the Central Government, and the British Government in achieving this agreement. The Chief Minister expressed his belief that this Tiger Claw would serve as a lasting reminder of Shivaji's valour, inspiring the younger generation to follow in his footsteps.

The decision to repatriate the Tiger Claw to India in honour of the 350th year of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's coronation was championed by Minister Mungantiwar, who pursued it consistently with both the Central Government and international authorities. This journey towards repatriation began with correspondence initiated by the Maharashtra Government on 15th April 2023, following a meeting in Mumbai with British officials.