Historic 'Wagh Nakh' Returned from London: Controversy Unfolds

Maharashtra Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar announced the return of the 'Wagh Nakh', a tiger claw-shaped weapon used by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj from London, denying high expenditure claims. Historian Indrajit Sawant disputes its authenticity, claiming the original is still in Satara. The artifact will be displayed in a Satara museum for three years.

Maharashtra Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar has announced that the legendary 'Wagh Nakh' weapon, used by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, has been brought back from London's Victoria and Albert Museum. Dismissing claims of exorbitant costs, he clarified that the procedure incurred expenses of Rs 14.08 lakh.

The weapon, associated with the Maratha hero’s slaying of Bijapur Sultanate's general Afzal Khan in 1659, will be on display at a museum in Satara from July 19 for three years. This decision came after initial resistance, with the London museum agreeing after negotiations to extend the handover period.

However, historian Indrajit Sawant stirred controversy by asserting that the genuine Wagh Nakh remains in Satara. Mungantiwar defended the artifact's authenticity, citing historical records and photo evidence. The debate continues as the state prepares for the artifact's grand display.