The Shivshastra Shaurya Gatha Exhibition Kolhapur has opened to massive public interest as it showcases one of India’s most revered historical artifacts — the legendary Wagh Nakh (tiger claws) used by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This exhibition, being held in Kolhapur, offers visitors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the iconic weapon that symbolizes the courage, strategy, and pride of the Maratha Empire.
According to The Times of India, the display of the Wagh Nakh — which Shivaji Maharaj famously used to defeat Afzal Khan in 1659 at Pratapgad — marks a historic cultural moment for Maharashtra. The weapon, loaned from the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in London, has been brought to India under a special arrangement between the British and Indian authorities.
The Shivshastra Shaurya Gatha Exhibition Kolhapur is part of a broader initiative by the Maharashtra government to bring historical artifacts connected to Shivaji Maharaj back to their homeland for public viewing. Alongside the Wagh Nakh, the exhibition features several other replicas and displays that narrate the glorious legacy of Shivaji Maharaj’s leadership, his military tactics, and his contribution to India’s cultural identity.
Visitors to the exhibition can view detailed descriptions, multimedia presentations, and historical context about the Wagh Nakh — its design, the momentous battle at Pratapgad, and its significance in Indian history. The exhibit uses advanced visual storytelling to help audiences connect emotionally with the Maratha warrior spirit.
The Wagh Nakh, or “tiger claws,” is a small, concealed weapon designed to fit over the fingers or knuckles, used for slashing in close combat. It became an enduring symbol of Shivaji Maharaj’s ingenuity and tactical brilliance. Its display in Kolhapur holds immense sentimental value, particularly for devotees, historians, and students eager to learn more about India’s proud heritage.
The Shivshastra Shaurya Gatha Exhibition Kolhapur also includes a series of educational sessions, cultural programs, and lectures by historians that delve into the Maratha empire’s military innovation, art, and governance. Local schools and colleges are organizing group visits to encourage youth participation in understanding the state’s rich history.
Cultural historians have described the exhibition as a landmark event in heritage preservation and public awareness. “This is not just an exhibition; it’s a revival of collective memory,” said one historian involved in curating the display. The initiative highlights how cultural diplomacy and international cooperation can help nations reconnect with their roots.
Visitors are encouraged to book their visits in advance due to the high turnout and security arrangements surrounding the Wagh Nakh. The artifact is being displayed under strict preservation conditions, including temperature and light control, to ensure its safety and integrity during the exhibition period.
Event Details:
- Event: Shivshastra Shaurya Gatha Exhibition Kolhapur
- Location: Kolhapur, Maharashtra
- Highlight: Display of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s Wagh Nakh
- Organized by: Government of Maharashtra and local heritage departments
- Focus: Maratha history, heritage, and cultural preservation
The Shivshastra Shaurya Gatha Exhibition Kolhapur stands as a powerful reminder of India’s glorious past and the enduring legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Through artifacts like the Wagh Nakh, the exhibition inspires pride, patriotism, and a renewed appreciation for the valor and vision that shaped India’s identity.
