India, Aug. 18 -- The sword of Maratha commander Raghuji Raje Bhonsle, bought by the Maharashtra government for Rs.47.15 lakh at a London auction a week ago, will return to India on Monday. It will be put on public display in Mumbai for the first time.

The 18th-century Firangi sword, once wielded by Raghuji Bhonsle I, will be the showpiece of a week-long exhibition that also explores the legacy of twelve heritage forts of Maharashtra. The exhibition will be held from August 19 to 25 at the P L Deshpande Maharashtra Kala Academy in Prabhadevi, between 11AM and 7PM

The sword, bought from England by cultural affairs minister Ashish Shelar, will receive a grand state welcome at the international airport, where Shelar will formally receive i...