Mumbai, July 8 -- Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar announced in the Maharashtra Assembly today that the state government has successfully acquired the historic sword of Maratha general Raghuji Raje Bhosale from a London auction house, with plans for its ceremonial return before August 15.
The gold-tipped weapon, bearing Bhosale's engraved name, was wielded by the Nagpur-based commander on 18th-century battlefields and later earned him the title 'Sena Sahib Sabha' from Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj.
Shelar confirmed the artefact was secured through Sotheby's April 29 auction for approximately Rs 69,94,437, including taxes.
The acquisition followed swift intervention by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who expedited permits enabling re...