Shivaji’s Wagh Nakh to Return to India After 200 Years

The wagh nakh (tiger claw), a sacred relic of the Maratha warrior king Shivaji, is set to return to India after more than 200 years. The relic is currently on display at the British Museum in London, but it will be repatriated to India in a ceremony later this year.

The wagh nakh is a tiger’s claw that was said to have been given to Shivaji by the goddess Durga. It is believed to have brought him great power and protection in battle. The relic was taken from Shivaji’s tomb in the 18th century by the British East India Company.

The decision to repatriate the wagh nakh was made by the British Museum in consultation with the Indian government. The museum said that it was important to return the relic to its rightful home, where it could be worshipped by the people of India.

The repatriation of the wagh nakh is a significant event for India. It is a gesture of goodwill from the British government and a recognition of the importance of Indian culture. The relic is expected to be placed on display at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS) in Mumbai.

The return of the wagh nakh is a welcome development for many Indians. It is a reminder of their rich history and culture, and it is a symbol of their strength and resilience. The relic is sure to be a popular draw for visitors to the CSMVS, and it will help to keep the memory of Shivaji alive for generations to come.

In addition to the wagh nakh, the British Museum is also returning other Indian artifacts, including a statue of the Hindu god Vishnu and a set of Mughal miniature paintings. The repatriation of these artifacts is a sign of the growing cultural ties between India and the United Kingdom.