Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde unveils Shivaji Maharaj statue in J&K’s Kupwara

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, along with other dignitaries, inaugurated a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir on November 7. The statue, a symbol of cultural pride, was installed at the 41 National Rifle (Maratha LI) camp, which is located in close proximity to the Line of Control (LoC) separating India and Pakistan.

CM Shinde’s Pride in the Monument

• During the inauguration ceremony, Chief Minister Shinde expressed his pride in having a magnificent equestrian statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj situated near the India-Pakistan border.
• This event signifies the importance of preserving cultural heritage even in challenging regions.

Distinguished Guests in Attendance

• The inaugural event saw the presence of notable personalities, including Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Sudhir Mangantiwar and Lt. Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha.
• Their participation added significance to the occasion, highlighting the unity and cultural exchange between the two regions.

Diwali Celebration with Jawans

• As part of the celebration, Chief Minister Shinde also shared the joy of Diwali Faral (traditional Diwali snacks) with the soldiers stationed at the camp.
• This gesture reflects the spirit of camaraderie and festivity during the festival of lights.

Unique Sourcing of Materials

• The statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj holds a special connection to Maharashtra.
• The soil and water used in the statue’s construction were sourced from five different forts across the state, including Shivneri, Torna, Rajgarh, Pratapgarh, and Raigarh.
• This unique touch enhances the statue’s cultural authenticity.

Collaborative Efforts

• The statue’s creation was made possible through a collaborative effort between the Amhi Punekar Foundation and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Smark Samiti.
• It symbolizes the dedication and cooperation of organizations and individuals in preserving historical legacies.

Historical Foundation Stone Laying

• The foundation stone of the statue was laid on Gudi Padwa, the Maharashtrian New Year Day, at the Indian Army camp.
• This marked the beginning of the statue’s journey to Kupwara, further strengthening the cultural connection between the regions.

Notable Previous Installations

• This isn’t the first instance of honoring Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Jammu and Kashmir.
• In January 2022, the Maratha Regiment unveiled two other statues of the legendary king, with one of them being installed at an astonishing altitude of 14,800 feet above sea level near the Line of Control.
• These installations continue to foster cultural exchanges and historical remembrance in challenging terrains.

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