Maharashtra Seeks Return of Jagdamba Sword for Shivaji's Anniversary

In anticipation of the 350th anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s coronation, Maharashtra is working with the Indian government to temporarily bring back the ceremonial sword Jagdamba from the United Kingdom. The intricate, gem-studded sword, symbolizing the Maratha warrior king’s legacy, currently resides at Saint James’s Palace in London and was presented to the British Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII) in 1875-76 by Shivaji IV.

A Symbol of Pride and Heritage

Jagdamba, one of Shivaji Maharaj’s three legendary swords, holds profound significance in Maratha history. Adorned with diamonds and rubies, the sword exemplifies Shivaji’s leadership and Maratha valor. Sudhir Mungantiwar, Maharashtra’s Cultural Affairs Minister, emphasized the sword’s sentimental value, stating, “It is touched by the Maharaj and is extremely valuable to us.” Mungantiwar plans to travel to the U.K. in May to negotiate the sword’s temporary return, with the Indian government acting as a guarantor. The state hopes to house the sword in Maharashtra for at least one year to allow the public to experience this vital piece of their heritage firsthand.

Historical Background

Shivaji IV, only 11 at the time, presented the Jagdamba sword to the Prince of Wales as a “relic of the Maratha Chief Shivaji” during the prince’s visit to India. The prince, an avid collector of historical weapons, reciprocated by gifting Shivaji IV a sword, now displayed in the New Palace Museum at Kolhapur. The Jagdamba sword, crafted in the 18th century, features an ornate hilt decorated with heavy floral designs and encrusted with diamonds and rubies, as well as an old European blade with unique engravings.

Efforts to Reclaim the Sword

Efforts to bring back Jagdamba began with freedom fighter Bal Gangadhar Tilak, and Maharashtra’s first Chief Minister, Yashwantrao Chavan, also pursued its return post-Independence. Mungantiwar sees this as a long-awaited opportunity to finally reclaim the sword in honor of Shivaji’s coronation anniversary on June 6, 2024. He envisions statewide celebrations to mark the occasion if the sword is successfully returned.

A Cultural Legacy

Jagdamba, along with Shivaji’s other swords Bhavani and Tulja, represents Maharashtra’s martial heritage and Shivaji’s historic reign. Currently, Bhavani is housed at Satara, and Tulja at Sindhudurg Fort. The temporary return of Jagdamba would provide the people of Maharashtra a unique connection to Shivaji’s legacy, allowing them to celebrate this symbol of Maratha pride in their homeland.

As Maharashtra awaits the final steps to secure the sword’s return, this endeavor underscores the state’s dedication to preserving and honoring its cultural heritage for future generations.