Iconic Sword of Raghuji Bhosale Returns to India

Context: Recently, the Maharashtra Government purchased the historic sword of Raghuji Bhonsle at an auction in London.

Who was Raghuji Bhosale-I?

• Raghuji Bhosale I was an important figure in 18th-century Maratha history.
• He was backed by Chhatrapati Shahu in 1728 to challenge his uncle Kanhoji Bhosale.
• He won a major victory in the Siege of Bham (1730) – a turning point that solidified his power.

Key Contributions of Raghuji Bhosale I

• Captured Odisha (Orissa) in 1751 after a treaty with Nawab Alivardi Khan.
  • After taking control of Odisha, he played a pivotal role in reviving the Shree Jagannath Temple’s activities.
• Led campaigns in Bengal (1745–1755).
• Expanded control into Bihar, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh & Chhattisgarh.

About Nagpur Bhosale

• A royal Maratha clan (like the Peshwas, Holkars, Scindias and Gaikwads).
• They were also known as Hinganikar due to their ancestral connection to the Hingani region near Pune.
• Bhonsle played a major role in expanding the Maratha Empire in Central and Eastern India.

How the Sword of Raghuji Bhosale Left India?

• After the Battle of Sitabuldi (1817), the British defeated the Nagpur Bhonsles.
• Bhonsle Palace was looted, and treasures, including weapons, were taken by the British.

• The sword may have been:
  • Looted war treasure or A gift to British officials during or after the defeat.

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