Shivaji as a Symbol for Nationalists
Statues of Shivaji, the founder of the Maratha empire, are increasingly appearing across India. Known for his opposition against the Mughal dynasty, Shivaji now serves as a powerful symbol for nationalists looking to reshape the nation’s identity. Common scenes like visitors taking selfies at the Shivaji statue in Malvan, Maharashtra illustrate the growing interest in this historical figure.
Unplanned Erection of a Shivaji Statue
On March 20, 2022, the residents of Bodhan, a town in South India, were surprised by the sudden appearance of a statue of Shivaji. Standing nearly 10 feet tall, the statue was erected at a bustling intersection without official permission. The unauthorized installation led to stone-pelting conflicts between groups of Hindus and Muslims, prompting local authorities to impose a ban on public gatherings to prevent escalation.
The Story Behind the Statue
Local activist Gopi Kishan was identified as the orchestrator behind this audacious act. Kishan, associated with an extreme Hindu right-wing group, planned the installation carefully but didn’t incite violence intentionally. Though his petition to erect the statue received informal support from officials, bureaucratic hesitation due to potential communal tensions delayed formal approval.
Intentions and Controversy
Kishan emphasized respect for Shivaji, highlighting his role in resisting the Mughal dynasty that once ruled large parts of India. “Had he not fought against the Mughals then, the word Hindu would not have existed today,” Kishan remarked. Despite getting in trouble with authorities, the statue remains standing, marking its place in Bodhan.
Gopi Kishan organized a guerrilla-style operation to put a Shivaji statue in Bodhan.