Anant Ganpat Chougule, a 25-year-old sculptor from Sawantwadi, Maharashtra, has witnessed a significant surge in demand for his sculptures of the Maratha king Shivaji. This interest began when he shared a video of his Shivaji figurine, crafted during the Covid lockdown, online.
Chougule’s detailed statuettes, some as small as six inches, captured the attention of many viewers on YouTube. This increased visibility coincided with a growing national interest in the 17th-century king, driven by the Hindu right’s renewed efforts to highlight Shivaji’s historical role.
There’s a lot of demand,said Chougule, referring to the popularity of his creations. Although he opened a store to showcase his work, the majority of his sales occur online.
His business benefited from efforts by organizations like the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and the Bharatiya Janata Party, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. These groups aim to fortify Hindu identity by celebrating figures like Shivaji, who is credited with suppressing the Mughal rule.
Despite some using Shivaji’s history to express anti-Muslim sentiments, Chougule maintains a neutral stance. He noted that he sees no division between the Muslim community in his hometown and the historical Mughals, asserting that today, they are inseparable.
Finished pieces lie ready for purchase in Chougule’s studio, marking his successful entry into a niche market fueled by cultural and historical interest.