A controversy has erupted after Bageshwar Dham’s Dhirendra Krishna Shastri made remarks about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj during an RSS-organised event in Nagpur, drawing sharp criticism from opposition parties.
According to reports, Shastri claimed in his speech that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, after being fatigued from multiple battles towards the end of his life, allegedly entrusted the administration of the Maratha kingdom to Saint Ramdas Swami. The statement has triggered a political row, with opposition leaders accusing him of distorting historical facts.
Opposition parties, including the Congress, strongly objected to the claim, stating that there is no credible historical evidence suggesting that Shivaji Maharaj handed over his kingdom to Ramdas Swami. They argued that established historical records do not support any such transfer of authority.
Maharashtra Congress spokesperson Sachin Sawant criticised the remarks, calling them historically inaccurate and an insult to the legacy of Shivaji Maharaj. He alleged that attempts were being made to reinterpret Maratha history for ideological purposes and demanded accountability.
Sawant further questioned the historical basis of the association between Shivaji Maharaj and Ramdas Swami, claiming that references to a close mentor-disciple relationship are disputed in historical literature. He also criticised the platform given to Shastri at the event and demanded that action be taken over the remarks.
He added that those in positions of power should intervene, stating that such statements should not be allowed to spread misinformation about revered historical figures.
During the same event, Shastri also made another remark, saying, “Have four kids and give one to the RSS,” which has also drawn attention and sparked further debate.
The controversy has intensified political tensions in Maharashtra, with opposition leaders calling for an FIR and stricter action, while the remarks continue to be widely discussed across political and public circles.