New Statue to Stand Tall

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New Statue to Stand Tall
New Statue to Stand Tall

The Collapse and Aftermath: Political and Public Reactions

In August 2024, a monumental 35-feet statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Rajkot fort in Malvan collapsed under mysterious circumstances, prompting intense political scrutiny and public outcry. The statue, inaugurated just eight months earlier by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was part of a high-profile initiative to honor the Maratha warrior king.

Opposition parties quickly pounced on the incident, accusing the ruling government of neglecting its responsibilities and questioning the quality of the statue’s construction. Meanwhile, the Maharashtra Public Works Department (PWD) faced criticism for not ensuring proper monitoring of the project. As investigations continue, the collapse has ignited a debate on the handling of state-funded monuments.

Maharashtra’s Response: New Statue to be Built by Ram Sutar’s Firm

In an effort to rectify the situation, the Maharashtra government has awarded the contract for a new statue to Ram Sutar Art Creations Pvt Ltd, a renowned firm headed by sculptor Ram Sutar. The firm, famous for building the Statue of Unity, has now been tasked with creating a new 60-feet statue of Shivaji Maharaj, set to rise at Rajkot fort.

The new statue will be made from bronze, with a thickness of 8-mm cladding for durability. It will be mounted on a 3-meter-high concrete pedestal, ensuring the statue’s stability and strength in the coastal climate of Sindhudurg district. The larger monument aims to both restore public faith in the project and honor Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy with grandeur.

Sculptor Ram Sutar: Master of Monumental Art

The selection of Ram Sutar’s firm was not coincidental. With extensive experience in crafting large-scale statues, including the Statue of Unity, Sutar’s firm brings unmatched expertise to this project. His attention to detail and innovative approach to monument design make him the perfect choice for building a statue of such significance.

Anil Sutar, the managing director, confirmed the project’s initiation, emphasizing the firm’s commitment to ensuring that the new statue will be an enduring symbol of the Maratha king’s legacy. The new design will incorporate both artistic vision and advanced engineering techniques, ensuring its lasting durability.

Public Sentiment: Mixed Reactions to the New Monument

While many in Maharashtra welcome the news of a new, larger Shivaji statue, others express concerns about the government’s priorities. Some argue that funds allocated for monumental projects should instead be directed toward addressing critical infrastructure issues in the state. Nonetheless, there is little doubt that the new statue will become a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from across India and beyond.

A Monument to History: The Cultural Impact of the New Statue

The statue of Shivaji Maharaj will stand as a powerful reminder of his leadership and the historical significance of the Maratha Empire. As Maharashtra’s most revered king, Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy is deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of the state. The new statue will serve as a beacon of pride for the people of Maharashtra and will become a key symbol of the region’s history and culture.

Timeline and Expectations for the New Statue

The project, estimated to cost Rs 20 crore, is expected to be completed within a year, with the unveiling scheduled for 2025. As construction progresses, all eyes will be on Rajkot fort, eagerly awaiting the completion of a monument that will honor one of India’s greatest leaders.

Despite the setback caused by the collapse of the original statue, the decision to build a new 60-feet statue of Shivaji Maharaj at Rajkot fort represents the Maharashtra government’s commitment to preserving the legacy of the Maratha king. With the expertise of Ram Sutar’s firm, the new statue is set to become a lasting symbol of pride, history, and cultural heritage.