Israel to install Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue, calls it symbol of India-Israel friendship

Israel has announced plans to install a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, calling it a symbol of the growing friendship between India and Israel.

The announcement was made by the Consulate General of Israel in Mumbai on Shivrajyabhishek Din, which marks the coronation anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on June 6, 1674.

Israel’s Consul General in Mumbai, Yaniv Revach, said the statue would serve as a “powerful symbol” of the close ties between the two countries. He also said the memorial would be meaningful because of the historical links between Maharashtra and the Indian Jewish community, many of whose descendants now live in Israel.

Revach said he had sought the support of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for the project, including help with historical references, artistic consultation, design inputs, and other assistance needed to bring the memorial to life.

He said the project could later be turned into a people’s initiative and would help create greater awareness about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Israel.

Fadnavis welcomed the announcement and thanked Israel for the initiative. He said the Maharashtra government would extend full support for the project.

Revach said that after coming to Mumbai, he began reading about the history of the Maratha Empire and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy. He described Shivaji Maharaj as an extraordinary leader known for good governance, courage, religious tolerance, naval strength, and the protection of his people.

According to reports, Israeli officials are also looking at placing the statue in one of Israel’s major cities. Revach also suggested that books on Shivaji Maharaj could be translated into Hebrew so more people in Israel can learn about his life and legacy.