Row over actor Rahul Solapurkar’s remarks on Shivaji’s escape from Agra
The Hindu
Actor Rahul Solapurkar's controversial claim about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's escape sparks debate, protests, and backlash from historians and activists.
A recent claim by actor Rahul Solapurkar regarding the historic escape of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj from Agra has ignited widespread debate and criticism. Solapurkar, a trustee of the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute in Pune, suggested that Shivaji Maharaj’s famed escape was not achieved using sweet containers, as popularly believed, but rather by bribing several of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s commanders. This assertion has sparked outrage among historians, activists, and admirers of the Maratha king.
The controversy escalated when members of the Akhand Maratha Samaj staged a protest at the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute, demanding Mr. Solapurkar’s removal from his position as trustee.
In response to the backlash, the actor issued a video apology, expressing regret if his remarks had hurt the sentiments of Shivaji Maharaj’s admirers. Following the protest, Pune Police have heightened security measures outside his residence in the Kothrud area.
BJP MP Udayanraje Bhosale, the 13th descendant of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, has stirred further controversy with his strong reaction to actor’s remarks. Mr. Bhosale, known for his staunch defence of Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy, stated that individuals making “derogatory” statements against the revered ruler deserve severe punishment.
The BJP MP asked, “How can anyone dare to insult the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj? Why are the police protecting someone who has disrespected our great king?”
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