The announcement was made on the occasion of the coronation anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, originally held on June 6, 1674. The proposal has already received support from Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, according to Israeli Consul General Yaniv Revach.
Describing the initiative, Revach stated that the proposed memorial would represent the growing friendship between India and Israel while also acknowledging historical links between Maharashtra and the Jewish community. He emphasized that descendants of Indian Jews today play a significant role in Israeli society.
“We believe that a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Israel would serve as a powerful symbol of the close ties between Israel and India. Such a monument would be especially meaningful given the historical links between Maharashtra and the Indian Jewish community,” Revach said in his communication addressed to the Chief Minister.
He further noted that the Maharashtra government would play a crucial role in ensuring the statue accurately reflects the legacy of the Maratha ruler. According to Revach, discussions with the state administration have already begun, and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has extended immediate support to the proposal.
“To make the memorial worthy of Maharaj’s legacy, we sought cooperation from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and he immediately agreed to provide it,” Revach stated, adding that official collaboration has been requested for historical references, artistic consultation, design considerations, and other necessary inputs to ensure authenticity.
Revach also expressed that the initiative could evolve into a broader public project. He emphasized that the statue is envisioned not only as a diplomatic symbol but also as a people-driven cultural bridge between the two nations.
Explaining his personal interest, Revach said his engagement with Maratha history deepened after arriving in Mumbai. He added that following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s landmark visit to Israel, the Israeli government made efforts to strengthen people-to-people relations between the two countries.
He highlighted Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as an exceptional historical figure known for governance, courage, religious tolerance, naval strength, and protection of his people. According to him, these qualities continue to inspire generations across India and beyond.
Revach further stated that the proposed statue is also intended to increase awareness of Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy among the Israeli population. He noted that strengthening cultural understanding would further enhance friendship and mutual respect between the two nations.
If realized, the statue would stand as a unique cultural landmark in Israel, symbolizing enduring ties between India and Israel. The initiative underscores a growing emphasis on historical recognition, cultural exchange, and diplomatic goodwill, reinforcing shared values of leadership, courage, and mutual respect.
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