Maharashtra to Build New 60-Feet Statue of Shivaji Maharaj Following Collapse at Rajkot Fort
After the unfortunate collapse of the 35-feet statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Rajkot fort, Maharashtra has moved forward with plans to construct a new, larger 60-feet statue. The initial statue, which had been inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in December 2023, failed to withstand the environmental conditions of Malvan, raising concerns about the quality of the construction.
In response to the incident, the Maharashtra Public Works Department (PWD) issued a tender to design and erect a new statue, with a budget of Rs 20 crore. The contract has now been awarded to Ram Sutar Art Creations Pvt Ltd, the same company responsible for the Statue of Unity in Gujarat, a symbol of India’s national pride.
Ram Sutar’s Firm Takes the Lead in Building the Monument
Ram Sutar, renowned for his skill in creating monumental sculptures, will oversee the construction of the new statue. The statue will be made of bronze and will stand at 60 feet tall, taller than the original monument. To ensure its durability and stability, the statue will be placed on a 3-meter-high concrete pedestal. The 8-mm thick cladding will ensure the statue’s resistance to weathering and other environmental factors.
With the expertise of Ram Sutar Art Creations, the statue is expected to be completed by 2025, creating a lasting tribute to the legacy of Shivaji Maharaj.
Political Reactions and Public Sentiment
The collapse of the initial statue led to significant political fallout, with opposition parties demanding answers and questioning the state government’s accountability. Some critics argued that the original statue was constructed hastily, with insufficient attention to quality control.
Despite the criticism, the Maharashtra government has defended its decision, emphasizing the importance of preserving and honoring the legacy of Shivaji Maharaj. The government believes that the new statue will not only symbolize the king’s enduring legacy but also attract more tourists to Malvan, boosting the local economy.
A Landmark to Honor Shivaji Maharaj’s Legacy
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is one of India’s most revered historical figures. Known for his remarkable leadership and military strategies, his contributions to Maharashtra and India are immeasurable. The new statue will stand as a powerful symbol of his contributions to the country’s history and will serve as a cultural beacon for future generations.
With its construction, the Maharashtra government aims to not only honor Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy but also to boost tourism and enhance the state’s cultural significance.
Completion and Unveiling of the Statue
The statue is expected to be completed by 2025. Upon completion, it will be unveiled in a grand ceremony, attracting people from across India and beyond. The project will have significant cultural, economic, and historical value, transforming Rajkot fort into a major landmark.
The Maharashtra government’s commitment to building a new 60-feet statue of Shivaji Maharaj reflects its dedication to preserving the memory of one of India’s greatest kings. With the expertise of Ram Sutar Art Creations, this monumental statue will stand as a lasting tribute to Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy and inspire future generations.
Saathee Global
