Kolhapur is preparing to host Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi this Saturday as he arrives to unveil a towering bronze statue of the legendary Maratha ruler, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
An aircraft issue delayed Rahul Gandhi’s visit, originally scheduled for Friday, pushing his arrival to Saturday morning.
One of the highlights of his visit includes the inauguration of the newly crafted statue at Kasba Bawada.
Standing at 12 feet tall and perched on a nine-foot pedestal, the bronze monument is likely to become a new landmark in Kolhapur, visible from afar.
Sculpted by local artist Sachin Gharge, the statue is a detailed homage to Shivaji Maharaj, featuring traditional elements such as a jiga and kalgitura, along with a sword in hand and intricate carvings at its base.
Following the unveiling, Rahul Gandhi will pay respects at the samadhi of Chhatrapati Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj, the renowned social reformer who played a pivotal role in shaping modern Maharashtra.
Later, Gandhi will address a large gathering of over 1,000 attendees at the Honour Constitution Conference.
The event will see participation from political figures, NGO representatives, and leaders from various religious and community organizations.
The statue’s design is the result of extensive research into 16 historic oil paintings of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Details like the dagger, shield, and patta have been carefully incorporated to ensure historical accuracy.
The venue’s entrance takes inspiration from Raigad Fort’s Nagarkhana, with stone carvings replicating the fort’s iconic architecture.
Additionally, the authorities placed smaller replicas of Shivaji Maharaj’s foot and hand impressions nearby for public homage, while the royal seal of the Chhatrapatis stands proudly before the statue, accompanied by a permanent saffron flagpole.
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