Raghuji Bhosale I

May 1, 2025

Recently, the Maharashtra government successfully reclaimed the historic sword of Raghuji Bhosale I at a Sotheby’s auction in London. This event marks milestone as it is the first time Maharashtra has retrieved a historical artifact from an international auction. The sword, an 18th-century piece, was auctioned with an estimated value of £6,000 to £8,000 but was secured for £38,100, totalling approximately Rs 47.15 lakh after additional costs.

Features of the Sword

The sword features a European-style single-edged blade that is slightly curved. It includes two fullers, which are grooves running along the blade. The spine of the sword is adorned with gold inlay featuring an inscription in Devanagari script. This inscription reads “Shrimant Raghuji Bhosale Sena Saheb Subah,” indicating its ceremonial significance. The title “Sena Saheb Subah” was conferred by the Chhatrapatis of Satara, suggesting the sword was a prestigious gift.

The Nagpur Bhonsles

The Nagpur Bhonsle family played important role in the expansion of the Maratha Empire, akin to other prominent clans like the Peshwas and Holkars. They claimed descent from Udaipur’s Sisodia Rajputs. The family was influential in the region, particularly after the death of Shivaji Maharaj, when they gained prominence in the Maratha hierarchy.

Raghuji Bhosale I

Political Rise (1728–1730):

Raghuji Bhonsle I emerged as a key Maratha leader in the 18th century.
He gained support from Chhatrapati Shahu in 1728 to confront his uncle Kanhoji.
After successfully besieging Bham in 1730, he established dominance in Berar and Gondwana, securing rights to collect taxes and new titles.
This victory laid the foundation for the Bhonsle dynasty’s rule in Nagpur.

Control Over Odisha (1751):

With the decline of Mughal power, Raghuji Bhonsle expanded Maratha influence.
Following a treaty with Nawab Alivardi Khan in 1751, Odisha came under Maratha control.
This marked the beginning of Maratha administration in Odisha, including management of the Jagannath Temple in Puri.

Restoration of Jagannath Temple:

Raghuji revived temple activities that had declined under Mughal rule.
He:
- Appointed priests and ensured daily rituals.
- Donated Rs 27,000 worth land revenue (Satais Hazari Mahal).
- Sponsored the Mohun Bhog tradition initiated by his mother.
- Built 22+ dharamshalas for pilgrims.
- Spent Rs 20,000 annually on grand celebrations.
- Initiated Annachhatra (free food) scheme.
- Improved road connectivity to Puri.

Territorial Expansion:

Raghuji led campaigns in Bengal (1745–1755), and expanded Maratha rule to:
- Odisha, Bihar, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.
The Nagpur Bhonsle kingdom covered approx. 2.17 lakh sq km at its peak.
He played a crucial role in reclaiming and restoring temples in Odisha and Bengal.

Historical Significance of the Sword

The sword holds immense historical value due to its craftsmanship and the inscription that identifies its ownership. Unlike many medieval Indian weapons, this sword is decorated and bears the maker’s mark. The European blade reflects the global arms trade of the 18th century, denoting the blend of Indian and European influences in weaponry.

How the Sword Left India

Following the 1817 Battle of Sitabuldi, the British East India Company defeated the Nagpur Bhonsles. The British looted the Bhonsle treasury, seizing numerous treasures, including this sword. Experts suggest it may have been part of the war loot or a diplomatic gift to the British after the battle, marking loss for the Bhonsle dynasty.

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