“Shivaji Maharaj’s Dog Memorial Sparks Controversy: Call For Removal From Raigad Fort”

Sambhajiraje Chhatrapati urges Maharashtra CM to remove Waghya the dog’s monument at Raigad Fort, citing lack of historical evidence and heritage concerns.

March 24, 2025: Dog Memorial at Raigad Fort Sparks Heritage Debate, Sambhajiraje Chhatrapati Demands Its Removal

A nearly century-old memorial of a dog named Waghya, located beside the samadhi of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Raigad Fort, has become the centre of a fresh historical controversy.

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Sambhajiraje Chhatrapati, a descendant of the Maratha royal family and former Rajya Sabha MP, has written to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, demanding the removal of the dog’s memorial by May 31. In his letter dated March 22, he cited the absence of historical records and called the monument an “encroachment” on a protected heritage site.

The structure in question was erected in the 1920s to honour Waghya — a mixed-breed dog believed, by legend, to have belonged to Shivaji Maharaj. The story suggests that after Shivaji’s death, the loyal dog leapt into his master’s funeral pyre and immolated himself — an act of eternal devotion.

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However, Sambhajiraje argues there is no documentary or archaeological evidence supporting the existence of such a dog, let alone this legend. He stated, “As there is no such evidence, it is an encroachment on the fort, which is legally preserved as a heritage structure.”

He further warned that since the structure is now over 100 years old, it could soon receive legal protection under the Archaeological Survey of India’s (ASI) heritage norms. He urged for its removal before that status is granted.

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“It is unfortunate and demeans the legacy of the great Shivaji Maharaj,” Sambhajiraje stated, echoing concerns that fictional stories risk diluting authentic Maratha history.

While many believe Waghya’s tale to be one of legend and folklore, the debate raises a larger question: Should monuments based on oral tradition — but lacking in verified documentation — be preserved alongside historically validated memorials?

The state government has not yet issued an official response.

Tags:

Shivaji Maharaj, Raigad Fort, Waghya Dog, Sambhajiraje Chhatrapati, Maharashtra politics, Devendra Fadnavis, Maratha history, ASI, Raigad controversy, Indian heritage sites, animal memorials India

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