The ongoing expenditure of lakhs of Rupees on the upkeep of Aurangzeb’s tomb stands in stark contrast to the paltry aid allocated for Maharashtra’s historic and cultural landmarks, igniting public outrage.
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has so far spent over Rs 6.50 lakh on Aurangzeb’s tomb, including Rs 2,55,160 in 2021-22 and Rs 2,00,626 till November 2022-23. Meanwhile, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s Sindhudurg Fort – an enduring symbol of Swarajya – receives a meagre Rs 250 per month in Government aid.
This glaring imbalance has prompted calls for urgent policy corrections. The Hindu Janajagruti Samiti has strongly opposed the continued financial backing of Aurangzeb’s tomb, demanding instead that the Government prioritise sites integral to Maharashtra’s historical identity. “The continued use of taxpayer money to maintain Aurangzeb’s tomb is not just unjust but an insult to the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This needs to stop immediately,” stated Mr Sunil Ghanwat (State Coordinator of the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti). He further warned that “failure to act on this matter will lead to widespread protests from the Hindu community.”
The call to redirect funds away from Aurangzeb’s tomb comes at a time of heightened debate over Maharashtra’s cultural identity. Recent controversies surrounding the portrayal of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj in ‘Chhaava’ – a film criticised for historical inaccuracies – have fuelled public sentiment demanding greater respect for the Maratha king’s legacy.
Additionally, Samajwadi Party leader Abu Azmi’s suspension from the Maharashtra Assembly over his remarks praising Aurangzeb has intensified the discourse, making the demand to defund Aurangzeb’s tomb even more compelling. Azmi has called the suspension arbitrary and expressed concerns for his family’s safety.
“At a time when the identity of Maharashtra is being debated and distorted, the Government must take decisive steps to reinforce its commitment to our history,” Mr Ghanwat asserted. “Why should public money be spent on a ruler who symbolised tyranny, while our own icons are neglected ?” “Maharashtra’s heritage is not up for compromise. Every Rupee spent should reflect our pride and respect for history,” Mr Ghanwat concluded.
The demand to reallocate resources towards Maharashtra’s historic landmarks, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s temple and Sindhudurg Fort, is not just a matter of financial prudence but also of cultural justice.
(Courtesy : thedraftworld.blogspot.com; 8.3.2025)
