Hindu nationalists adopt Shivaji as anti-Muslim emblem in India

Hindu nationalist groups in India have recently embraced 17th-century king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as a symbol in their campaign against Muslims. This movement gained momentum with the erection of numerous statues across cities, particularly in Telangana and Ladakh, as reported on May 29, 2026.

Rise of Shivaji Statues Across India

Since 2022, hundreds of statues of Shivaji, some reaching heights of up to 27 metres, have been installed in various regions. Many of these installations occur with local government support or even military assistance, as evidenced by a video showing the Indian army erecting a statue near the Line of Control on March 5, 2026.

• Statues erected in Telangana and Ladakh
• Height of some statues: 27 metres
• Military involvement in installations

The celebrations surrounding these statues often feature large gatherings of supporters from the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a key organization within the Hindu nationalist movement. On May 29, 2026, a parade through Sangareddy showcased the fervor of these groups as they celebrated the unveiling of a statue.

Shivaji's Historical Significance and Political Symbolism

Shivaji holds a prominent place in Maharashtra history, known for his military campaigns against the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. However, the narrative surrounding Shivaji has been reshaped by the BJP and RSS, casting him as a defender of Hindus against Muslims. According to Rohit Chopra, a communications professor, this reimagining serves a broader political agenda aimed at establishing India as a de facto Hindu state.

“There has been this Hindu right-wing project aimed at making India a de facto Hindu state,” Chopra stated.

Chopra highlights that the portrayal of Shivaji is historically inaccurate, conflating modern nationalism with earlier political realities. He notes that both Hindus and Muslims fought alongside each other in regional battles during Shivaji's time.

Exclusion of Minorities in Public Life

The surge in Shivaji statues reflects a pattern of exclusion for religious minorities, particularly Muslims and Christians, in Indian society. Chopra emphasizes that this project does not directly insult these groups but serves to marginalize them in public culture.

Since the BJP's rise to power in 2014, policies perceived as discriminatory against minorities have increased. The erection of Shivaji statues contributes to a cultural narrative that sidelines these communities.