Statues of India 2: Shivaji statue, Vijayapura

Shivaji Circle, Vijayapura.

Chhatrapati Shivaji statue might be found in many parts of India. However Shivaji has close link with Vijayapura. Shahaji Bhonsle, Shivaji's father was a general under Deccan sultanates. At one time Shahaji lead the military of Adil Shahis of Bijapur.

Also read about few other Statues of India.

Shivaji's victory over Afzal Khan, the Adil Shahi general of Bijapur marked the raise of Shivaji's supremacy.

Afzal khan sent for Shivaji to discuss and bring to an end the clash between both forces. Shivaji knew how Afzal Khan murdered Kasturi Ranga of Sira during their meeting to discuss peaceful surrender. Shivaji carried a dagger under is cloth and killed Afzal Khan who tried to crush him. There are two sides to this story with each accusing other of treachery.

An interesting fact is though Shivaji captured huge land and lead the Maratha army for long time he officially became king in 1674 that is only 6 years before he died.

Honors among many other:

Indian government is building a memorial for the warrior king in Maharashtra. When finished this will be the tallest statue in the world surpassing the Buddha statue in China. Buddha statue is 420ft including the 66ft throne where as this will be 690ft.