Women’s Namaz at Shivneri Fort Sparks Controversy
A group of women offering namaz at Pune’s historic Shivneri Fort—the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj—triggered a major backlash after BJP MP Udayanraje Bhosale conducted a “shuddhikaran” (purification) ritual using cow urine. The incident has reignited debates over religious freedom, cultural appropriation, and Hindu majoritarianism in India.
What Happened at Shivneri Fort?
Shivneri Fort, a symbol of Maratha pride, became a flashpoint when a women’s interfaith group performed Islamic prayers on its premises. The act was intended as a gesture of unity but drew sharp criticism from right-wing groups, who called it an “insult” to Shivaji’s legacy.
BJP MP Udayanraje Bhosale, a descendant of Shivaji, led protests and conducted a purification ceremony with cow urine, claiming the fort is a “Hindu sacred space.” Viral videos of the ritual intensified the debate, with Bhosale stating, “Shivneri Fort cannot be a place for namaz.”
Mixed Reactions: Political and Social Divide
- BJP & Hindutva Supporters praised Bhosale, arguing historical sites linked to Shivaji should follow Hindu traditions. Maharashtra BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule backed the move.
- Opposition Leaders & Activists condemned the act as “anti-secular.” NCP’s Mahesh Tapase called it “unconstitutional,” while AIMIM’s Asaduddin Owaisi questioned, “Is India only for one community?”
- The Women’s Group defended their prayers as peaceful, stating they “respect all faiths” and meant no provocation.
Legal & Ethical Concerns
- Religious Rights vs. Historical Sentiment – Can public monuments restrict multi-faith practices?
- Cow Urine Ritual – Critics call it “stigmatizing” and “anti-Muslim.”
- Political Agenda? Analysts suggest such incidents polarize voters ahead of elections.
Did Shivaji Support Religious Exclusion?
Contrary to Bhosale’s claims, Shivaji Maharaj was known for pluralism, employing Muslim generals and protecting all faiths. Historians argue the purification ritual distorts his inclusive legacy.
Public Outrage & Social Media Storm
Hashtags like #ShivajiForAll and #FortOfBigotry trended, with some supporting Bhosale and others sharing Shivaji’s secular policies as a rebuke.
What’s Next?
Civil society groups plan protests, while the Maharashtra government faces pressure to clarify its stance. Will dialogue or division prevail?
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