Eknath Shinde unveils Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's statue in Dombivli, calls Aurangzeb’s admirers ‘traitors’

KALYAN: Deputy chief minister, Eknath Shinde, on Monday slammed those who praise Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb during the unveiling of a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Dombivli East.
Speaking at the event, Shinde said, “Aurangzeb came to take land in Maharashtra, but Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was a divine force. Aurangzeb's cruelty towards Sambhaji Maharaj should not be forgotten. Anyone who praises Aurangzeb is a traitor.”
The statue, which honors the Maratha king, was unveiled in the presence of thousands of Dombivli residents and dignitaries.
The event marked the unveiling of the grand statue, which was conceptualised by Eknath Shinde's son and Kalyan Lok Sabha MP Dr Shrikant Shinde and constructed by the Kalyan Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) at the entrance of Dombivli.
During his speech, Shinde emphasised the importance of following the ideals of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. "Everyone should adopt at least one quality of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This would be a true tribute to him," he said.
Shinde also announced that the square, previously known as Gharda Circle, would now be renamed in honor of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. He praised Shivaji Maharaj’s contributions, calling him the pride of a united India and the embodiment of Hindutva.
"The roar of Hindutva is Shiv Chhatrapati. He symbolises valor, courage, bravery, sacrifice, dedication, vision, and leadership," Shinde declared, elaborating on the many qualities that make Shivaji Maharaj a revered figure.
The statue, designed uniquely to fully showcase Shivaji Maharaj giving darshan to the public, was lauded by Shinde, who congratulated MP Dr Shrikant Shinde and his team for their efforts.
He highlighted that this statue would serve as a constant reminder of history and inspire future generations. "The youth will draw strength from this statue, and Shiv devotees in Dombivli will continue to find inspiration here," he added.
Shinde also took the opportunity to reaffirm the state government’s commitment to the principles of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
"Our government is based on the thoughts of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, focusing on development and implementing people-centric schemes," he said.
On the occasion, MP Dr Shrikant Shinde presented a poem celebrating the valor of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The event saw the presence of several dignitaries, including Hindu Rashtra Sena Chief Dhananjaybhai Desai, Sangrambapu Bhandare Maharaj, MLA Rajesh More, KDMC Commissioner Indurani Jakhar, along with Shiv devotees, Shiv Sena office bearers, and a large crowd of residents from Dombivli.