Nagpur: Maharashtra's Cultural Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar announced that the Wagh Nakh (tiger claw dagger) used by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to kill Mughal general Afzal Khan in 1659 will be exhibited in Nagpur and other parts of the state over the next three years. In Nagpur, the Wagh Nakh will be showcased at Ajab Bangla (Central Museum) in Civil Lines.

Mungantiwar said that Shivaji’s legendary weapon would arrive in India on July 19. It will be on display in India for three years, starting with a grand inaugural event in Satara, attended by Maharaj’s descendants.

Currently displayed at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, the Wagh Nakh will be showcased in India without any rental fee. Mungantiwar clarified that the government only spent ₹14.08 lakh on travel to London and signing the agreement with the museum.

Addressing rumors about the authenticity of the Wagh Nakh, historian Indrajeet Sawant noted that communications with the Victoria and Albert Museum indicated uncertainty over whether this specific dagger was used by Shivaji Maharaj to kill Afzal Khan.