Tokyo: In a historic moment of Indo-Japanese cultural exchange, the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was officially unveiled in Tokyo on March 8. The grand ceremony was conducted by Swami Govind Devgiriji Maharaj, Treasurer, Ram Janmbhoomi Trust, in the presence of dignitaries, cultural scholars, and Shivabhakts from around the world.
The 8.5-foot statue, crafted from special steel and fiber and weighing 450 kg, was brought to Japan as part of the Indo-Japan Shivaswaraj Rath Yatra, which aimed to spread the legacy of Shivaji Maharaj and unite Shivabhakts globally. Prior to its arrival in Tokyo, the statue was honored in several Indian cities, including Ahmedabad, where it was received with great enthusiasm.
The installation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s statue in Japan marks a new chapter in Indo-Japanese relations, signifying the admiration for his leadership and vision beyond India’s borders. Speaking at the event, Swami Govind Devgiriji Maharaj highlighted Shivaji Maharaj’s ideals of governance, valor, and commitment to dharma, emphasizing their relevance in today’s world.
Uttam Ram Mandare, a social worker from Pune who played a key role in the initiative, stated, “This project was inspired by the statue in Kupwara, Jammu and Kashmir. Our goal was to bring Shivaji Maharaj’s teachings to a global platform, and Tokyo now proudly hosts his grand presence.”
Ellisbridge MLA Amit Shah, who had earlier welcomed the statue in Ahmedabad, hailed the installation as a “moment of honor for all Hindus.” “The presence of Shivaji Maharaj’s statue in Tokyo strengthens our cultural bonds with Japan and serves as a beacon of inspiration for future generations,” he remarked.
The unveiling of the statue stands as a tribute to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s enduring legacy, bridging cultures and reinforcing the timeless principles of leadership, resilience, and unity.
