Amit Shah Unveils Bajirao Peshwa Statue at NDA, Hails Legacy of Swaraj

In a solemn and historic event celebrating India’s martial heritage and cultural renaissance, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah unveiled the statue of Shrimant Bajirao Peshwa I at the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Pune, Maharashtra. The ceremony was attended by a distinguished gathering, including Maharashtra Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Shri Eknath Shinde and Shri Ajit Pawar, and Union Minister of State for Cooperation Shri Murlidhar Mohol, alongside military officers, scholars, students, and members of the public.

This symbolic tribute to one of India’s most formidable military strategists took place on the hallowed grounds where the nation’s future armed forces leaders are forged—underscoring the enduring relevance of Bajirao Peshwa’s tactical genius, patriotism, and spirit of sacrifice.

“Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi”: Echoing India’s Civilisational Strength

In his address, Shri Amit Shah reinforced Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s guiding vision of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi”—a dual commitment to modern development and the preservation of India’s ancient heritage. He said the statue serves not just as a monument but as an eternal source of inspiration for the youth and soldiers of the nation.

“Our culture and history, which spans thousands of years, must be made accessible and meaningful to today’s youth,” Shri Shah said. “The voice of Swaraj arose from this very soil in Pune, and it must never fade.”

He invoked the contributions of other iconic Maharashtrian figures like Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Veer Savarkar, who carried forward the torch of Swaraj and national pride.

Why NDA is the Rightful Place for Bajirao’s Memorial

While many statues of Peshwa Bajirao exist across India, Shri Shah declared that the NDA in Pune is the most fitting place for this statue. As the training ground for India’s future military leaders, NDA symbolizes discipline, courage, and patriotism—qualities that Bajirao exemplified throughout his military career.

“If our soldiers of tomorrow draw lessons from Bajirao’s life, our borders will remain unbreachable for centuries,” Shri Shah said.

He praised Bajirao’s unparalleled record of 41 victories in 20 years, emphasizing how his mastery of speed, strategy, and battlefield innovation laid the foundation for a military legacy that is timeless.

Bajirao: The Strategist, Statesman, and Servant of Swaraj

Shri Shah painted a rich portrait of Shrimant Bajirao Peshwa I as not only a warrior but a visionary statesman and reformer. Among his many achievements, the Minister noted:

• Construction of Shaniwarwada, the seat of Maratha power

• Implementation of water management systems for sustainable development

• A lifelong dedication to the ideals of Swaraj and national pride

He added that Bajirao never dismounted from his horse during his 20-year military career, a testament to his unbreakable will and warrior discipline. He destroyed the symbols of foreign domination and worked toward a vision of India that was independent, self-governing, and rooted in Dharma.

“Bajirao fought not for personal glory, but for the motherland, religion, and Swaraj,” Shri Shah said. “His legacy cannot be replicated—it is immortal.”

The Continuum of Swaraj: From Shivaji to the Peshwas

Linking Bajirao’s contribution to the broader national struggle for Swaraj, Shri Shah paid homage to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who ignited the flame of Hindavi Swaraj. He observed that without the century-long efforts of the Peshwas, Shivaji’s mission might have been extinguished.

He emphasized the continuity of purpose and dedication that defined the Maratha movement, which laid the groundwork for later freedom struggles and shaped the very idea of India.

“When Despair Creeps In, Think of Bajirao and Shivaji”

Ending on a deeply motivational note, Shri Shah reflected on the psychological strength and resilience offered by historical heroes.

“Whenever despair enters the soul, remember the valour of Shivaji and Bajirao—it drives away all doubt,” he said.

He reminded the gathering that building a great India, as envisioned by Shivaji Maharaj, is now the shared responsibility of 140 crore Indians. He urged citizens and especially the youth to take inspiration from such historic figures to pursue a life of duty, sacrifice, and national service.

Referring to modern examples like Operation Sindoor, Shri Shah reiterated that India’s armed forces and leadership remain steadfast in preserving peace and sovereignty.

A Statue That Speaks of Purpose and Patriotism

The statue of Bajirao Peshwa at NDA is more than a commemorative structure—it is a beacon of purpose for cadets, a reminder of timeless values, and a call to action for every Indian. In Bajirao, the nation finds a figure who represents strategic brilliance, relentless courage, and unwavering dedication to Bharat Mata.

As India strides confidently toward its centenary of independence, leaders like Shrimant Bajirao Peshwa I remind us that the road to greatness is paved with valor, vision, and sacrifice.