Wagh Nakh
Why in news ?
In a significant development, the UK authorities have agreed to return the iconic ‘waghnakh,’ a dagger shaped like tiger claws used by Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
About
- The ‘waghnakh,'(Tiger Claws) an artifact made of steel with four claws mounted on a bar and two rings for the first and fourth fingers.
- This weapon holds historical significance as it was used by ShivajiMaharaj to kill Afzal Khan, the general of the Bijapur sultanate in 1659.
- It was designed to slash through skin and muscle.
- It holds a special place in the history for the people of Maharashtra.
- Its return symbolizes a significant milestone in the state’s cultural legacy and the reverence it holds for its iconic leader, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Chhatrapati Shivaji’s Defense with the ‘Wagh Nakh’:
- Chhatrapati Shivaji faced Afzal Khan, a Bijapur general assigned to stop Shivaji’s strong campaigns in the Konkan. Khan suggested a peaceful meeting, but Shivaji, anticipating danger, came prepared.
- He concealed a ‘wagh nakh’ and wore chainmail (armour made from small metal rings) under his attire. When Khan attacked, Shivaji’s ‘wagh nakh’ struck, resulting in Khan’s death, ultimately securing Shivaji’s victory.
Administration under Shivaji:
Central Administration:
- He established a centralised administration with a council of eight ministers (Ashtapradhan) who were directly responsible to him and advised him on various matters of the state.
- The Peshwa, also known as the Mukhya Pradhan, originally headed the advisory council of Raja Shivaji.
Provincial administration:
- Shivaji divided his kingdom into four provinces. Each province was further divided into districts and villages. The village was the basic unit of administration and was governed by a Deshpande or Patel with the help of a village panchayat.
- Like the centre, there was a committee or council of eight ministers with Sar-i- ‘Karkun’ or the ‘prantpati’ (Head of the province).
Source – The Hindu
