Rare Weapon Collection Showcased in Pune to Mark Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Birth Anniversary
Reported by Saakshi Pandhare & Shoaib Tadvi
Shivajinagar, 20th February 2026: On the occasion of the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a grand Shivkaleen Shastra Pradarshan (exhibition of Maratha-era weapons) was organised at the Santobai Mata Mandir premises in Shivajinagar, Pune, on Thursday (19th February). The exhibition featured a rare private collection of historical weapons owned by Samadhan Sonalkar from Bhadgaon in Kagal taluka of Kolhapur district.
Organised with the support of Rahul Bhosale and Mitra Parivar, the exhibition drew an overwhelming response from citizens, students, and history enthusiasts. Organisers estimated that around 3,000 to 4,000 visitors attended the display from morning onwards.
Sonalkar, who has spent 25 years collecting historical weapons, said this was his first opportunity to publicly showcase his collection in Pune. He said he travelled across Maharashtra in search of rare artefacts and credited his mentor, Laxman Vashi, for guiding him for nearly 18 years. He also noted that his grandfather, who served in the British Army, had a deep interest in weapons and left behind several items that inspired him to continue the collection.
The exhibition displayed a variety of traditional Maratha-period weapons, including bhale (spears), talwar (swords), khanjir (daggers), concealed weapons, aadkidya, dastaan (arm guards), vitta, chirkat, along with shields and protective armour. The objective was to educate younger generations about the warfare techniques and military traditions of the Maratha Empire.
Bhosale highlighted the importance of meaningful celebrations, saying the day should be used to teach children about history and the bravery of Shivaji Maharaj rather than focusing only on loud festivities. He added that chocolates were distributed to children and that visitors welcomed this educational approach. He also said similar programmes would be organised in the future.
Visitors praised the initiative, saying the exhibition presented Maratha-era weaponry in an engaging manner and helped create awareness about history. Some attendees noted that the curiosity shown by both children and adults encourages organisers to hold more such educational events.
The exhibition served as a tribute to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy while promoting historical awareness among younger generations through cultural engagement.
