Shivaji–Tipu comparison sparks political storm in Maharashtra

Mumbai: A fresh political controversy has erupted in Maharashtra after state Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal compared 17th-century Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj with 18th-century Mysore ruler Tipu Sultan. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis lashed out at Sapkal, terming the statement “shameful” and “condemnable.”

The row comes amid protests over the installation of Tipu Sultan’s portrait at the office of Malegaon Municipal Corporation Deputy Mayor Shaan-e-Hind Nihal Ahmed. A Shiv Sena corporator and several Hindu organisations have strongly objected to the move, demanding the removal of the portrait and accusing the Congress of indulging in appeasement politics.

Speaking to reporters in Buldhana, Sapkal invoked the bravery and the concept of ‘Swarajya’ championed by Shivaji Maharaj. Drawing a parallel, he cited Tipu Sultan’s call to fight against the British, arguing that both leaders symbolised resistance against colonial forces.

“In that sense, Tipu Sultan was a warrior of India and a son of the soil. He never accepted toxic ideologies. As a symbol of valour, Tipu Sultan should be regarded on par with Shivaji Maharaj,” Sapkal said, defending his remarks.

The statement triggered sharp reactions from the ruling BJP and its allies. Fadnavis said equating Shivaji Maharaj — revered across Maharashtra as a cultural and historical icon — with Tipu Sultan was unacceptable. “This comparison is condemnable. Sapkal should be ashamed of making such a statement,” the Chief Minister said.

Political observers note that Shivaji Maharaj occupies a central place in Maharashtra’s socio-political landscape, and any perceived slight or controversial comparison often results in intense backlash. Tipu Sultan, meanwhile, remains a polarising historical figure, particularly in parts of Karnataka and Maharashtra, where debates over his legacy frequently resurface.

The controversy has once again underlined the sensitivities surrounding historical icons in contemporary politics. While the Congress has defended Sapkal’s remarks as a historical interpretation of anti-British resistance, the BJP has framed the issue as an insult to Maharashtra’s pride.

As the row escalates, it is likely to intensify political sparring between the ruling alliance and the opposition in the run-up to upcoming civic and local body elections in the state.