2 July, 2025-In a significant cultural and historical initiative, Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to unveil a grand statue of Peshwa Bajirao at the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA) on 4th July 2025. The statue, commemorating the legendary Maratha general known for his strategic brilliance and unmatched cavalry warfare, will stand as a symbol of India’s rich military heritage.
This ceremonial event is expected to draw attendance from senior defence officials, political dignitaries, and historians, highlighting the importance of remembering India’s indigenous military heroes. The unveiling of Bajirao’s statue is part of a broader government effort to honour historical figures who contributed to India’s sovereignty and cultural legacy.
Peshwa Bajirao I, who served as the Prime Minister to Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj in the early 18th century, is widely acknowledged as one of India’s most formidable military leaders. He never lost a battle in his lifetime and expanded the Maratha Empire across vast territories through swift and decisive campaigns. The decision to erect his statue at NDA—India’s premier military training institution—is intended to inspire future generations of defence personnel.
The 18-foot bronze statue, crafted by renowned sculptor Ram Sutar’s team, portrays Bajirao in full battle regalia astride a horse, symbolizing courage, strategy, and leadership. According to NDA sources, the statue has been strategically placed at the heart of the campus, making it a central point of reflection for cadets.
The Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Culture collaborated on this initiative to ensure historical accuracy and cultural relevance. The statue was developed over two years, involving consultations with military historians and Maratha scholars to capture Bajirao’s persona authentically.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who has consistently advocated for honouring Indian icons often overlooked in mainstream narratives, is expected to highlight Bajirao’s legacy in his keynote address. In his previous speeches, Shah has emphasized the role of national icons in strengthening India’s cultural confidence and national pride.
In addition to the statue unveiling, the event will feature a traditional Maharashtrian cultural performance and an exhibition showcasing Bajirao’s military campaigns, strategic maps, and rare archival material. The aim is to provide a historical context to Bajirao’s contributions and his relevance to modern India’s military ethos.
The unveiling ceremony is also expected to be broadcast live on national television and digital platforms, allowing citizens across the country to witness the tribute. The move has generated widespread interest and praise from various quarters, especially from the state of Maharashtra, where Bajirao remains a revered figure.
This landmark installation at NDA is more than just a statue—it is a tribute to indigenous military excellence and a reminder of India’s rich historical lineage. By commemorating Peshwa Bajirao in such a grand and dignified manner, the government is reinforcing the significance of national pride and historical memory in shaping the future of India’s armed forces.
