On Monday, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath gave his nod to name the under-construction ‘Mughal museum’ in Agra after Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The decision was taken after he reviewed the development works in Agra through video conferencing.
In a statement, the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister emphasised, “How can our heroes be Mughals? The very name of Shivaji will invoke a feeling of nationalism and self-esteem”
Taking to Twitter, he wrote, “The museum, which is being built in Agra, will be known by the name of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. In Uttar Pradesh, there is no place for the ‘slave mentality’ and its symbolism to thrive. Our hero is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Jai Hind, Jai Bharat.”
https://twitter.com/myogiadityanath/status/1305534467465912321?ref_src=twsrc%5EtfwAfter the UP CM’s announcement, former Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis has welcomed the decision.
https://twitter.com/Dev_Fadnavis/status/1305541693077245953?ref_src=twsrc%5EtfwNature of the project likely to change
Reportedly, the foundation of the ‘Mughal Museum’ was laid by former CM Akhilesh Yadav in January 2016. As per the initial proposal, the museum was to be built on 6 acre land near eastern gate of Taj Mahal. It was to be dedicated to the al history, culture, weaponry,and attire. However, citing sources, Indian Express reported that the nature of the project will change, post the name change. In 2016, Akhilesh Yadav had also approved plans for projects such as Agra Heritage Centre and Taj Orientation Centre.