Amit Shah Pune : Amit Shah's speech at the inauguration of Bajirao Peshwa Memorial in Pune

Union Home Minister Amit Shah paid rich tribute to the Maratha legacy by inaugurating a memorial dedicated to Shrimant Bajirao Peshwa at the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA) in Pune. Speaking at the event, Shah hailed the bravery and leadership of Bajirao Peshwa and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, calling them timeless inspirations for India’s youth. Addressing the gathering, Shah said, “Whenever I feel disheartened in life, I find strength in the thoughts of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Shrimant Bajirao Peshwa. What they achieved during those turbulent times was nothing short of extraordinary.”

Recalling the historical context, Shah explained how South India suffered under repeated Mughal invasions while North India remained under direct Mughal rule. At just 12 years of age, Shivaji Maharaj planted the idea of Hindavi Swarajya, which was later carried forward by courageous leaders like Sambhaji Maharaj, Tarabai, Dhanaji Jadhav, and Santaji Ghorpade. Following Shahu Maharaj’s release, the Maratha Empire was briefly divided, but visionaries like Balaji Vishwanath and his son Bajirao Peshwa gave it new direction and strength.

“Shrimant Bajirao Peshwa was an extraordinary general,” Shah said, noting that Bajirao never lost a single battle out of the 41 he fought. His triumph at the Battle of Palkhed is regarded as a tactical masterpiece. Through unmatched strategy, speed, and foresight, Bajirao expanded the Maratha Empire from Thanjavur in the south to Cuttack in the east.

Beyond the battlefield, Bajirao was equally skilled in administration and military reforms. One of his notable innovations was the provision of three horses per soldier—ensuring unmatched mobility for his cavalry, a testament to his forward-thinking military strategy. “He never fought for personal gain. Bajirao was devoted entirely to the cause of Swarajya,” Shah emphasized. “In his short life of 40 years, he created a legacy that will remain unchallenged for centuries. Some even call him Shivshreshtha Senapati—the finest among Shivaji’s military heirs.”

Referring to Operation Sindoor, Shah encouraged the youth to draw inspiration from India’s glorious past and walk the path of “vikas ani virasat”—development and heritage. He further expressed the need to translate Bajirao’s life story into all Indian languages so that the younger generation can learn from one of India’s greatest heroes. The memorial at NDA is expected to serve as a symbol of India’s rich martial tradition and a reminder of the unmatched courage and vision of the Peshwas.