Jyotiraditya Scindia Commemorates Maratha Valor at Panipat, Acknowledges Sacrifices in Historical Battles

Jyotiraditya Scindia, the Union Minister for Civil Aviation and Steel, visited Panipat, Haryana, expressing his emotional connection to the place. Referring to his ancestors, he highlighted how over 60,000 Maratha warriors, including his forefathers, stood firm against foreign invaders during the historic battles of Panipat, sacrificing their lives with unwavering commitment.

Scindia emphasized the dedication of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who pledged to eradicate foreign invaders until each one was expelled from the country. He commended the Scindia lineage for contributing to the re-establishment of religious sites, drawing parallels with the reconstruction of the Somnath Temple in Gujarat and the restoration of Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi by Rani Ahilyabai Holkar.

The minister recounted the heroic tales of the Marathas during the Panipat battles, where within three hours, they successfully repelled around 8,000 Afghan invaders. Of the 16 Scindia descendants who participated in the war, 15 sacrificed their lives on the battlefield, showcasing immense valour and resilience.

Scindia also delved into the historical significance of the Black Mango Tree (Kala Aam), located just 4 kilometres from Panipat. The tree stands as a memorial to the Third Battle of Panipat, fought between Ahmad Shah Abdali and the Marathas in 1761. The area witnessed a colossal loss of approximately 70,000 soldiers from both sides, and the blood spilled during the battle led to the transformation of the mango tree, once vibrant, into a darkened symbol.

The minister concluded by praising the Marathas for their selfless service to the nation, emphasizing their legacy of defending the country against foreign aggressors. The tales of bravery, from Shivaji Maharaj to Sambhaji Maharaj and the subsequent Peshwas, exemplify the Maratha commitment to serving the nation, leaving an indelible mark in Indian history.