A remark on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj sparked widespread controversy recently. Moreover, Bageshwar Baba made these comments during a public interaction. Therefore, several people raised objections against his statement quickly.
What The Statement Claimed
Meanwhile, Dhirendra Krishna Shastri shared a narrative about Shivaji Maharaj’s struggles. Furthermore, he said continuous battles left Shivaji Maharaj exhausted over time. Additionally, he claimed Shivaji placed his crown before Samarth Ramdas Swami. Moreover, he stated Shivaji requested him to manage state affairs afterward.
Riteish Deshmukh Responds Strongly
However, actor Riteish Deshmukh reacted strongly against this statement publicly. Moreover, he described such claims as incorrect and unacceptable. Additionally, he said no attempt can weaken Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy.
Emotional Social Media Message
Furthermore, Riteish shared a detailed post in Marathi expressing anger. He said devotees cannot tolerate disrespect toward their revered figure. Moreover, he added that such baseless attempts will fade with time. Additionally, he praised Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy as eternal and unshakable.
कोणीतरी येतो आणि आपल्या आराध्य दैवताबद्दल काहीतरी विकृत बरळतो, एक शिवप्रेमी-शिवभक्त म्हणून हे अमान्य आणि संतापजनक आहे.
असले चौकटीत अडकवण्याचे फोल प्रयत्न काळाच्या उदरात गडप होतील. पण सह्याद्रीच्या पर्वतरांगा जशा लाखो वर्ष आधी होत्या तसंच ‘ते’ एकच नाव करोडो वर्ष भविष्यातही राहील.…— Riteish Deshmukh (@Riteishd) April 26, 2026
Apology From Bageshwar Baba
Meanwhile, rising outrage pushed Dhirendra Krishna Shastri to issue clarification. Moreover, he said people misunderstood his statement incorrectly. Additionally, he clarified that he never intended to insult Shivaji Maharaj. Furthermore, he said he aimed to express respect toward saints through his words.
Regret And Ongoing Debate
Moreover, he expressed regret if his words hurt sentiments. Additionally, he apologised and said he deeply respects Shivaji Maharaj. Meanwhile, debate continues across social media with mixed reactions. Furthermore, this controversy emerged while Riteish promotes his film ‘Raja Shivaji’. Additionally, the film will release on May 1.
