Amit Shah Unveils Bajirao Peshwa’s Statue at NDA, Calls Cadets to Follow His Legacy
Pune News, July 06, 2025: Union Home Minister Amit Shah unveiled a grand 13.5-foot bronze statue of the legendary Maratha warrior, Bajirao Peshwa I, at the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Khadakwasla on Friday.
The statue, weighing 4,000 kg, was donated by the Shreemath Thorle Bajirao Peshwa Pratishthan and stands as a tribute to the military genius and indomitable spirit of one of India’s greatest commanders.
The ceremony, held at the Trishakti gate of NDA, was attended by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Ajit Pawar and Eknath Shinde, Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol, and Higher and Technical Education Minister Chandrakant Patil, among other dignitaries.
“No Military Commander Matches Bajirao’s Legacy”: Amit Shah
In his address, Amit Shah hailed Bajirao Peshwa’s unparalleled military achievements, stating, *“No military commander in the world can match the record of Bajirao Peshwa, who fought and won 41 battles in just 20 years. He fought every war for his motherland, religion, and ‘swaraj’ (self-rule), creating an immortal history that remains unparalleled even centuries later.”*
Shah emphasized that NDA was the most fitting location for the statue, as it trains the future leaders of India’s armed forces. “If our future soldiers draw inspiration from Bajirao Peshwa and learn from his life, no one would dare to challenge India’s borders for ages to come,” he asserted.
Peshwas Preserved India’s Cultural Identity
Reflecting on the historical significance of the Peshwa dynasty, Shah credited them for safeguarding India’s cultural and national identity. “Had the battle for Independence started by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj not been carried forward by the Peshwas for over 100 years, India’s original cultural and national identity would not have survived till today,” he remarked.
Shah described Bajirao Peshwa as a symbol of “valour, diplomacy, and vision,” adding that his legacy would continue to inspire generations of military leaders. “In his 40 years of life, he wrote a chapter of history that no one has been able to replicate,” he said.
Interactive Session with NDA Cadets
During his visit, Shah also engaged in an interactive session with NDA cadets, stressing the importance of national security, ethical leadership, and unwavering dedication to the nation. He urged them to imbibe the values of discipline, strategic foresight, and selfless service, drawing inspiration from Bajirao Peshwa’s life.
The statue is expected to serve as a lasting inspiration for cadets, reinforcing the ideals of courage, patriotism, and leadership.
