Overview
- The Consulate General of Israel in Mumbai announced the decision publicly, with Consul General Yaniv Revach saying the statue will honor the 17th-century Maratha leader and symbolize close India–Israel relations.
- Revach informed Maharashtra leader Devendra Fadnavis about the proposal and cited historical links with the Indian Jewish community as part of the project’s local resonance in Israel.
- The initiative is described as a long-term people-to-people project rather than a one-off gift, intended to raise awareness of Shivaji’s legacy among Israelis.
- Key practical details remain undecided: the specific Israeli city, the statue’s design, funding sources, formal approvals, and an installation timeline have not been disclosed.
- If pursued, the monument would be a soft‑power move that could deepen cultural ties and prompt cooperation on approvals, fundraising, conservation and community outreach between Indian and Israeli officials.