OUP India Issues Apology for Shivaji Maharaj Book Misstatements

Oxford University Press (OUP) India has issued a formal apology for publishing unverified claims regarding Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in a 2003 book, reigniting discussions from a major controversy that affected both academic and societal spheres in Maharashtra.

In a public notice, OUP India recognized that certain assertions in the book “Shivaji: Hindu King in Islamic India”, written by American historian James Laine, were inadequately verified. The publisher specified that the contentious content can be found on pages 31, 33, 34, and 93.

This apology was directed towards Chhatrapati Udayanraje Bhosale, a direct descendant of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and also to the broader public. OUP India conveyed their remorse for publishing these statements and expressed sorrow for the “distress and anguish” they caused.

The book initially provoked significant backlash soon after its release. In January 2004, tensions escalated when over 150 members of the Sambhaji Brigade vandalized the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute (BORI) in Pune, accusing it of aiding the author while condemning what they perceived as offensive references to Shivaji Maharaj, who is a revered historical figure in India.

This incident ignited fervent discussions on topics such as academic freedom, historical accuracy, and the respect owed to cultural icons. Although the book was later removed from circulation in India, the controversy remains a significant example of the conflicts that can occur between scholars and activist communities.

As outlined in the notice, this apology is issued on behalf of OUP India’s former Managing Director, Sayeed Manzar Khan, effectively taking responsibility for the editorial oversights regarding the contentious statements.

This development has reignited a dialogue about the sensitivities surrounding historical narratives and their influence on public emotions, particularly concerning figures of significant reverence.