Consensus Reached to Install Statue Near Munnu Lal Dharamshala in Chowk
Lucknow — The long-pending issue of installing a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Chowk crossing has moved a step forward, bringing relief to the Marathi community, which has been raising the demand for years.
On Wednesday, a delegation of the Uttar Pradesh Marathi Samaj, including Umesh Patil, spokesperson Gajanan Patil, and other office-bearers, met MLA Dr. Neeraj Bora to discuss the installation of the statue before Shiv Jayanti on February 19.
During the meeting, the MLA suggested that instead of placing the statue directly at the busy Chowk intersection—where installation is restricted due to a 2013 Supreme Court order—a more suitable and accessible site would be in front of Munnu Lal Dharamshala, located close to the crossing. Dr. Bora noted that the proposed location would allow the creation of a beautiful commemorative space, provide adequate area for cultural events, and avoid any disruption to traffic.
After detailed discussions, the Marathi Samaj accepted the MLA’s proposal, acknowledging it as a practical and dignified solution. Community representatives expressed gratitude, calling the decision historic and significant for preserving the legacy of the great warrior who championed the cause of Hindu self-rule.
Local residents of the Chowk area were also present during the interaction.
