History brought to life through sculptures in Akluj

Solapur, Jun 16 (UNI) A fort that could not find a place in the historical records of the state has been restored through a unique project, initiated by Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) in Akluj city of the district.

The 'Shivsrushti' project has been developed over a restored fort of six acres and houses a collection of 172 sculptures of prominent personalities of the era of Maratha king Shivaji.

It also has a collection of 21 replica panels, explaining important events in Shivaji's life through sculptures. The replica panels have been made of fibre glass.

Speaking to mediapersons here today, State Tourism Minister Vijay Singh Mohite-Patil, who is in the district to inaugurate the project, said ''It was my father's wish to restore the fort that could not find a place in the historical records. People later decided that the place should be developed as 'Shivsrushti' and MTDC undertook the project.'' Mr Dinkar Thopte, who has supervised the works of the project, said ''An expenditure of Rs 5 crore has been incurred in the project and it has been completed in about two and half years.'' ''Each and every sculpture and scene depicted in the project has been made under the able guidance of renowned historian Babasaheb Purandare,'' Mr Thopte said.

The project is expected to be the biggest tourist attraction of Maharashtra, Mr Patil said.

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