PM Modi Pays Tribute to 'Good Maharaja' and Others in Warsaw

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised the importance of humanity and compassion for a just and peaceful world during his visit to Poland. He paid homage at three memorials, including the Jam Saheb of Nawanagar monument, which honours the Maharaja who sheltered over 1,000 Polish children escaping the Soviet Union.

Modi's visit to Poland marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 45 years. He also visited memorials for the Valivade-Kolhapur camp and the Battle of Monte Cassino in Warsaw. "Humanity and compassion are vital foundations of a just and peaceful world," Modi stated.

Tribute to Jam Saheb of Nawanagar

The Jam Saheb of Nawanagar Memorial in Warsaw commemorates Jam Saheb Digvijaysinhji Ranjitsinhji Jadeja's humanitarian efforts during World War II. Modi posted on X, "Jam Saheb is fondly remembered in Poland as Dobry Maharaja," along with photos from the event.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also posted on X: "PM @narendramodi paid tribute at The Dobry Maharaja Memorial in Warsaw, honouring the Jamsaheb of Nawanagar Digvijaysinhji Ranjitsinhji Jadeja’s remarkable act of kindness during World War-II."

Valivade-Kolhapur Camp Memorial

Modi paid respects at the Valivade-Kolhapur camp memorial, inaugurated in November 2017 near the Monte Casino War Memorial. "Paid homage at the Kolhapur Memorial in Warsaw," he posted on X, highlighting the Royal Family of Kolhapur's role in sheltering Polish women and children during World War II.

The MEA noted that this monument honours Kolhapur's generosity, which continues to illuminate the deep friendship between India and Poland. Over 5,000 Poles lived in Valivade village near Kolhapur before returning to their homeland.

Battle of Monte Cassino Monument

Prime Minister Modi also visited the Monument to the Battle of Monte Cassino in Warsaw. He honoured soldiers who fought in World War II, noting that Indian and Polish troops fought together in this historic battle. "Our shared history and enduring ties continue to inspire," stated the MEA on X.

The story of 'Dobry Maharaja' remains a significant chapter in India-Poland relations. The memorial monument, a small brick pillar with inscriptions, was unveiled in October 2014 at the Square of the Good Maharaja in Warsaw's Ochota district.

According to the Indian Embassy website, eight Polish schools are named after Jam Saheb, known as 'Good Maharaja' in Poland. In 1942, he provided refuge to about 1,000 Polish children from war-torn Poland and Soviet camps.

The surviving Polish children have formed an Association of Poles, meeting annually in major Polish cities. This act of compassion by Jam Saheb continues to inspire generations.

Modi's visit underscores the lasting impact of these humanitarian acts on India-Poland ties. The Royal Family of Kolhapur's efforts were inspired by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's ideals, ensuring dignity for displaced Polish women and children.

Prime Minister Modi's tributes highlight India's historical connections with Poland during World War II. These memorials serve as reminders of shared history and enduring friendships between nations.