Maharashtra Speaker Rahul Narwekar Writes To CM Urging To Rename Alibaug to ‘Maynaknagri’

Mumbai: Maharashtra Assembly Speaker, Rahul Narwekar, has appealed to the state government to consider renaming the picturesque coastal town of Alibaug to ‘Maynaknagri,’ as a tribute to Maynak Bhandari, a pivotal figure in the naval exploits of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Narwekar’s call for the name change comes after a recent meeting with a delegation from the All India Bhandari Federation, who presented the request for this historical alteration.

In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Narwekar underscored the significance of coastal security and maritime warfare during the era of the Maratha warrior king, Shivaji Maharaj.

“Shivaji Maharaj laid the groundwork for a formidable naval force, led by Maynak Bhandari in the Konkan region. The valiant efforts of Bhandari forced the British to retreat from the Khanderi-Underi harbor fort in Alibaug after a fierce confrontation,” Narwekar emphasized in his correspondence.

Furthermore, Narwekar proposed the installation of a statue commemorating Bhandari’s legacy in Alibaug, underscoring the importance of honoring historical figures who contributed to the region’s rich heritage.

“The demands presented by the All India Bhandari Federation, spearheaded by Navinchandra Bandivdekar, are not only reasonable but also symbolize the acknowledgment of our historical roots. I implore the government to give due consideration to these requests,” Narwekar affirmed.

The town of Alibaug, nestled near Mumbai, not only serves as a tourist hotspot but also holds historical significance, reflecting the valor and sacrifices made by individuals like Maynak Bhandari in safeguarding the coastal territories during pivotal periods of history.