India's Hindu nationalists take 17th-century king as new anti-Muslim symbol

Hindu nationalist groups in India have been erecting statues of the 17th-century king Shivaji across various cities, portraying him as a defender of Hindus against Muslim adversaries. This campaign reflects a broader pattern of intolerance towards Muslim and Christian minorities that has intensified since the Bharatiya Janata Party came to power. The move underscores the growing polarization and the use of historical figures to fuel sectarian divisions, raising concerns about the future of religious harmony in the country.