Renowned Marathi researcher recently spoke against misrepresentation of history and the Brahmin community
Team Clarion
KOLHAPUR — Renowned Marathi historian and researcher Inderjit Sawant has been threatened with death, allegedly over his remarks concerning the Brahmin community. The threat, made by a man named Prashant Kortkar, included derogatory comments about Chhatrapati Shivaji and a warning to Sawant to stop “defaming Brahmins.”
In a Facebook post, Sawant shared an audio clip of the threatening call, in which Kortkar allegedly said, “Gather as many Marathas as you want, if you speak against Brahmins in the future, we will enter your house and kill you.” Sawant was also told to cease his criticism, with the caller referencing Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, stating, “Remember, the chief minister is a Brahmin. You are currently working in the government of a Brahmin.” The threat was further compounded with abusive language and insults towards Sawant’s family.
Sawant, a vocal critic of historical misrepresentation in films and dramas, has often been targeted by right-wing groups. He recently voiced his opinion on the film Chhawa, alleging that Brahmins have defamed Chhatrapati Sambhaji. This is not the first time Sawant has faced threats; in the past, he has called out claims such as the alleged return of a lion’s claw used by Shivaji from a museum in London, which he later disproved.
Despite the threats, Sawant remains undeterred. “I am not afraid of such threats,” he posted, adding that the caller’s remarks about Shivaji’s ministers being Brahmins were disrespectful. “What do you know about history? Chhatrapati Shivaji’s Asht Pradhans (8 ministers) were Brahmins,” the caller allegedly said during the conversation, further mocking the Maratha warrior.
In response to the threat, Chief Minister Fadnavis instructed the Kolhapur District Superintendent of Police to ensure Sawant’s safety and to take immediate legal action against the individual responsible. Fadnavis expressed concern, stating, “Such behaviour is unacceptable, and strict action will be taken against those who threaten others.”
However, Prashant Kortkar, a resident of Nagpur, has denied any involvement in the threats. He claimed that his name was being misused and that the exploitation of modern technology caused the incident. “I don’t even know Inderjit Sawant,” Kortkar stated, adding, “He should have called me first and confirmed it before posting on Facebook.”
Despite Kortkar’s denial, the caller in the audio clearly identifies himself as Prashant Kortkar and asks listeners to search for his credentials online.
