Pune: Veteran actor Rahul Solapurkar has resigned from his position as a trustee at Bhandarkar Institute, Pune, following a controversy over his remarks about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s historic escape from Agra.

During a YouTube podcast, Solapurkar claimed that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj did not escape from Agra in a sweet box, as popularly believed. Instead, he asserted that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj used monetary incentives (bribes) to secure his release.

His statement suggested that:

• Aurangzeb’s minister, his wife, and several nobles were paid off.

• Official records indicate ransom payments and travel permits.

• Historical details were altered for a more engaging narrative.

These remarks led to a political backlash. Following the outrage, Solapurkar apologized, stating that his words were taken out of context. In a video statement, Solapurkar clarified that his intention was not to disrespect Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Solapurkar expressed regret for using the word "bribe" and emphasized:

"Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was a great strategist who mastered all aspects of governance. I have always respected and admired him. Unfortunately, a couple of sentences from my podcast were misinterpreted, leading to unnecessary controversy."

Despite his apology, Solapurkar has stepped down from his role at Bhandarkar Institute, marking the latest development in the controversy.