Godaji Jagtap Museum

About the Museum

The Godaji Jagtap Museum in Nashik was established with the vision to preserve and pass down the legacy of Maratha valor and pride. This museum is a tribute to Shree Chattrapati Shivaji Maharaj's warrior, Sardar Godaji Jagtap. It showcases centuries-old Maratha weapons, armor, coins, and artifacts passed down through generations. The museum stands as a living reminder of the strength, courage, and dedication of the Maratha Empire.

Legacy of Sardar Godaji Jagtap

Sardar Godaji Jagtap was one of the earliest and most fearless warriors of the Maratha Empire, renowned for his fierce combat and loyalty to Swarajya. He played a critical role in the Battle of Purandar and stood by Chattrapati Shivaji Maharaj through many strategic victories. His valor turned the tide during multiple conflicts with the Adilshahi forces.

Descended from a lineage of Rajputs who migrated to Maharashtra, Godaji's family settled in the Saswad-Baramati region. As Deshmukhs of 10 villages including Saswad, Dive, Khad, and Belsar, they were guardians of the land and the people.

Godaji fought alongside other brave Marathas during key operations such as the recapture of Shirwal Fort, the resistance against Fattekhan, and the assassination of Adilshahi commander Musakhan – a feat he accomplished with his bare hands in close combat. His story of bravery inspired generations.

Godaji continued to serve even after Shivaji Maharaj's passing, protecting Wari pilgrims and accompanying Chattrapati Rajaram Maharaj during the Mughal siege of Raigad. He defended the Kavlya-Bavlya Pass against over 300 Mughal soldiers, enabling Rajaram to escape to Jinji.

Today, his Samadhi lies near the Karha river at Sangameshwar Temple in Saswad. A statue commemorates his courage, and his legacy lives on through this museum.

Administrator: Anil Vasantrao Jagtap

Anil Vasantrao Jagtap is a retired State CID fingerprint expert and the visionary behind this museum. He is the son of late Vasantrao Jagtap, a staunch and decorated police sub-inspector, and the grandson of a British-era police inspector known for protecting Indian freedom fighters.

Anil Jagtap has inherited a proud legacy — Maratha weapons passed down for generations through his family. His mission is to ensure that the bravery, knowledge, and heritage of the Maratha Empire are not forgotten.

Inspired by the teachings and spirit of Shree Chattrapati Shivaji Maharaj, he has opened this museum not just to display history — but to ignite it in the hearts of a new generation.

Maratha Weapon Display

Talwar

Curved blade known for swift strikes and perfect balance in battle.

Dhoop

A rare ceremonial weapon with a compact, close-range utility.

Khanda

Double-edged broad sword often used by elite warriors in duels.

Dandpatta

Long gauntlet sword combining reach with forearm protection.

Sosan Patta

Ornate variant of the patta used in special ceremonies and duels.

Wagh Nakh

“Tiger claw” weapon made famous by Shivaji Maharaj himself.

Guruj

A powerful blunt weapon used to break armor and formations.

Dhal

Shield crafted from steel or leather, essential for parrying attacks.

Farsa

Heavy axe favored by infantry and cavalry alike for its lethal arc.

Visit Us as we inaugurate this Oct 2025

Location: Godaji Jagtap Museum, Mangalmurti Bunglow, Trimurti Dutta Police Housing Society, Panchavati, Bidi Kamgar Colony, Nashik, Maharashtra 422003, India
Hours: Saturday – Sunday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry: Free for kids below 13

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Sardar Godaji Jagtap Museum