Oxford Press Apologizes for 23-Year-Old Shivaji Maharaj Book Controversy

• Oxford University Press (OUP) publicly apologized for its 2003 book 'Shivaji: Hindu King in Islamic India' by James Laine.
• The apology was issued to Udayanraje Bhosale, Shivaji Maharaj's 13th descendant, following Bombay High Court directions.
• OUP admitted the book contained unverified statements about Shivaji Maharaj's lineage and personal life, causing offense.
• The controversy led to violent protests, an attack on BORI in Pune, a criminal defamation case, and a ban by the Maharashtra government.
• Author James Laine also apologized, and OUP stated the book was withdrawn almost two decades ago.

Why It Matters: OUP apologizes for a controversial 2003 book on Shivaji Maharaj, highlighting historical sensitivity.