Oxford press apologises for controversial book on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

The English-language book, 'Shivaji: Hindu King in Islamic India', authored by American historian James Laine, was published by Oxford UniversityOxford UniversityOxford University Press on February 13, 2003. The publisher, in its notice, acknowledged that certain statements about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj were published without adequate verification.

According to the notice, objectionable references appeared on pages 31, 33, 34 and 93 of the book. The publisher admitted that the content hurt the sentiments of Shivaji Maharaj's followers and expressed regret for the distress caused.

"It is hereby acknowledged that some statements regarding Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on page numbers 31, 33, 34, and 93 of the book were unverified. We sincerely regret publishing those statements. We hereby apologise to Shrimant Chhatrapati Udayanraje Bhosale and the public at large for any distress and anguish caused to him," stated the notice.