Haryana resort faces backlash after portraits seen as Shivaji Maharaj, Rani Padmini used on washroom doors

A video that went viral on social media platform X has triggered widespread outrage after it allegedly showed portraits resembling Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Rani Padmini displayed on washroom doors at Milan Resort in Sikri HaryanaThe short clip which circulated rapidly online appeared to show framed images of the two revered historical figures placed on restroom doors designated for men and women Within hours of being shared the video drew sharp criticism from users many of whom described the alleged display as insensitive and disrespectfulBREAKING Outrage over portraits of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj amp Maharani Padmini allegedly used in bathroom gender signage at Milan Banquet Hall in Sikri in an insult to Hindu reverence and historical prideNo official response from authorities yet pictwittercomaMzTN4nYOrmdash Megh Updates trade MeghUpdates February 22 2026Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is widely regarded as a symbol of selfrule valour and resistance while Rani Padmini is associated in historical narratives with honour and sacrifice For many Indians these figures hold deep cultural and emotional significance Several users argued that placing such portraits on washroom doors amounted to a serious affront to their legacy and public sentimentSocial media backlash intensifiesAs the video gained traction calls for accountability grew louder across social media A section of users alleged deliberate intent and demanded strict action against the management of the resort Others urged authorities to intervene promptly and ensure the immediate removal of the imagesResort issues clarification removes imagesAmid mounting criticism Milan Resort issued a clarification through its official Instagram account stating that the images were not intended to depict the historical figures in questionView this post on InstagramA post shared by Milan Resort Epitome of Luxury amp Royalty milanresortcoinldquoA few days ago a concern was raised regarding certain images displayed at our resortrdquo the statement said The management clarified that the artwork was meant to represent ldquoancient dressing stylesrdquo and was used purely for aesthetic enhancement of the washroom arealdquoIt was never intended to portray or resemble Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj or Rani Padmavatirdquo the statement added while expressing regret over any hurt or misunderstanding causedThe resort further stated that it acted swiftly once the issue was brought to its attention ldquoAs soon as the matter came to our notice the images were removed within an hourrdquo the statement noted adding that the establishment remains committed to respecting cultural and historical sentimentsMNS demands strict actionMeanwhile the Raj Thackerayled Maharashtra Navnirman Sena MNS strongly condemned the incident and demanded strict action In a post on X the party termed the alleged display ldquooutrageous and highly condemnablerdquo calling it an insult to the cultural identity of the country and the dignity of revered historical figures hellip pictwittercomf0Hs9d1N1vmdash MNS Adhikrut mnsadhikrut February 24 2026The party further alleged that the owner of Milan Banquet Hall is associated with the Bharatiya Janata Party BJP and raised questions over the response of the ruling authorities It asserted that figures like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj are a source of inspiration for the entire nation and that any perceived insult to such icons must be treated with utmost seriousnessEmphasising that the honour of historical personalities is closely tied to national selfrespect the MNS called for concrete steps to prevent such incidents in the future reflecting the broader public sentiment that emerged in response to the controversy