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, Haryana.
The 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 disrespectful.
BREAKING: Outrage over portraits of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj & Maharani Padmini allegedly used in bathroom gender signage at Milan Banquet Hall in Sikri in an insult to Hindu reverence and historical pride.
No official response from authorities yet. pic.twitter.com/aMzTN4nYOr
— Megh Updates 🚨™ (@MeghUpdates) February 22, 2026
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is widely regarded as a symbol of self-rule, 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 sentiment.
Social media backlash intensifies
As 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 images.
Resort issues clarification, removes images
Amid 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 question.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Milan Resort | Epitome of Luxury & Royalty (@milanresort.co.in)
“A few days ago, a concern was raised regarding certain images displayed at our resort,” the statement said. The management clarified that the artwork was meant to represent “ancient dressing styles” and was used purely for aesthetic enhancement of the washroom area.
“It was never intended to portray or resemble Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj or Rani Padmavati,” the statement added, while expressing regret over any hurt or misunderstanding caused.
The resort further stated that it acted swiftly once the issue was brought to its attention. “As soon as the matter came to our notice, the images were removed within an hour,” the statement noted, adding that the establishment remains committed to respecting cultural and historical sentiments.
MNS demands strict action
Meanwhile, the Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) strongly condemned the incident and demanded strict action. In a post on X, the party termed the alleged display “outrageous and highly condemnable,” calling it an insult to the cultural identity of the country and the dignity of revered historical figures.
हरियाणातील फरीदाबाद येथील मिलन बँक्वेट हॉलमध्ये स्वच्छतागृहाजवळ छत्रपती शिवाजी महाराज आणि राणी पद्मिनी यांच्या प्रतिकात्मक चित्रांचा वापर झाल्याची घटना अत्यंत संतापजनक आणि निंदनीय आहे. हा प्रकार देशाच्या सांस्कृतिक अस्मितेचा आणि महापुरुषांच्या सन्मानाचा अपमान करणारा आहे. असा… pic.twitter.com/f0Hs9d1N1v
— MNS Adhikrut – मनसे अधिकृत (@mnsadhikrut) February 24, 2026
The 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 seriousness.
Emphasising that the honour of historical personalities is closely tied to national self-respect, 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.