Mumbai
In a significant recognition of India’s rich cultural heritage, twelve forts associated with Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The announcement was confirmed by the Maharashtra State Government on Saturday, marking a proud moment for the state and the country.
Eleven of the forts are located in Maharashtra—Raigad, Pratapgad, Shivneri, Lohgad, Panhala, Salher, Sindhudurg, Suvarnadurg, Vijaydurg, Khanderi, and Rajgad—while one, Gingee Fort, is situated in Tamil Nadu. These forts are collectively referred to as part of India’s “Maratha Military Landscapes.”
The proposal for the UNESCO inscription was prepared and submitted by the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums under the Maharashtra Department of Cultural Affairs. The nomination emphasized the architectural ingenuity, military strategy, and cultural importance of these forts, which were built in the 17th century during Shivaji’s reign.
Officials said the selection reflects global recognition of the Maratha empire’s distinctive military planning and fort architecture, which were uniquely adapted to the Sahyadri hill range and coastal geography. The forts also played a vital role in safeguarding regional autonomy and resisting Mughal and colonial expansion.
This international acknowledgment is expected to boost tourism and encourage conservation efforts. Leaders across the political spectrum, including Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, hailed the announcement and called it a moment of pride for Maharashtra. The recognition marks a milestone in the preservation of India’s historical assets, reinforcing the legacy of Shivaji Maharaj on the global cultural map.
