How Do Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's Forts Reflect Maharashtra's Valour and Cultural Heritage?

Mumbai, July 14 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, expressed immense pride on Monday regarding UNESCO's decision to designate 12 forts as World Heritage Sites, including 11 from Maharashtra and one from Tamil Nadu. In his statement, CM Fadnavis remarked: "The eleven forts in Maharashtra—such as Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Panhala, Shivneri, Lohagad, Salher, Sindhudurg, Swarnadurg, Vijaydurg, Khanderi—alongside the Gingee Fort in Tamil Nadu, are now recognized as World Heritage Sites. These forts, constructed by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, symbolize the valor and rich cultural heritage of Maharashtra, marking a significant achievement for both the state and the nation."

Fadnavis elaborated, stating, "These forts were strategically erected to leverage geographical advantages, terrain for guerrilla warfare, and distinctive gates, showcasing military ingenuity. While earlier monarchs built forts for revenue, Shivaji Maharaj utilized them to establish Swarajya for the people's welfare—a concept acknowledged by UNESCO for its universal significance."

He expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi for championing the inclusion of these forts in the heritage list. The PM had received seven proposals for UNESCO nominations from various regions, ultimately selecting the forts of Chhatrapati Shivaji for this honor. CM Fadnavis acknowledged the collaboration of all involved in this initiative.

“The proposal was meticulously crafted by the Directorate of Archaeological Survey of India under the Department of Cultural Affairs. Out of eight proposals from across India, two were from Maharashtra, with the Maratha Military Territory proposal being chosen by PM Modi. As part of the nomination process, Mr. Kogli from South Korea visited the forts for technical validation. Experts from Maharashtra contributed to discussions during the 46th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee held in New Delhi in July 2024, and the proposal was presented at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris. International meetings were conducted to gather feedback from member nations through voting,” he added.

CM Fadnavis highlighted that India achieved a unanimous victory at the international meeting of the UNESCO Cultural Committee on July 11, 2025.

“Among the voting members, 20 countries recognized these forts of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as World Heritage Sites, leading to unanimous endorsement. We must actively participate in safeguarding the heritage of these remarkable forts,” he emphasized.

He congratulated the Cultural Department, Archaeology and Museum Directorate, and all dignitaries involved, as well as the people of Maharashtra for this historic achievement.

To commemorate the recognition of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's 12 forts in UNESCO's World Heritage List, CM Fadnavis, along with Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, and MahaYuti legislators, paid floral tributes to the legendary king at Vidhan Bhavan, Mumbai.