Maharashtra’s Historic Forts Go Digital With ‘Swarajya 360’ Virtual Tour Initiative
Maharashtra’s Historic Forts Go Digital With ‘Swarajya 360’ Virtual Tour Initiative
Pune, June 30, 2026: History enthusiasts and admirers of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj can now explore some of Maharashtra’s iconic forts from anywhere in the world through a new virtual tourism initiative. Launched by Gyan Prabodhini, the project, titled ‘Swarajya 360’, offers immersive 360-degree virtual tours of historic forts along with detailed information about their architectural and historical significance.
The initiative was inaugurated on the occasion of Shivrajyabhishek Day, with Rajgad becoming the first fort to be showcased through the virtual platform. Accessible via smartphones, tablets, laptops and desktop computers, the experience allows users to virtually navigate fortifications, monuments and surrounding landscapes while learning about important historical sites through curated multimedia content.
The launch event was attended by former MP and President of the Bharat Itihas Sanshodhak Mandal, Pradeep Rawat, Gyan Prabodhini Secretary Prof. Mahendra Sethia, Giripremi representative Umesh Zirpe, and project conceptualiser Aniruddha Karmarkar. Demonstrating the platform, organisers highlighted how technology can help preserve and promote Maharashtra’s rich historical heritage.
Speaking on the occasion, Rawat observed that while religious tourism has flourished in India, heritage tourism centred on sites of national inspiration has not received similar attention. He stressed that the forts associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj are symbols of courage and nation-building, and should attract greater public engagement to strengthen historical awareness.
Under the project, ‘Rajgad Virtual Tour’ has been developed as the flagship experience, combining interactive digital exploration with informative videos. Organisers said additional virtual tours of other prominent forts are also being developed. The primary objective of the initiative is to use immersive technology to make the history of Maharashtra’s forts accessible to people of all ages, including those who are unable to visit these heritage sites in person.
