Pune: PCMC launches ‘Durgotsav 2025’ To Honour Maharashtra’s Fort heritage following UNESCO recognition
Pune: PCMC launches ‘Durgotsav 2025’ To Honour Maharashtra’s Fort heritage following UNESCO recognition
Pimpri, October 17, 2025: The Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has launched ‘Durgotsav 2025’, a unique competition to celebrate Maharashtra’s glorious legacy of forts and valor. The initiative aims to instill pride in history among citizens—especially students—while promoting eco-friendly creativity through the traditional practice of fort-making during Diwali.
The initiative comes following UNESCO’s recognition of the “Maratha Military Landscapes of India”, which includes 12 historic forts—11 in Maharashtra and one in Tamil Nadu—in its World Heritage Sites list. This international honour marks a moment of pride for Maharashtra, highlighting the enduring influence of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s vision and military genius.
As part of Durgotsav 2025, citizens and students are invited to build eco-friendly models of any of these UNESCO-listed forts at home, in balconies, courtyards, or within housing societies. Participants can upload photographs of their models by scanning the official Durgotsav 2025 QR code. Every valid entry will receive an e-Certificate signed by the Chief Minister of Maharashtra.
“Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy is our pride. Through Durgotsav 2025, we aim to preserve this glorious heritage while fostering patriotism, cultural awareness, and respect for history among the youth,” said Shravan Hardikar, Commissioner, PCMC.
“In today’s fast-paced world, upholding tradition is our collective responsibility. Building replicas of forts is not just an artistic activity—it connects our children to history, culture, and the soul of our motherland,” added Anna Bodade, Deputy Commissioner, PCMC.
