Pune: UNESCO World Heritage Status For 12 Historic Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Forts
Pune: UNESCO World Heritage Status For 12 Historic Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Forts
Mumbai, July 12, 2025: In a historic moment of pride for Maharashtra, 12 forts – 11 from Maharashtra and 1 from Tamil Nadu – built during the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, have been inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This global recognition highlights the strategic, architectural, and cultural legacy of the Maratha forts.
The Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, under the Department of Cultural Affairs, prepared the proposal for the nomination. The list includes Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Panhala, Shivneri, Lohgad, Salher, Sindhudurg, Suvarnadurg, Vijaydurg, Khanderi (Maharashtra) and Gingee (Tamil Nadu).
These forts met the UNESCO criteria of “Outstanding Universal Value” due to their unique hill fort architecture, strategic use of the Sahyadri terrain, and guerrilla warfare techniques developed during the Maratha rule.
Government’s Initiative and Teamwork
This achievement was made possible through coordinated efforts by multiple government agencies. The Archaeological Survey of India and the Ministry of Culture shortlisted the Maratha Military Architecture nomination for submission to UNESCO in 2024-25. Architect Dr. Shikha Jain and Archaeology Director Dr. Tejas Garge played pivotal roles in this process.
During UNESCO’s 46th session, state officials, fort conservation committee members, and experts participated actively. In October 2024, ICOMOS expert Hwa-Jong Lee visited these forts, with support from district collectors and forest departments.
Political Leadership’s Role
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CMs Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, and Cultural Affairs Minister Adv. Ashish Shelar personally followed up with UNESCO officials. The Cultural Affairs Department’s Additional Chief Secretary Vikas Kharge and India’s UNESCO permanent representative Vishal Sharma also contributed significantly.
Boost to Heritage, Tourism, and Economy
This recognition not only glorifies Maharashtra’s rich history but is also expected to boost tourism, research, and local economies. Maharashtra’s valor, architectural traditions, and vision of Swarajya have now been highlighted on the global stage.
“Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s forts symbolize Maharashtra’s heritage of valor. The UNESCO tag gives this historical wealth international recognition,” said Vikas Kharge, Additional Chief Secretary of Cultural Affairs.
