12 Forts Linked to Shivaji Maharaj's Legacy Nominated for World Heritage Status

12 forts built during Chhatrapati Shivaji’s reign, to be included in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list.

In a significant step towards preserving Maratha heritage, the central and Maharashtra state governments have proposed 12 forts associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list. This move aims to recognize the architectural brilliance and military strategy of the Maratha Empire while ensuring the conservation of these historical structures for future generations.

Developed between the 17th and 19th centuries, these forts exemplify the Maratha Empire’s defense strategies, reflecting a seamless integration with the landscape, terrain, and physiographic characteristics of the Sahyadri mountain ranges, the Konkan Coast, the Deccan Plateau, and the Western Ghats.

Maharashtra, home to over 390 forts, has seen only 12 selected under the "Maratha Military Landscapes of India," with eight of them protected by the Archaeological Survey of India. The nominated forts include Salher, Shivneri, Lohagad, Khanderi, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg, and Gingee. Each of these sites played a crucial role in Maratha military history, serving as strategic strongholds, administrative centers, and naval defense hubs.

The nomination highlights the importance of these sites in understanding Maratha warfare, governance, and expansion. If granted UNESCO recognition, these forts will gain global significance, attracting greater efforts for their preservation and boosting heritage tourism in Maharashtra.

As the proposal advances, history enthusiasts and scholars eagerly await UNESCO’s decision, which could mark a new milestone in the conservation of India’s rich cultural legacy.