In a landmark decision that honours India’s architectural ingenuity and historical prowess, UNESCO has inscribed the 'Maratha Military Landscapes' onto its World Heritage List. The announcement came during the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee (WHC) in Paris, marking a historic recognition of the Maratha Empire’s military acumen and cultural legacy.

The newly listed Maratha Military Landscapes comprise 12 majestic forts, developed between the 17th and 19th centuries, under the visionary leadership of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and successive Maratha rulers. These sites are now celebrated globally as prime examples of indigenous military engineering, ecological adaptability, and architectural brilliance in rugged terrains.

The 12 Forts Recognised by UNESCO Include:

1. Salher

2. Shivneri

3. Lohgad

4. Khanderi

5. Raigad

6. Rajgad

7. Pratapgad

8. Suvarnadurg

9. Panhala

10. Vijaydurg

11. Sindhudurg

12. Gingee Fort (Located in Tamil Nadu, the only fort outside Maharashtra)

With these additions, India now boasts 44 World Heritage Sites, enhancing its international stature as a cultural and civilizational powerhouse.

PM Modi’s Message: A Proud Moment for India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reacting to the announcement on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), described the moment as "a proud day for every Indian." He emphasized that the Maratha Empire symbolised good governance, cultural pride, resistance to injustice, and military strength.

He urged the public to visit these historic sites and deepen their understanding of India’s glorious past through the lens of Maratha heritage.

"The Maratha forts reflect a vision of unity, resilience and strategic genius. Their global recognition is a tribute to the valor of our ancestors," the Prime Minister stated.

A Milestone in Cultural Diplomacy and Heritage Conservation

The nomination of the Maratha Military Landscapes was initiated for the 2024–25 UNESCO World Heritage cycle. Over an 18-month review, the proposal underwent rigorous evaluation by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS). The process included technical assessments, site visits, historical validations, and cultural authenticity checks.

The formal announcement was made by India’s Ambassador to UNESCO, Vishal V Sharma, who dedicated the recognition to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the entire Marathi-speaking diaspora worldwide. Sharma described it as “a historic day for India,” highlighting the collaborative efforts of the Culture Ministry, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), and state agencies.

Cultural Ministry Hails the Victory

The Union Ministry of Culture, led by Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, called the inscription a testament to India’s deep-rooted cultural legacy and regional identity. Shekhawat noted:

“This recognition is not just about stone and structure. It is about memory, legacy, resistance, and architectural vision. We thank PM Modi for his unwavering focus on preserving Bharat’s civilisational soul.”

The Ministry also affirmed that the government will continue to work proactively with UNESCO to secure heritage status for more Indian sites, while ensuring sustainable tourism and conservation measures.

Selection Process: From Tentative List to Global Spotlight

Out of 390 documented Maratha forts across the Indian subcontinent, 12 were carefully chosen for their strategic, architectural, and historical significance. These forts exhibit diverse defensive styles, ranging from hilltop citadels to coastal bastions, illustrating how the Marathas adapted their strategies to local terrains and regional challenges.

Eight of these 12 forts are already under ASI protection, while others are maintained by state departments. Their listing as World Heritage Sites ensures international recognition, potential funding, and elevated conservation standards.

India currently ranks 6th globally and 2nd in the Asia-Pacific region in the number of World Heritage Sites and has 62 additional sites on UNESCO’s Tentative List.

Global Context: Other Sites Inscribed Alongside

UNESCO inscribed eight other global sites on the same day, showcasing global cultural and ecological diversity:

• Murujuga Cultural Landscape – Australia

• Xixia Imperial Tombs – China

• Cambodian Memorial Sites – Cambodia

• Khorramabad Valley Prehistoric Sites – Iran

• FRI Selangor Forest Park – Malaysia

• Diy-Gid-Biy Landscape – Cameroon

• Mount Mulanje – Malawi

• Faya Palaeolandscape – UAE

This reflects a continued global emphasis on inclusive heritage narratives, indigenous knowledge systems, and sustainable preservation of cultural landmarks.

The Legacy of Shivaji Maharaj: Now A Global Symbol

The listing of the Maratha Military Landscapes doesn’t just mark a conservation milestone—it serves as an international endorsement of Shivaji Maharaj’s genius in statecraft, architecture, and warfare. His vision of fort-centric defense not only thwarted invasions but also empowered local governance and administrative resilience.

Each fort listed under UNESCO tells a story of resistance, autonomy, and pride. Whether it’s Raigad’s royal court, Sindhudurg’s coastal design, or Shivneri’s birthplace, they collectively represent the cultural zenith of the Maratha Empire.

Next Steps: Conservation, Tourism, and Education

With global attention now focused on these 12 forts, India’s tourism, archaeology, and education sectors are expected to benefit:

• Tourism departments are already preparing detailed heritage circuits for both domestic and international visitors.

• School curricula and museums may soon include enhanced modules on Maratha architecture and legacy.

• Collaborations with global conservation bodies may result in new funding, technology adoption, and better site management.

UNESCO's recognition also boosts India’s case for future heritage site nominations, especially in underrepresented regions and indigenous traditions.

Conclusion: Global Honor for Indigenous Valor

The Maratha Military Landscapes’ inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List stands as a monumental validation of India’s indigenous architectural and military traditions. It strengthens national pride, global visibility, and the preservation of one of the most influential legacies in Indian history.

From mountaintop fortresses to coastal bastions, the Maratha Empire's ingenuity and vision have now been etched in the annals of global heritage—a fitting tribute to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the vibrant history of Bharat.

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