Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressed deep pride and joy as the “Maratha Military Landscapes of India” were officially added to the UNESCO World Heritage List, marking a significant milestone in India’s cultural legacy.
In a post on X, Shah wrote, “It is a moment of immense pride for all countrymen that UNESCO has included 12 forts associated with the life of Maharajadhiraj Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the World Heritage list.”
Reflecting on his recent visit to Raigad Fort, Shah added, “I had a spiritual experience of the symbols associated with the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. These forts have long stood as pillars of Hindu Swaraj and continue to inspire millions towards their mother language and culture.”
The “Maratha Military Landscapes of India” become the 44th Indian property to receive UNESCO World Heritage recognition. The decision was made during the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee held in Paris, France.
The recognized sites span across Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, and include:
- Maharashtra: Salher, Shivneri, Lohgad, Khanderi, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg
- Tamil Nadu: Gingee Fort
Among these, Shivneri, Lohgad, Raigad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg, and Gingee are protected by the Archaeological Survey of India, while the others fall under the jurisdiction of Maharashtra’s Directorate of Archaeology and Museums.
The nomination was accepted under UNESCO criteria (iv) and (vi), highlighting the forts’ architectural, technological, and cultural significance as well as their association with pivotal historical events and traditions.
The inclusion aims to safeguard and celebrate heritage sites of Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) globally. India, currently serving as a member of the World Heritage Committee (2021–2025), continues to expand its global cultural footprint with this latest recognition.