New Delhi, July 12 —
India’s rich cultural tapestry gained global recognition once again as ‘Maratha Military Landscapes of India’ was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, marking the country’s 44th World Heritage Site.
The announcement was made during the 47th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Paris, recognising a network of 12 strategically built Maratha forts developed between the 17th and 19th centuries. These include 11 forts in Maharashtra and one in Tamil Nadu (Gingee Fort).
The inscription honours the Maratha Empire’s indigenous military engineering, architectural brilliance, and regional adaptability. The listed forts are: Salher, Shivneri, Lohgad, Khanderi, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijay Durg, Sindhudurg, and Gingee Fort.
Celebration Across the Nation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the UNESCO recognition as a tribute to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s enduring legacy. In a social media post, he said,
> “Every Indian is elated with this recognition. These forts embody military strength, cultural pride, and the Maratha spirit of resilience.”
He encouraged citizens to visit the forts to learn about the Maratha Empire’s governance, resistance to injustice, and contributions to India’s history.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis called it a “glorious moment” and praised the joint efforts of the Central government, ASI, and state officials.
> “Heartfelt gratitude to PM Modi for his strong support. This is a proud moment for every Shiv Bhakt,” Fadnavis said.
Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat described it as a
> “testament to India’s civilisational legacy and strategic mastery.”
A Rigorous Global Evaluation
The nomination, part of UNESCO’s 2024–25 cycle, underwent a rigorous 18-month review that included field evaluations by ICOMOS (International Council on Monuments and Sites). The inclusion underscores the forts’ architectural and ecological harmonisation with their surroundings, showcasing how the Marathas adapted to varied topographies.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also expressed pride, noting the forts’ complex defence systems and the strategic vision of the Maratha rulers.
India’s Growing Global Cultural Footprint
With this recognition, India now ranks sixth globally and second in the Asia-Pacific in terms of total World Heritage properties. Additionally, 62 Indian sites are on UNESCO’s Tentative List, a prerequisite for future inscriptions.
In 2024, the Ahom dynasty’s Moidams in Assam were the previous Indian entry to the World Heritage list during the 46th session hosted in New Delhi.
India can nominate only one site per year, making this selection both prestigious and politically significant.
Quick Facts: Maratha Military Landscapes
12 forts inscribed, 11 in Maharashtra, 1 in Tamil Nadu
Built between 17th–19th century under Shivaji Maharaj and successors
Recognised for military ingenuity, regional integration, and architectural diversity
India’s 44th World Heritage Site
