New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has hailed the inclusion of the Maratha Military Landscapes of India in the UNESCO World Heritage List as a moment of great pride for the nation. The recognition marks India’s 44th UNESCO heritage site, highlighting 12 historic forts—11 in Maharashtra and one in Tamil Nadu—built by the Maratha Empire between the 17th and 19th centuries.
Describing the forts as powerful emblems of military strength, cultural pride, social welfare, and visionary governance, PM Modi encouraged citizens to visit and draw inspiration from these architectural marvels. He also fondly recalled his 2014 visit to Raigad Fort, where he paid tribute to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the legendary Maratha ruler.
The decision was unanimously endorsed at the 47th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Paris. The honored forts include Salher, Shivneri, Lohgad, Khanderi, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg, and Gingee.
This global recognition not only shines a spotlight on the strategic and architectural genius of the Maratha era but also aligns with the government’s efforts to preserve India’s rich legacy and promote it on the world stage. The listing is expected to give a significant boost to heritage tourism and inspire greater appreciation of India’s historical contributions.
