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UNESCO adds 12 Forts of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to World Heritage List

Shivaraya’s bright history to spread across the globe

(UNESCO stands for United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation)

New Delhi – UNESCO has included 12 forts built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the World Heritage List. Out of these 12 forts, 11 forts are in Maharashtra while one fort is in Tamil Nadu. These forts were built between 17th and 19th centuries. In the 47th meeting of UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee held in Paris, the Capital of France, these names were declared and have been called as ‘Maratha Military Landscapes’. It has given world recognition to the history of Marathas and heritage at the international level. Now, there are 44 heritage places in India which have been included in the World Heritage List.

Names of the Forts

Forts in Maharashtra – Shivneri, Salher, Lohgad, Khanderi, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg and Sindhudurg,Tamil Nadu – Gingee Fort

What is ‘Maratha Military Landscapes’ ?

‘Maratha Military Landscapes’ include 12 forts built between 17th and 19th centuries and their surrounding areas. These forts are considered to be the unique symbols of Maratha Empire’s military power, war strategies and architecture. Not only for protection but these forts were very important from the viewpoint of war strategies. These forts are built in different geographical areas full of natural wealth which illustrate the military influence of the Maratha Empire. There is an unparalleled blend of hills and valleys, sea coasts and plains where these forts were built.

Matter of pride for Maharashtra – Dy CM Eknath Shinde

Dy CM Eknath Shinde

Mumbai – Twelve forts of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj have been added to the list of UNESCO’s World Heritage List. This will spread the brilliant history of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at the global level and it is an achievement for the State. These forts which have been the witnesses of ‘Swarajya (Sovereign State)’ are the living symbols of Maharashtra’s glorifying history. Their addition to the World Heritage List is a matter of pride for Maharashtra, stated deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde. He congratulated all the worshippers of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and people of Maharashtra. He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Devendra Fadanvis, minister of cultural affairs Ashish Shelar, the then minister of cultural affairs Sudhir Mungantiwar, additional chief secretary Vikas Kharge and the Archaeological Survey of India for this historical decision.   Dy CM Eknath Shinde further stated that during his regime as the State CM, he had continuously followed up the matter about inclusion of forts. The Government is committed to maintenance, preservation, conservation of all the forts so that they would be an inspiration for the future generations.

Demolish all unauthorised structures on forts irrespective of their religious backgrounds – Raj Thackeray, MNS- President

Raj Thackeray, MNS- President

UNESCO’s declaration as World Heritage is not a permanent status. If its yardsticks are not followed, UNESCO can delist the heritage sites. There have been two such incidents viz. Oman’s Arabian Oryx Sanctuary and Dresden Elby Valley in Germany that were withdrawn from the World Heritage List in 2009; therefore, the Government should not only celebrate but should also realise its responsibilities. First of all, destroy all unauthorised structures built on all the forts without going into their religious backgrounds. It is a matter of great joy that UNESCO has included the 12 forts built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to the World Heritage List. This decision will, however, require strict measures to be undertaken for their conservation and maintenance. The forts will, therefore, be maintained in good condition. Now, the State Government will receive funds for their maintenance and it is expected that the sites will be properly preserved. I hope that the pathetic conditions of the forts will now end and the glory of Maharashtra and Maharaj will be presented to the world.

Editorial Perspective

It is a proud moment for Maharashtra that the historical imprint of forts built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj has been emphasized at the international level. The Government and the fort-lovers should make efforts for inclusion of not only 12 but all forts in the State in the World Heritage List.

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