Mumbai – Maratha Military Landscapes were inscribed on the World Heritage List on Saturday, prompting an elated response from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who urged everyone to visit the forts and learn about the rich history of the Maratha Empire.
The Landscapes, consisting of 12 major fortifications, 11 in Maharashtra and 1 in Tamil Nadu, were included on the World Heritage List by the World Heritage Committee 2025 during its 47th session from July 6 to 16, in UNESCO Headquarters in Paris.
According to UNESCO, these forts formed a complex defence system supporting Maratha military dominance between the late 17th and early 19th centuries.
“This network played a key role in the Marathas’ rise as a major political and military force,” UNESCO recognised.
Every Indian is elated with this recognition.
These ‘Maratha Military Landscapes’ include 12 majestic forts, 11 of which are in Maharashtra and 1 is in Tamil Nadu.
When we speak of the glorious Maratha Empire, we associate it with good governance, military strength, cultural… https://t.co/J7LEiOAZqy
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 12, 2025
It is indeed a proud moment for all Bharatiyas! Hindu Janajagruti Samiti has a long running campaign to safeguard forts that showcase the military prowess of the Marathas and sing the glory of Hindavi Swarajya. Over the years the HJS and several local organisations of devout followers of Chh. Shivaji Maharaj have raised alarm over the rapid encroachment of some forts and deep neglect and state of disrepair.
For example –
This is based on the Samiti’s ongoing campaigns. We hope that now the ASI and the government will take immediate and concrete steps to clear the forts and maintain them. This will not only increase tourism to the forts, it will also help instill pride for Swadharma in future generations.
A testament to indigenous military ingenuity
The Maratha Military Landscapes represent a unique fusion of military innovation, ecological harmony, and architectural brilliance. Developed between the 17th and 19th centuries, the forts demonstrate strategic design adapted to the rugged terrains of the Sahyadri ranges, initiated by the legendary Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
The 12 forts inscribed are-
- Salher
- Shivneri
- Lohgad
- Khanderi
- Raigad
- Rajgad
- Pratapgad
- Suvarnadurg
- Panhala
- Vijaydurg
- Sindhudurg
- Gingee Fort in Tamil Nadu
India now has 44 World Heritage properties, reinforcing its global standing as a cultural powerhouse.
A long and rigorous nomination process
The inscription was finalised during the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee (WHC) in Paris. The nomination, submitted for the 2024–25 cycle, underwent an intensive 18-month review that included technical consultations and an on-site evaluation by ICOMOS (International Council on Monuments and Sites).
India’s Ambassador to UNESCO, Vishal V Sharma, delivered the formal statement during the announcement, calling it a “historic day for India, and especially for Marathi people worldwide.” Sharma dedicated the inscription to the wisdom of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and described the moment as the result of “teamwork and perseverance.”
Culture Ministry applauds the milestone
The Ministry of Culture described the inclusion as a tribute to India’s enduring cultural legacy, showcasing the nation’s rich traditions of regional identity, military engineering, and historical continuity. Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat hailed it as a proud day for India and thanked Prime Minister Modi for his leadership in preserving the nation’s civilizational heritage.
Indeed, it’s an amazing moment for Maharashtra and India !
Thank you Sir for all your efforts and support to make this possible!@gssjodhpur #unescoworldheritage https://t.co/WNkssWAkXP— Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) July 11, 2025
From tentative list to global spotlight
Of the more than 390 Maratha forts across Maharashtra, only 12 were selected for this global recognition. Eight of these are protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
India currently ranks 6th globally and 2nd in the Asia-Pacific region for the number of World Heritage Sites. It also has 62 properties on UNESCO’s Tentative List, a prerequisite for future consideration.
Legacy lives on
The latest recognition solidifies the Maratha forts not just as historical monuments but as global cultural assets. They now stand tall on the world stage, representing India’s rich heritage, military ingenuity, and the resilient spirit of the Maratha Empire.
