Twelve Forts of Valor Recommended for UNESCO World Heritage List

Showcasing Maharashtra’s legacy of courage, vision, and architectural brilliance on a global stage

Maharashtra is not just a land adorned with the rugged cliffs of the Sahyadris — it is a living testimony to history, valor, and the noble vision of Swarajya (self-rule). The chain of forts sanctified by the footsteps of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj still stands tall, echoing stories of unmatched bravery. Now, 12 historic forts, including 11 from Maharashtra and 1 from Tamil Nadu, have been nominated for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage list, further elevating Maharashtra’s pride and cultural prestige.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and his cabinet have welcomed this monumental recommendation, as have citizens who expressed their pride by visiting the forts. History, they emphasized, not only teaches us about the past but also inspires present and future generations with the spirit of resistance, cultural depth, and strategic foresight.

UNESCO’s Vision and Role

Established on November 16, 1945, in Paris, UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) aims to foster peace and cooperation through education, science, and culture. Its World Heritage Convention of 1972 seeks to identify, preserve, and promote globally significant cultural and natural sites.

India signed the convention in 1977, and since then, 42 Indian sites (27 cultural, 7 natural, 1 mixed, and others proposed) have earned World Heritage recognition. While forts in Rajasthan were included earlier, Maharashtra’s forts had remained overlooked—until now. With this nomination, global attention is finally drawn to their importance. Nominations are prepared by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in coordination with state governments, local bodies, and subject experts.

The 12 Forts of Valor

These nominated sites include:

• Raigad Fort – Capital of the Maratha Empire
• Rajgad Fort – Shivaji’s most cherished stronghold
• Pratapgad Fort – Where Afzal Khan met his end
• Panhala Fort – A witness to historic Maratha bravery
• Shivneri Fort – Birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj
• Lohgad Fort – Strategically built on a robust mountain range
• Salher Fort – Site of the first major Maratha victory
• Sindhudurg Fort – A naval bastion for maritime defense
• Suvarnadurg Fort – Vital for coastal surveillance
• Vijaydurg Fort – Center of Maratha naval warfare
• Khanderi Fort – Protecting the Mumbai coastline
• Gingee Fort (Tamil Nadu) – A southern frontier captured by the Marathas

These forts are not just architectural marvels but living embodiments of Maratha military strategy and political acumen.

Living Inscriptions of Strategy and Strength

The twelve forts narrate stories of strategic brilliance through their architecture. With unique features like ‘machis’ (outer bastions) — not found in any other forts globally — these strongholds served as both military bases and centers of statecraft. Their winding, camouflaged entrances and well-planned defensive gateways are silent teachers of guerrilla warfare tactics (‘Ganimi Kawa’).

These structures weren’t merely war zones — they were epicenters of the idea of Swarajya, spreading Shivaji Maharaj’s philosophy across the land. UNESCO evaluates nominations based on five criteria: historical and cultural significance, architectural uniqueness, global rarity, connection to human history, and state of conservation. Maharashtra’s forts fulfill all these benchmarks, justifying their place on the global heritage list.

Shivaji Maharaj’s Legacy Goes Global

This recognition allows Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy to be shared with the world. His innovative warfare strategies will now be studied alongside global military doctrines. Maharashtra’s architectural heritage will attract international tourists, providing a boost to heritage tourism and the local economy.

The inclusion of these 12 monuments of valor in the UNESCO nomination is a historic and proud moment for Maharashtra. These are not just relics of stone — they are symbols of freedom, courage, and unity. Through them, the thoughts, vision, and heroism of Shivaji Maharaj will reach future generations, making India’s legacy shine brighter on the global stage.