Pune | July 12, 2025 A historical event that will be recorded as a golden moment in the history of Maharashtra and the whole of India has recently taken place. The 12 forts built and restored by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj have now been officially included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This is a decision that increases the pride of Maharashtra, Shiva lovers and India.
Forts are the identity of Maharashtra
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj established the ‘Durgrajya’, which strengthened the Maratha empire. These forts were not only for military use, but were centers of governance, culture, self-rule and self-awareness. Each of these forts testifies to a separate history.
Which are the 12 forts that have been granted UNESCO status as World Heritage Sites?
The list of forts recognized by UNESCO is as follows:
Rajgad – Shivaji’s first capital fort
Torna – Shivaji Maharaj’s first conquered fort
Raigad – the capital of Swarajya, the site of Shivaji’s coronation
Pratapgad – the historic battle of Afzal Khan’s death
Sindhudurg – a strong fort located in the sea
Vijaydurg – the main center of the navy
Rajmachi – a unique fort in the mountains
Salher – the highest fort in Maharashtra
Shivneri – the birthplace of the Chhatrapatis
Panhala – a large fort during the Adilshahi era
Bhuikot Solapur Fort – a model of architecture
Lohargad – strong gates and inaccessible entrances
https://tripxl.com/blog/shivaji-maharaj-fort/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Whose efforts are behind this success?
The Archaeological Survey of India, the Government of Maharashtra, as well as historians, fort lovers’ organizations and an association of Indian representatives who are in constant communication with UNESCO, have been making continuous efforts since 2018 to achieve this recognition. The proposal, titled “Maratha Military Landscapes”, highlighted the historical, cultural, geographical and architectural importance of the forts.
What exactly is the recognition of a World Heritage Site?
When a site is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list, it gets international recognition, funding for conservation, increased tourism, and a global platform for research. As a result, these 12 forts will now get a new lease of life.
Reaction of Shiv Premi: “This is not just an honor, now it is our responsibility“
There is an atmosphere of immense joy among Shiv Premi in Pune, Kolhapur, Ratnagiri and Raigad. Gadkot conservation activists, history scholars, and young Durg Sevaks have been inspired by this.
“This is not just a matter of pride, now we also have the responsibility to protect this heritage,” said Mr. Bhujbal, a member of the Raigad Bachao Samiti.
Golden opportunity for tourism
With its inclusion in this list, the influx of international tourists to these forts will increase. The Tourism Development Corporation has announced the launch of special packages and information centers.
In the end, only one thing – pride, inspiration and duty!
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is a symbol of a vision, the concept of Swarajya and courage. His fort heritage will now be recognized all over the world. But with this, our role has become more important — it is now our collective duty to conserve, clean and preserve the history of these forts.