India’s Latest UNESCO Gem: Maratha Military Landscapes Join the World Heritage Family!
 |
| Suvarnadurg Fort |
In a historic cultural moment, India has added yet another jewel to its heritage crown — the mighty “Maratha Military Landscapes of India” have been inscribed as the 44th UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2025! This announcement has sent waves of pride across the nation, especially among history enthusiasts and travelers who are thrilled to see India’s glorious past gaining global recognition.
Echoes of Shivaji Maharaj Reverberate Worldwide
 |
| Raigarh Fort |
Imagine standing atop the grand Raigad Fort, feeling the winds of history whisper tales of valor and strategy. Or walking through the Sindhudurg Fort, where the sea roars against the ancient stones that once stood guard against foreign invaders. The newly crowned UNESCO heritage ensemble isn’t just about forts—it’s about the incredible story of the Maratha Empire, one of India’s most iconic and resilient kingdoms.
These 12 forts have scripted history:
✅ Raigad – The capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
✅ Shivneri – The birthplace of the great warrior king
✅ Rajgad, Pratapgad, Salher, Panhala, Lohagad – Fortresses nestled in the Sahyadri hills
✅ Sindhudurg, Vijaydurg, Suvarnadurg, Khanderi – Coastal sentinels standing tall against the Arabian Sea
✅ Gingee Fort in Tamil Nadu – A southern marvel of Maratha architecture
This extraordinary collection of forts showcases unmatched military genius, engineering brilliance, and Maratha administrative vision.
Every Indian is elated with this recognition.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 12, 2025
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
Why UNESCO Fell in Love with the Maratha Forts ❤️
 |
| Pratapgarh fort |
UNESCO recognized these sites under criteria (iv) and (vi), citing them as masterpieces of defensive architecture and symbols of historic resilience. These forts are not just piles of stone; they are living legends of strategy, valour, and governance that shaped Indian history in the 17th to 19th centuries.
More than their architecture, it’s the spirit of freedom and strategic brilliance — pioneered by Shivaji Maharaj — that captured UNESCO’s admiration.
A Victory for Indian Heritage, A Boost for Tourism 🚩
With this listing, India doesn’t just gain another heritage site—it gains an opportunity:
-
To boost heritage tourism in Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.
-
To celebrate Maratha pride on the global stage.
-
To safeguard these historic marvels with greater international attention and conservation efforts.
India’s Expanding World Heritage Club 🏆
With the Maratha forts, India now boasts 44 World Heritage Sites, standing proudly among the top nations preserving global cultural and natural wonders. Just last year, India’s Ahom Moidams of Assam got the UNESCO nod, and now the mighty Maratha forts take the honor forward.
This is not the end—India has several more contenders in UNESCO’s tentative list, from ancient temples to national parks, waiting to tell their stories to the world.
The World is Watching, Time to Explore!
This is a clarion call for:
🎒 Travelers – Pack your bags for a royal Maratha trail across Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.
📚 History lovers – Dive deep into the Maratha saga, beyond textbooks and legends.
🌍 Culture enthusiasts – Witness how India’s diversity and heritage continues to mesmerize the world.
🏞️ Final Thoughts:
The inclusion of the Maratha Military Landscapes isn’t just a victory for forts—it’s a celebration of India’s timeless glory, cultural strength, and historical richness. As these forts join the UNESCO elite club, they remind us that India’s true strength lies in preserving its past while marching confidently into the future.
Next time you hear the call of the hills or the sea, remember: there’s a piece of world heritage waiting for you!
📢 Tell us!
Which Maratha fort would you visit first? Raigad’s royal glory or Vijaydurg’s coastal charm? Share your travel plans!
#MarathaForts #UNESCOIndia #ShivajiMaharaj #WorldHeritageIndia #IncredibleIndia
.png)
0 Comments