India is putting forth the “Maratha Military Landscapes of India” for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List for the year 2024-25. This nomination comprises twelve significant forts, such as Salher Fort, Shivneri Fort, and Raigad, spread across Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu. These forts, developed between the 17th and 19th centuries, exemplify the extraordinary fortification and military system envisioned by the Maratha rulers.
The forts are strategically distributed across diverse geographical and physiographic regions, showcasing the Maratha military’s adaptability to various terrains in the Indian Peninsula. The Sahyadri mountain ranges, Konkan Coast, Deccan Plateau, and the Eastern Ghats all bear witness to the integration of landscape, terrain, and physiographic characteristics into this exceptional network of forts.
Out of Maharashtra’s over 390 forts, only twelve are selected for the Maratha Military Landscapes of India, with eight protected by the Archaeological Survey of India. The nominated forts include hill forts like Shivneri Fort, Lohgad, and Rajgad, as well as island forts like Khanderi Fort and coastal forts like Vijaydurg.
This nomination traces back to the 17th century during the reign of Maratha King Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, continuing through subsequent rules until Peshwa rule until 1818 CE. The Maratha Military Landscapes of India represent an outstanding cultural testimony to civilization and an exceptional example of fortification illustrating significant stages in human history.
The nomination falls under cultural criteria, specifically criteria (iii), (iv), and (vi) of UNESCO’s guidelines. India currently boasts 42 World Heritage sites, with Maharashtra contributing significantly to this list. If included, the Maratha Military Landscapes of India will be the sixth cultural property from Maharashtra to join the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List.
