UNESCO Just Honored Shivaji Maharaj’s 12 Forts—Here’s Why It’s a Big Deal
Okay, this is huge. UNESCO just slapped the World Heritage tag on 12 of Shivaji Maharaj’s forts, and honestly? It’s about time. These aren’t just piles of old rocks—they’re the backbone of Maratha pride, soaked in stories of crazy battles, genius strategies, and one man’s fight for Swarajya. Let me break it down for you.
Why UNESCO Finally Noticed
Look, UNESCO doesn’t just hand out these titles like candy. These forts had to tick some serious boxes:
- Built different: Imagine mixing military smarts with the lay of the land—that’s how these forts were designed. Pure genius.
- History that hits hard: This is where the Marathas told the Mughals and British, “Nope, not today.”
- More than just walls: Shivaji wasn’t just about fighting—he built systems, empowered people. These forts are proof.
Dr. Meena Kumar put it perfectly: “You think these are just old buildings? Try telling that to the generations who found freedom here.”
The Dirty Dozen (In the Best Way)
1. Raigad Fort
Basically Shivaji’s throne room. Crowned himself here in 1674. And that cliffside location? Cheat code for defense.
2. Sinhagad Fort
Ever heard of Tanaji and his pet lizard? Dude scaled these walls in 1670 like it was nothing. Views? Unreal.
3. Pratapgad Fort
Where Shivaji pulled the ultimate “talk crap, get slapped” on Afzal Khan. The Bhavani Temple here? Still packed.
4. Shivneri Fort
Birthplace of the legend himself. That zigzag entrance wasn’t just for looks—it wrecked invaders’ plans.
5. Rajgad Fort
Maratha capital before Raigad. Triple walls? Yeah, Shivaji didn’t do things halfway.
6. Torna Fort
Kid Shivaji—just 16—took this in 1646. Starter pack for an empire. Trekkers love it now.
7. Lohagad Fort
Controlled the money routes. Rumor has it there’s still treasure hidden in there. No, I haven’t found it yet.
8. Sindhudurg Fort
Shivaji’s ocean flex. Built on an island, walls held together with molten lead. Absolute madness.
9. Vijaydurg Fort
Undefeated. Had underwater walls to sink enemy ships. Yeah, they thought of everything.
10. Panhala Fort
Held this one the longest. Also where he pulled a Houdini act escaping Mughals.
11. Murud-Janjira Fort
The one sea fort nobody could crack. Different vibe from his land forts.
12. Purandar Fort
Where the Marathas said “we’ll bend but not break” during the 1665 treaty. Tough as nails.
Why This Matters Right Now
This isn’t just about history books. Real talk:
- Tourism boom: We’re talking 40% more visitors. Cha-ching for local businesses.
- Money for repairs: Some of these forts were crumbling. Now? They’ll get the care they deserve.
- World stage: Maratha history finally getting its global close-up.
If You’re Planning a Visit
When to go: October to March—unless you enjoy monsoon trekking (you masochist).
Local guides: Worth every rupee. They’ll tell you stories that’ll make your hair stand.
Can’t-miss spots: Raigad’s Hirkani Buruj (that cliffside bastion is nuts) and Sindhudurg’s secret inscriptions.
Final Thought
This UNESCO tag? It’s not just a shiny plaque. It’s a reminder that some stones speak louder than words. Shivaji didn’t just build forts—he built hope. And walking these walls today? You’re not just a tourist. You’re keeping the story alive.
Source: News18 Hindi – Nation