Maratha Military Landscapes of India: UNESCO World Heritage Nomination 2024-25

India’s nomination for recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the year 2024-25 is the “Maratha Military Landscapes of India”. This extraordinary network of forts, developed between the 17th and 19th centuries, represents an extraordinary fortification and military system envisioned by the Maratha rulers. The twelve component parts of this nomination include:

I. Salher Fort :
Salher Fort, located near the town of Salher in the Nashik district of Maharashtra, India, has a rich history dating back to ancient times. Here’s an overview:

1. Ancient Origins: Salher Fort is believed to have been built around the 10th century by the Rashtrakutas, a dynasty that ruled parts of present-day Maharashtra and Karnataka. It served as a strategic stronghold to control trade routes and provide defense against invading forces.
2. Maratha Rule: Like many forts in the region, Salher Fort came under the control of the Maratha Empire in the 17th century. Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire, captured the fort from the Mughals during his military campaigns to establish Maratha sovereignty in the region.
3. Battle of Salher: The fort gained historical significance during the Battle of Salher in 1672, where the Marathas, led by Shivaji’s general, defeated the Mughal forces. This victory further solidified Maratha control over the region and demonstrated their military prowess.
4. Later History: After Shivaji Maharaj’s death, Salher Fort continued to play a strategic role in the region. It exchanged hands multiple times between the Marathas, Mughals, and the British during various conflicts and power struggles.
5. Tourist Destination: Today, Salher Fort is a popular tourist destination, known for its historical significance, architectural marvels, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It attracts visitors, trekkers, and history enthusiasts who come to explore its ruins, learn about its history, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Sahyadri mountains.

Overall, Salher Fort stands as a testament to the region’s rich history and the struggles of past rulers to establish and maintain control over its strategic location.
II. Shivneri Fort:
Shivneri Fort, located near Junnar in Pune district, Maharashtra, is renowned for its historical significance and association with Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. Here’s an overview of its history:

1. Early History: Shivneri Fort’s origins date back to the Yadava dynasty in the 11th century. It served as a strategic hill fortress, controlling the trade routes and providing protection to the surrounding region.
2. Shivaji Maharaj’s Birthplace: One of the most significant aspects of Shivneri Fort is that it is believed to be the birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj. He was born in the fort on February 19, 1630. This connection makes the fort a revered site for Maratha history and culture.
3. Maratha Rule: Shivneri Fort played a crucial role during the rise of the Maratha Empire. Shivaji Maharaj, inspired by the fort’s natural defenses, utilized it as a stronghold for his military campaigns against the Mughals and other regional powers.
4. Architectural Significance: The fort’s architecture includes various structures such as gates, bastions, water cisterns, and residential quarters. These features highlight the military ingenuity of the Marathas and their ability to adapt to the rugged terrain.
5. Legacy: After Shivaji Maharaj’s death, Shivneri Fort remained under Maratha control and continued to be an important stronghold. It later came under the control of the British during the colonial era.

Today, Shivneri Fort stands as a symbol of Maratha pride and valor. It attracts tourists, history enthusiasts, and pilgrims who visit to explore its ruins, learn about its history, and pay homage to Shivaji Maharaj.
III. Lohgad:
Lohagad Fort, situated near Malavali in the Pune district of Maharashtra, India, has a fascinating history:

1. Ancient Origins: Lohagad Fort has ancient roots, believed to date back to the Satavahana dynasty, which ruled the region around the 2nd century BCE. It served as a strategic outpost to control trade routes and provide protection to the surrounding area.
2. Medieval Period: During the medieval era, Lohagad Fort came under the control of various dynasties, including the Yadavas, Bahamanis, and the Nizamshahi sultans. Its strategic location in the Sahyadri mountains made it a prized possession for regional powers vying for dominance in the area.
3. Maratha Rule: In the 17th century, Lohagad Fort was captured by Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire, along with other forts in the region. The fort’s name, which means “Iron Fort,” reflects its sturdy construction and formidable defenses. Under Maratha rule, Lohagad served as a key military outpost and played a crucial role in Shivaji’s campaign to establish Maratha sovereignty.
4. British Era: Like many forts in Maharashtra, Lohagad Fort came under British control during the colonial period. The British recognized its strategic importance and used it as a military outpost.
5. Independence Movement: During the Indian independence movement, Lohagad Fort witnessed activities by freedom fighters who sought to overthrow British rule. Its rugged terrain and natural defenses made it an ideal hideout for guerrilla warfare against the colonial forces.
6. Tourism: Today, Lohagad Fort is a popular tourist destination, known for its historical significance, architectural ruins, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the fort’s various structures, including gates, bastions, and water cisterns, while enjoying trekking and hiking opportunities in the picturesque Sahyadri mountains.

Overall, Lohagad Fort stands as a symbol of Maharashtra’s rich history and cultural heritage, attracting visitors from across India and around the world to experience its beauty and learn about its storied past.
IV. Khanderi Fort:
Khanderi Fort, situated near the coast of Maharashtra, is an ancient fort with a significant history:

1. Portuguese Influence: Khanderi Fort was originally built by the Portuguese in the 16th century as part of their coastal defense strategy. They constructed the fort to protect their interests and control maritime trade routes along the Konkan coast.
2. Maratha Control: In the 17th century, during the reign of Shivaji Maharaj, the Marathas captured Khanderi Fort from the Portuguese. Shivaji recognized its strategic importance and used it as a base to strengthen Maratha naval power in the Arabian Sea.
3. Naval Base: Khanderi Fort, along with its neighboring fort, Underi Fort, served as a vital naval base for the Marathas. They used the forts to control maritime activities, defend against enemy attacks, and launch expeditions against coastal territories held by foreign powers.
4. British Occupation: During the 18th century, the British East India Company gained control over Khanderi Fort after defeating the Marathas in various battles. The British recognized its strategic value and utilized it to strengthen their presence along the Konkan coast.
5. Fortifications: Khanderi Fort features impressive fortifications, including sturdy walls, bastions, and gun emplacements. These structures reflect the military engineering prowess of the Portuguese and later modifications made by the Marathas and the British.
6. Tourism: Today, Khanderi Fort is a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors interested in exploring its historical ruins, enjoying scenic views of the Arabian Sea, and learning about its rich maritime heritage. Boat rides to the fort are available from nearby coastal towns, adding to the adventure and charm of visiting this historic site.

Overall, Khanderi Fort’s history reflects the maritime struggles and strategic rivalries that shaped the coastal regions of Maharashtra during different periods of history.
V. Raigad:
Raigad Fort, located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, India, has a rich and storied history:

1. Yadava Dynasty: The origins of Raigad Fort date back to the Yadava dynasty in the 11th century. It served as a strategic hill fortress to control trade routes and provide protection to the surrounding region.
2. Maratha Empire: Raigad gained prominence during the reign of Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. In 1674, Shivaji chose Raigad as the capital of his empire and undertook significant fortifications and administrative reforms. The fort became the center of Maratha power and administration for several decades.
3. Coronation: One of the most significant events in Raigad’s history was Shivaji Maharaj’s coronation as Chhatrapati (emperor) in 1674. The coronation ceremony, known as the “Rajyabhishek,” symbolized the establishment of Maratha sovereignty and independence from foreign rule.
4. Military Significance: Raigad Fort was strategically located atop a hill, providing natural defenses against enemy attacks. Its fortified walls, gates, and bastions made it a formidable stronghold and allowed the Marathas to resist numerous attempts by Mughal forces to capture it.
5. British Occupation: After the death of Shivaji Maharaj, Raigad Fort continued to be an important center of Maratha power. However, it eventually fell to the British East India Company in 1818 during the Third Anglo-Maratha War. The British dismantled much of the fort’s structures and used it as a military outpost.
6. Tourism: Today, Raigad Fort is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from across India and around the world. Tourists can explore the fort’s ruins, including the remains of the palace, courtrooms, and residential quarters. The fort offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and provides insights into Maharashtra’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Overall, Raigad Fort stands as a symbol of Maratha pride and valor, representing the legacy of Shivaji Maharaj and the resilience of the Maratha Empire against foreign powers.
VI. Rajgad:
Rajgad Fort, located near Pune in Maharashtra, India, has a fascinating history:

1. Early History: Rajgad Fort has ancient origins, with evidence of human habitation dating back to at least the 2nd century BCE. Initially known as Murumdev, it was later fortified by the Yadava dynasty in the 14th century.
2. Maratha Rule: Rajgad gained prominence during the reign of Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. It served as one of the primary forts in the Maratha kingdom and played a crucial role in Shivaji’s military campaigns to establish Maratha sovereignty.
3. Strategic Importance: Rajgad Fort’s strategic location atop the Sahyadri mountains provided natural defenses and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Its extensive fortifications, including sturdy walls, gates, and watchtowers, made it a formidable stronghold.
4. Administrative Center: During Shivaji Maharaj’s reign, Rajgad Fort served as an important administrative and military center. It housed government offices, residential quarters for officials, and storage facilities for provisions and ammunition.
5. British Occupation: After the decline of the Maratha Empire, Rajgad Fort came under British control in the early 19th century. The British recognized its strategic significance and utilized it as a military outpost.
6. Tourism: Today, Rajgad Fort is a popular tourist destination, attracting history enthusiasts, trekkers, and nature lovers. Visitors can explore the fort’s ruins, including its various structures and water cisterns, while enjoying scenic views of the surrounding Sahyadri mountains.

Overall, Rajgad Fort stands as a symbol of Maharashtra’s rich history and cultural heritage, reflecting the legacy of Shivaji Maharaj and the resilience of the Maratha Empire against foreign powers.
VII. Pratapgad:
Pratapgad Fort, located near Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra, India, has a captivating history:

1. Construction: Pratapgad Fort was built in the 17th century by Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. Its construction was completed in 1656. The fort was strategically positioned to overlook the trade route between the villages of Par and Kinesvar.
2. Battle of Pratapgad: One of the most significant events in Pratapgad’s history is the Battle of Pratapgad, which took place in 1659 between Shivaji Maharaj and Afzal Khan, a general of the Adil Shahi Sultanate. Shivaji defeated Afzal Khan in a legendary encounter at the fort, marking a significant victory for the Marathas.
3. Architecture: Pratapgad Fort showcases impressive architectural features, including sturdy ramparts, bastions, and gates. The fort’s layout is designed to maximize its defensive capabilities while providing commanding views of the surrounding landscape.
4. Maratha Control: After Shivaji Maharaj’s victory at Pratapgad, the fort remained under Maratha control and served as an important stronghold in the region. It played a crucial role in protecting Maratha territories and controlling trade routes.
5. British Occupation: During the 19th century, Pratapgad Fort came under British control as part of the British East India Company’s expansion in India. The British recognized its strategic importance and utilized it as a military outpost.
6. Tourism: Today, Pratapgad Fort is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors interested in exploring its historical ruins, learning about its significance in Maratha history, and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding Sahyadri mountains. The fort’s accessibility and natural beauty make it a favorite destination for trekkers and nature enthusiasts.

Overall, Pratapgad Fort stands as a testament to the valor and military prowess of Shivaji Maharaj and the Marathas, as well as a symbol of Maharashtra’s rich cultural heritage.
VIII. Suvarnadurg:
Suvarnadurg Fort, situated off the coast of Maharashtra near Harnai, has a compelling history:

1. Construction: Suvarnadurg Fort was built by Shivaji Maharaj in the 17th century to protect the coastline from enemy attacks and to control maritime trade routes along the Konkan coast. Construction of the fort was completed in 1660.
2. Strategic Location: Suvarnadurg is strategically located on a small island, making it difficult for enemies to approach. Its position allowed the Marathas to monitor and control maritime activities in the Arabian Sea.
3. Naval Base: Suvarnadurg served as an important naval base for the Marathas, who used it to launch expeditions against enemy territories, protect their coastline from foreign invaders, and safeguard maritime trade.
4. Portuguese Influence: Prior to the construction of Suvarnadurg, the Portuguese had a stronghold in the area known as Goa Dourada. Shivaji Maharaj captured this Portuguese fortification and later built Suvarnadurg in its place, incorporating some of the existing structures into the new fort.
5. British Occupation: Like many forts in Maharashtra, Suvarnadurg came under British control during the colonial period. The British recognized its strategic importance and utilized it as a military outpost.
6. Tourism: Today, Suvarnadurg Fort is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors interested in exploring its historical ruins, learning about its significance in Maratha history, and enjoying activities such as snorkeling, diving, and boat rides in the Arabian Sea. The fort’s picturesque location and historical significance make it a unique and memorable destination for tourists.

Overall, Suvarnadurg Fort stands as a testament to the maritime heritage of Maharashtra and the strategic vision of Shivaji Maharaj in fortifying the coastline to protect his kingdom from foreign powers.
IX. Panhala Fort:
Panhala Fort, located near Kolhapur in Maharashtra, India, has a rich and eventful history:

1. Ancient Origins: Panhala Fort’s history dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human habitation in the area dating as far back as the 12th century BCE. The fort’s strategic location atop a hill provided natural defenses and made it an important stronghold for various rulers throughout history.
2. Yadava Dynasty: Panhala Fort was initially built by the Yadava dynasty in the 12th century. It served as a key military outpost and played a significant role in controlling trade routes and protecting the region from external threats.
3. Bahamani and Adil Shahi Rule: During the medieval period, Panhala Fort came under the control of the Bahamani Sultanate and later the Adil Shahi dynasty of Bijapur. The fort underwent significant expansions and fortifications under their rule, with additions such as bastions, gateways, and water reservoirs.
4. Maratha Empire: In the 17th century, Panhala Fort gained prominence during the reign of Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. Shivaji Maharaj captured the fort from the Bijapur Sultanate in 1659 after a prolonged siege. The fort subsequently served as an important administrative center and military stronghold for the Marathas.
5. British Occupation: During the 19th century, Panhala Fort came under British control as part of the British East India Company’s expansion in India. The British recognized its strategic significance and utilized it as a military outpost.
6. Tourism: Today, Panhala Fort is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors interested in exploring its historical ruins, admiring its architectural marvels, and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The fort’s well-preserved structures, including the Andhar Bavadi (hidden well), Sajja Kothi (Ambarkhana), and the Teen Darwaza (triple gateway), offer insights into its rich history and cultural heritage.

Overall, Panhala Fort stands as a symbol of Maharashtra’s rich historical legacy and the resilience of its rulers against foreign invasions.
X. Vijaydurg:
Vijaydurg Fort, located in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra, India, has a significant history:

1. Early Origins: Vijaydurg Fort has ancient origins dating back to the 12th century when it was known as Gheria Fort. It was initially built by the Silhara dynasty and later came under the control of the Adil Shahi dynasty of Bijapur.
2. Maratha Empire: In the 17th century, Vijaydurg gained prominence during the reign of Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. Shivaji captured the fort from the Adil Shahi forces in 1653 after a fierce battle. He renamed it Vijaydurg, which means “Victory Fort,” to commemorate his triumph.
3. Naval Base: Vijaydurg Fort served as a vital naval base for the Marathas, who used it to control maritime trade routes along the Konkan coast. Its strategic location provided easy access to the Arabian Sea, allowing the Marathas to launch naval expeditions and protect their coastline from foreign invasions.
4. Architectural Marvels: Vijaydurg Fort is renowned for its impressive architectural features, including sturdy walls, bastions, and gateways. The fort’s layout is designed to maximize its defensive capabilities while providing commanding views of the surrounding sea.
5. British Occupation: During the 19th century, Vijaydurg Fort came under British control as part of the British East India Company’s expansion in India. The British recognized its strategic importance and utilized it as a military outpost.
6. Tourism: Today, Vijaydurg Fort is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors interested in exploring its historical ruins, learning about its significance in Maratha history, and enjoying panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. The fort’s accessibility and well-preserved structures make it a favorite destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Overall, Vijaydurg Fort stands as a symbol of Maharashtra’s rich maritime heritage and the valor of the Marathas in defending their coastline against foreign powers.
XI. Sindhudurg in Maharashtra:
Sindhudurg, located in the southwestern part of Maharashtra, India, is a district known for its historical significance, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. Here’s an overview:

1. History: Sindhudurg district is named after the Sindhudurg Fort, a historic fortification built by Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire, in the 17th century. The fort served as a strategic naval base to protect the Konkan coastline from foreign invasions.
2. Sindhudurg Fort: The Sindhudurg Fort is one of the main attractions in the district. Built on an island off the coast of Malvan, it is renowned for its impressive architecture, sturdy walls, and historical significance. Visitors can explore the fort and learn about its role in Maratha history.
3. Beaches: Sindhudurg is blessed with pristine beaches along its coastline, including Tarkarli Beach, Devbagh Beach, and Malvan Beach. These beaches are known for their golden sands, clear waters, and opportunities for water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and parasailing.
4. Marine Life: The waters around Sindhudurg are rich in marine biodiversity, making it a popular destination for diving enthusiasts. The region is home to vibrant coral reefs, colorful fish, and other marine creatures, offering a unique underwater experience.
5. Cuisine: Sindhudurg is famous for its delicious seafood cuisine, influenced by the coastal culture of the region. Visitors can savor local delicacies such as Malvani fish curry, seafood thali, and sol kadhi, a refreshing drink made from kokum fruit and coconut milk.
6. Cultural Heritage: The district is steeped in cultural heritage, with a blend of Marathi, Konkani, and Malvani traditions. Visitors can explore ancient temples, historic forts, and traditional villages to experience the rich cultural tapestry of the region.

Overall, Sindhudurg district offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and culture, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking an authentic and enriching experience in Maharashtra.
XII. Gingee Fort in Tamil Nadu:
Gingee Fort, also known as Senji Fort, is a historic fort located in the Villupuram district of Tamil Nadu, India. It has a fascinating history:

1. Early Origins: Gingee Fort’s history dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human habitation in the area dating as far back as the 9th century. The original fortifications were built during the Chola dynasty’s rule.
2. Medieval Period: Gingee Fort gained prominence during the medieval period when it came under the control of various dynasties, including the Nayaks of Gingee, the Vijayanagara Empire, and the Marathas. The fort underwent significant expansions and fortifications under their rule.
3. Vijayanagara and Nayak Rule: During the 15th and 16th centuries, Gingee Fort was an important stronghold for the Vijayanagara Empire and later the Nayaks of Gingee. It served as a strategic military outpost and played a crucial role in defending against foreign invasions.
4. Maratha Occupation: In the 17th century, Gingee Fort came under the control of the Maratha king Shivaji Maharaj, who captured it in 1677 after a prolonged siege. The Marathas recognized its strategic importance and utilized it as a military base to expand their influence in the region.
5. British Era: Gingee Fort later came under British control during the colonial period. The British recognized its strategic significance and utilized it as a military outpost.
6. Architecture: Gingee Fort is renowned for its impressive architectural features, including sturdy walls, bastions, and gateways. The fort’s layout is designed to maximize its defensive capabilities while providing commanding views of the surrounding landscape.

Today, Gingee Fort stands as a testament to Tamil Nadu’s rich history and cultural heritage. It attracts visitors interested in exploring its historical ruins, admiring its architectural marvels, and learning about its significance in the region’s history.

All these 12 components are distributed across diverse geographical and physiographic regions, showcasing the strategic military prowess of the Maratha rule. The forts vary in hierarchies, scales, and typological features, integrating the landscape, terrain, and physiographic characteristics distinctive to the Sahyadri mountain ranges, the Konkan Coast, Deccan Plateau, and the Eastern Ghats in the Indian Peninsula.

The inception of the Maratha Military ideology dates back to the 17th century during the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and continued through subsequent rules until the Peshwa rule in 1818 CE. These forts hold immense historical and cultural significance, bearing testimony to a unique tradition and illustrating significant stages in human history.

There are criteria for inclusion in the World Heritage List, and the Maratha Military Landscapes of India meet the following criteria:

1. Criterion (iii): To bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or civilization.
2. Criterion (iv): To be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble, or landscape that illustrates significant stages in human history.
3. Criterion (vi): To be directly or tangibly associated with events, living traditions, ideas, or artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance.