PM hails UNESCO recognition of 12 Maratha Forts

New Delhi, Jul 27: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his Mann Ki Baat address on Sunday, celebrated the UNESCO recognition of 12 Maratha forts as World Heritage Sites—11 located in Maharashtra and one in Tamil Nadu—calling it a moment of national pride and a tribute to India’s rich historical legacy.

“These forts are not just bricks and stones; they are symbols of our heritage, values, and self-respect,” said the Prime Minister.

He encouraged citizens, especially the youth, to visit these historic sites and learn about the glorious chapters of India’s past etched into their walls. Among the highlighted forts were Salher, where the Mughals were defeated; Shivneri, the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj; Khanderi, built in the middle of the sea; Pratapgarh, where Shivaji defeated Afzal Khan; and Vijaydurg, renowned for its strategic tunnels and coastal defences.

Mr. Modi also recalled his visit to Raigad Fort, calling it a deeply moving experience. Beyond Maharashtra, the Prime Minister named other iconic forts across India: Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh, Ranthambore, Amer, and Jaisalmer in Rajasthan; Gulbarga and Chitradurga in Karnataka; and several in Bundelkhand, including Kalinjar, Jhansi, Gwalior, Chanderi, and others. “These forts have faced countless invasions and harsh weather but have never allowed the spirit of the land to bow down,” he said. Modi urged people to explore these historical monuments to gain a deeper understanding of India’s cultural heritage and national pride.