Mumbai’s cultural spotlight is turning global as Maharashtra’s Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar prepares for a landmark trip to Paris. From February 11 to 16, Shelar will lead a delegation to receive the official UNESCO World Heritage certificate for 12 iconic forts linked to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s Hindavi Swarajya.
These forts, now recognized under the title ‘Maratha Military Landscapes of India,’ were inscribed on the UNESCO list during the organization’s 47th session on July 11, 2025. After over a year and a half of rigorous evaluation, this achievement celebrates Shivaji’s genius in military architecture and governance.
Shivaji Maharaj built this formidable network of forts to defend against foreign invasions, ensure secure administration, and promote public welfare. Spanning Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, the list includes Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Panhala, Shivneri, Lohagad, Salher, Sindhudurg, Suvarnadurg, Vijaydurg, Khanderi, and Gingee.
In Paris, Shelar’s team will formally accept the certificate at UNESCO headquarters. The visit also includes paying homage at the bust of Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, installed by Maharashtra’s Cultural Affairs Department.
This journey builds on a February 2025 presentation by a four-member Maharashtra delegation, which detailed the forts’ technical and strategic significance. Shelar will hold key meetings with UNESCO’s Director-General, experts, and India’s permanent representative Vishal Sharma to push for more Maharashtra sites.
Discussions will cover Konkan rock art, maritime forts, Pandharpur Wari, Ganeshotsav, and Dahi Handi for future UNESCO bids. The delegation will also study Paris museums to refine the upcoming Maharashtra Museum in Bandra, Mumbai, focusing on management, exhibitions, and digital tech.
This trip marks a proud chapter in globalizing Shivaji’s legacy and Maharashtra’s rich heritage, promising stronger cultural diplomacy.