Chhatrapati Sambhaji Raje : Fort Preservation is Our Collective Duty
The 12 historic forts in Maharashtra, which have become symbols of Shivaji-era warfare, have now been officially included in UNESCO's World Heritage List. This effort, initiated from the perspective of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Raje, has finally borne fruit, marking a golden moment for the state's cultural and historical identity. Meanwhile, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Raje highlighted several issues in a conversation with 'Lokshahi Marathi'.
The list includes a total of 12 forts, including Raigad, Torna, Lohagad, and Subhedar's Jinji Fort, with Pratapgad, Panhala, and Jinji, which were initially not in the list, being specially included upon insistence.
Success after efforts since 2015
In 2015, a preliminary meeting took place at the India Habitat Centre in Delhi with UNESCO advisor Dr. Shikha Jain and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Raje. Subsequently, in 2016, an official meeting was held in the presence of then Cultural Minister Vinod Tawde. During this period, the forts underwent aerial surveys, report presentations, visits by UNESCO experts, and sensitive follow-ups, progressing towards important heritage documentation.
In 2019, actual work began. Dr. Shikha Jain was appointed as the chief advisor. In 2024, the UNESCO committee visited the forts in Maharashtra and made the final decision. This decision has now received official recognition.
'Raigad Model': A Success Story of Self-Financed Planning
In this process, an independent 'Site Management Plan' was prepared for the conservation of Raigad Fort. This plan was developed in-house rather than outsourced by the government, saving approximately 7 million rupees. This successful example has established a guiding model for the conservation of other forts in the future.
Result of Government Coordination
In this initiative, the contributions of Vinod Tawde, Amit Deshmukh, Sudhir Mungantiwar, Ashish Shelar, along with Cultural Secretary Vikas Kharge, proved significant. Chhatrapati Sambhaji Raje personally held discussions with the Archaeology Department several times to ensure the inclusion of Jinji and Pratapgad in the list.
"My Fort, My Responsibility"
Raje introduced the tagline "My Fort, My Responsibility" during the coronation ceremony. Explaining the meaning behind it, he said, "Cleanliness, environment, and disciplined behavior on forts are not just the responsibility of the government, but also of every Shiv lover."
Need to Establish a Corporation
Raje emphasized the need to establish an independent corporation or authorized institution for the conservation of forts. Due to limited manpower in the archaeological department, he proposed the need for an independent institution, special powers, and a master plan for comprehensive management.
Recognition from the Prime Minister, Expectations from the People
After this historic announcement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended greetings to the Marathi people via Twitter. “This is a moment of pride for every Shiv lover and Marathi person,” he said in his message. Sambhaji Raje said, “I started, but this credit does not belong to any one person. Shivaji Maharaj belongs to everyone, and the responsibility to preserve their forts is also our collective duty.”
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