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India is set to showcase its rich historical heritage on the global stage, with the nomination of "Maratha Military Landscapes of India" for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List for 2024-25. This extraordinary ensemble of forts, developed between the 17th and 19th centuries, stands as a testament to the strategic brilliance of the Maratha rulers. Let's delve into the details of this remarkable nomination, highlighting the significance and diversity of the Maratha Military Landscapes.
The Nomination:
"Maratha Military Landscapes of India" encompasses twelve distinct components, each contributing to the narrative of Maratha military prowess. These include renowned forts like Salher, Shivneri, Lohgad, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg in Maharashtra, and Gingee Fort in Tamil Nadu. Spanning diverse geographical regions, these forts showcase the Maratha rulers' strategic mastery, blending seamlessly with the unique landscapes of the Sahyadri mountain ranges, Konkan Coast, Deccan Plateau, and the Eastern Ghats.
The Diversity of Forts:
While Maharashtra boasts over 390 forts, only twelve have been selected under the Maratha Military Landscapes of India nomination. Noteworthy among these are Shivneri fort, Lohgad, Raigad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala fort, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg, and Gingee fort, each offering a distinct perspective on Maratha military architecture. Protected by the Archaeological Survey of India and the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, Government of Maharashtra, these forts range from hill forts and hill-plateau forts to coastal and island forts.
Historical Roots:
The inception of the Maratha Military ideology dates back to the 17th century, during the reign of the visionary Maratha King, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, around 1670 CE. This military ideology continued through subsequent rules until the Peshwa rule concluded in 1818 CE. The forts within the Maratha Military Landscapes bear witness to centuries of strategic planning and historical significance.
UNESCO Criteria:
The nomination falls under the cultural criteria for inclusion in the World Heritage List, specifically under criteria (iii), (iv), and (vi). These criteria recognize the site's unique testimony to a cultural tradition, its outstanding architectural and technological ensemble, and its direct association with events, living traditions, and beliefs of universal significance.
India's World Heritage Presence:
Currently, India boasts 42 World Heritage sites, with Maharashtra contributing significantly. The "Maratha Military Landscapes of India" joins the prestigious list that includes iconic cultural sites like Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus. This nomination adds to Maharashtra's cultural wealth and is the sixth cultural property from the state nominated for inclusion in the World Heritage List.
As India proudly nominates the "Maratha Military Landscapes of India" for UNESCO recognition, it opens a gateway to a unique historical journey. These forts not only showcase the military genius of the Maratha rulers but also stand as symbols of resilience and strategic brilliance. The inclusion of this nomination in the UNESCO World Heritage List will not only honor India's rich heritage but also invite global acknowledgment and appreciation for the exceptional cultural and historical significance of the Maratha Military Landscapes.
