Every Stone of a Fort Is a Witness to History; PM Modi Highlights the Glory of Shivaji Maharaj’s Forts in ‘Mann Ki Baat’

New Delhi | “It is a matter of great pride that UNESCO has granted World Heritage Site status to 12 forts of the Marathas. Each of these forts is connected to a chapter of history, and every stone here is a witness to historical events,” said Prime Minister Narendra Modi, appreciating this historic recognition in his radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’.

Speaking in the 124th edition of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, Prime Minister Modi recalled the glorious history of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s forts. He said, “Out of these 12 forts, 11 are in Maharashtra and one is in Tamil Nadu. Each of these forts has its own glorious history.” Praising the valor and foresight of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Prime Minister Modi stated, “The fort of Salher, where the Marathas dealt a crushing defeat to the Mughals. Shivneri, where Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was born—such a secure fort that no enemy could ever breach it. The sea fort of Khanderi, built right in the middle of the ocean, is an incredible marvel. Enemies tried hard to stop them, but Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj achieved the impossible.”

On this occasion, the Prime Minister also reminisced about his visit to Raigad. “Pratapgad, where Afzal Khan was slain— the echo of that valor still resonates within the walls of the fort. Vijaydurg, which had hidden underground tunnels, is a fine example of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s foresight. A few years ago, I had visited Raigad and bowed before the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. That experience continues to be a lifelong inspiration for me,” he said.

The Prime Minister further stated that the forts of India have withstood numerous attacks and natural disasters but never let their pride falter. “There are also such magnificent forts in other parts of the country. The forts of Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh, Ranthambore, Amer, and Jaisalmer in Rajasthan are world-famous. The Gulbarga Fort in Karnataka is also grand. Looking at the vastness of the Chitradurga Fort, one wonders how it could have been constructed in those times,” he added.

Referring to the forts in Uttar Pradesh, the Prime Minister said, “In Banda, Uttar Pradesh, there is the Kalinjar Fort. Mahmud of Ghazni attacked this fort several times but failed every time. In Bundelkhand, there are many forts such as Gwalior, Jhansi, Datia, Ajaygarh, Garhkundar, and Chanderi. These forts are not just structures of bricks and stones—they are symbols of our culture and pride. Even today, our culture and pride reflect through the towering walls of these forts.”

It is noteworthy that earlier this month, at the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee, India’s 2024–25 nomination under the theme of “Maratha Military Architecture” was included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List. This became India’s 44th site to receive such an honor. According to an official statement by the Ministry of Culture, this global recognition has underscored India’s enduring cultural legacy, architectural diversity, and historical continuity on the world stage.