After UNESCO tag on 12 forts, stage set for restoration saga

Stakeholders in government and scholars speak up about the rough road ahead to restore and preserve the citadels, most of them languishing in neglect and dotted with encroachments

- Shrinivas Deshpande

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recently endorsed the ‘Maratha Military Landscapes of India’ by listing 12 forts, built and developed by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and through the Maratha reign, in its prestigious list of World Heritage Sites.

The recognition brought much jubilation, with chief minister Devendra Fadnavis calling it “a proud and glorious moment” and congratulating “all citizens and Shivbhakts of Maharashtra”. But, after the celebratory fervour comes the daunting task of preservation and upkeep of the ancient citadels.

Members of the State Fort Restoration Committee, a body under the ministry of culture, said the real challenge begins now ~ to restore, protect and manage these forts in a scientific and sustainable way to maintain their UNESCO status. “While it was tough to get the UNESCO tag, maintaining them will be harder. Scientific restoration and preserving Maratha empire's culture is now a priority,” said Sanket Kulkarni, a member of the committee.