Shivaji Maharaj’s Forts Enter UNESCO World Heritage List; Celebrations Erupt in Pune with Sweets and Fireworks
Kasba Peth, 12th July 2025: A wave of pride swept through Pune today as the forts built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, symbols of valor and Maratha heritage, were officially included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List. To mark this historic moment, Kasba Peth MLA Hemant Rasane led a grand celebration at the iconic Lal Mahal, distributing sweets and joining citizens in a spirited display of joy.
The atmosphere at Lal Mahal was electrifying as BJP office bearers, workers, and citizens gathered in large numbers. Dressed in traditional attire and donning saffron turbans, a symbol of Maharashtra’s cultural identity, participants exchanged sweets and celebrated with dazzling firecrackers. The air echoed with thunderous chants of “Jai Bhavani, Jai Shivaji!”
Speaking at the occasion, MLA Hemant Rasane said, “The fort culture established by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj represents the extraordinary military strength of the Maratha Empire. The global recognition of these forts is a moment of immense pride for every Indian. This honor is not just for Maharashtra but for the entire nation. It will significantly boost tourism across the state. While the world already knows Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy, now the glory of his forts will also reach every corner of the globe.”
He extended heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and State Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar, along with all the officials who made this recognition possible.
MLA Hemant Rasane also expressed thanks to the state government for granting official status to Ganeshotsav as a state festival. “For the past 35–40 years, I have served as a Ganeshotsav volunteer. Since its inception by Lokmanya Tilak in 1893 to unite society, this festival has created lakhs of committed citizens working toward a just and prosperous India. Post-independence, Ganeshotsav has become Maharashtra’s biggest cultural celebration, observed in 175 countries, drawing lakhs of foreign tourists to Pune annually. I had demanded in the Legislative Assembly that Ganeshotsav be declared Maharashtra’s official state festival. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis immediately approved the demand, and I extend my heartfelt gratitude to him,” Rasane said.
