Maharashtra Minister Ashish Shelar to Visit France for UNESCO Heritage Certificate Ceremony
Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar is set to embark on an official visit to France, where he will receive the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage certificate for 12 forts associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The delegation, led by Shelar, will be in Paris from February 11 to 16, 2026, marking a significant milestone in the state's cultural preservation efforts.
UNESCO Recognition for Maratha Military Landscapes
Following an extensive process that spanned nearly one and a half years, UNESCO officially inscribed these 12 forts on the World Heritage List during its 47th session on July 11, 2025. The forts, recognized under the title Maratha Military Landscapes of India, include Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Panhala, Shivneri, Lohagad, Salher, Sindhudurg, Suvarnadurg, Vijaydurg, Khanderi, and Gingee in Tamil Nadu.
In a press statement, Shelar emphasized the historical significance of these forts, stating, "The network of forts envisioned and established by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to safeguard Hindavi Swarajya against foreign invasions, ensure secure governance, and promote public welfare stands as an exemplary model of military strategy and statecraft in Indian history."
Paying Homage to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar at UNESCO Headquarters
During his visit, Shelar will also pay obeisance to the half-bust statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, which was installed at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris by the Department of Cultural Affairs, Government of Maharashtra. This statue was presented in February 2025 to commemorate 75 years of the Constitution of India and was officially installed on November 26, 2025, on Constitution Day.
Shelar highlighted the importance of this tribute, noting that it powerfully reiterates the values of Indian democracy on an international platform. He added that Dr. Ambedkar's ideals of social justice, equality, fraternity, and empowerment through education align closely with UNESCO's core mission.
Strengthening Cultural Heritage and Tourism Initiatives
The visit aims to further strengthen Maharashtra's cultural heritage and enhance its global standing. Shelar expressed confidence that this trip will bolster ongoing efforts to secure UNESCO recognition for other cultural assets, including:
- Konkan rock art
- Maharashtra's sea forts
- Intangible cultural heritage traditions such as Pandharpur Wari, Ganeshotsav, and Dahi Handi
Additionally, the delegation plans to study renowned museums in Paris, focusing on their management practices, exhibition design, and use of digital technologies. This research is intended to enrich the development of the proposed Maharashtra Museum in Bandra, Mumbai.
Meetings with UNESCO Officials and Future Prospects
Shelar will hold separate meetings with the Director-General of UNESCO, subject experts, and India's permanent representative to the UN agency, Vishal Sharma. These discussions are expected to foster stronger collaborations and support for future heritage projects.
This visit builds on a previous trip in February 2025, when a four-member delegation led by Shelar presented a comprehensive technical and strategic case before UNESCO. The official visit is anticipated to not only reinforce Maharashtra's cultural heritage but also boost its tourism potential and reinforce the state's position on the global stage.
