MUMBAI: Shiv Sena(UBT) on Monday hailed UNESCO’s move to grant World Heritage Site status to 12 forts built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, saying that it is a matter of pride for Maharashtra and the Marathi people. However, the Thackeray faction criticised the BJP’s move to organise events to celebrate the decision.
In its mouthpiece, Saamana editorial, the Shiv Sena(UBT) claimed that the BJP was "born" for such 'celebrations', and asked whether it will be able to protect the World Heritage Site status and Chhatrapati Shivaji’s legacy.
"Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj did not build palaces but built forts to protect Swarajya. These forts were the assets of Swarajya. Therefore, the importance of forts in the history and culture of Maharashtra is indisputable. Chhatrapati was crowned at Raigad Fort and also made his capital at Raigad Fort. The importance of forts in Shivaji Maharaj's life and struggle was as this. The rulers of India celebrated festivals at these forts, but Delhi or Maharashtra did not make any special efforts to preserve this rich heritage, " the deity piece said.