UNESCO has recently recognised the Maratha Military landscapes of India as a World Heritage site. This prestigious acknowledgment includes twelve majestic forts, with eleven located in Maharashtra and one in Tamil Nadu. PM Narendra Modi expressed his elation on X, stating that every Indian is thrilled with this recognition. He remarked, “When we speak of the glorious Maratha Empire, we associate it with good governance, military strength, cultural pride, and emphasis on social welfare." PM Modi rightly pointed out that these Maratha forts, from Raigad to Gingee, narrate the saga of Maratha courage and cultural pride, inspiring generations. While a comprehensive account of the Maratha Navy and its exploits is still sparse, what remains hidden in the layers of history is gradually being unveiled.

A few scholars have delved into the structure, function, and exploits of the Maratha Navy, with BK Apte being the most prominent among them. Renowned historians like Jadunath Sarkar and Surendranath Sen have discussed the Maratha Navy in their monographs. A nationalistic approach to understanding the career of Maratha Admiral Kanhoji Angre was taken by Malgaonkar. Under Admiral Angre’s leadership, the Maratha Navy made European fleets appear insignificant in the Konkan waters, and his exploits are noted in some European works, notably those of GA Ballard and John Bidulph.

A new book providing a comprehensive account of Maratha Naval supremacy will soon be available. The collection of ten essays titled “Tides of Triumph"........

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