‘Maharashtra Government has taken a decision to give such mountain-forts on rent for developing tourism, which are not related to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Maratha Empire. Earlier, India was ruled by Hindu kings; therefore, there is no doubt that barring forts associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Maratha Empire, other forts were also built by Hindu kings. Mountain-forts are symbol of bravery and patriotism. The British tried to find out from where those brave fighters in Hinda-bhoomi got strength to fight against their regime. On finding out that mountain-forts were inspiring them to fight against enemies in ‘Hinda-bhoomi’, the British destroyed many such forts. It is unfortunate that the importance of mountain-forts, which was realized by the British, is not understood by us. It has been observed these days that the forts are used for improper things like consuming liquor, having rave-parties and by young couples for their amorous antics. In case, hotels are rented out under the guise of tourism, the above improper things would take place officially.’
‘The Government should carry out repairs of every fort and see to it that historical significance of such forts and history of bravery is spread amongst masses for generating patriotism amongst them. Such things would invoke valour amongst young generation and generate patriotism. The Government should realize that preservation and maintenance of these mountain-forts would be a very good medium for influencing present directionless young generation for creating patriotism in them, since it has totally succumbed to western culture and materialism.
Temples are places of pilgrimage of Hindus; similarly, mountain-forts are national pilgrimage places ! Not only patrons of forts but all pro-Hindu organizations, devout Hindus and patriotic citizens should create awareness amongst all citizens of this country; kindling flame of patriotism so that every mountain-fort would become a symbol of honour of this nation.
– H. H. Shri. Sandip Alash (7.9.2019)
