Considering its iconography, the temple is likely to have been constructed around the 13th-15th century, when the Eastern Ganga Dynasty ruled the region. The researchers of Indian National Trust for Art & Cultural Heritage (INTACH) in Odisha discovered the archaeological remains of a 13th-15th century temple near a railway station in the state’s Jajpur district. Considering its iconography, the temple is likely to have been constructed around the 13th-15th century, when the Eastern Ganga Dynasty ruled the region, INTACH Odisha unit project co-ordinator Anil Dhir said. “In all our travels and discoveries, we had never come across such a large ruined complex with a multitude of remnants of a very early era temple. The ruins are suggestive of a large temple complex that had crumbled down due to unknown reasons. However, the base of the temple was still clearly visible. A large number of huge blocks, intricately carved stone panels, and few religious sculptures were found scattered all around the site. A Kalasha of a temple was found at the dug-up site near the railway station,” said Dhir. Deepak Nayak, a heritage enthusiast, said Jajpur region was known as ‘Guheswarapataka’ and ruled by powerful dynasties like the Bhaumakaras, Somavamsis, Gangas and Suryavamsis. “Art and architecture touched the pinnacle of finesse during the rule of these dynasties. Many beautiful temples of the Kalingan order were built during the glorious reigns of the kings,” said Nayak. Dhir said the presence of many small forts in the vicinity is indicative of a large habitation in the early days. “In the last five years, many archaeological remains from eastern Ganga’s era have been discovered in the nearby forts of Amaravati, Teligada and Darpanagada. The nearby villages of Teligada and Dharmasala had earlier yielded the Rathayatra stone panel and a magnificent Krishna-Vishnu image. These are now kept at the Odisha State Museum,” he said. The temple ruins near the Dhanamandal railway station, were first noticed by Nrupati Nihar Siala, a local heritage enthusiast. The ruins lay scattered in an area of four acres at the base of a small hillock, a little away from the siding. They had come to light after the thick undergrowth was recently cleared for the expansion of the railway siding. The workers had wanted to set up their camp there and had cleared the area by cutting the bushes. When they saw the temple remnants, they set up their camp on the other side of the railway line.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/archaeological-remains-of-13th-15th-century-temple-discovered-in-odisha-intach-101678770045799.html, March 14, 2023

A 'Linga Mudra' stone with inscriptions of the Sun, Moon, a Shivalinga and a Nandi has ben found in Udupi district of Karnataka, officials said on Monday. A 'Linga Mudra' stone with inscriptions of the Sun, Moon, a Shivalinga and a Nandi has ben found in Udupi district of Karnataka, officials said on Monday. The stone, estimated to be around 400-years-old, was found while levelling work of the proposed Ashoka Park in Basrur gram panchayat of Kundapur taluk was going on with the help of local people. The matter was brought to the notice of a historian. The message on the stone appears to suggest that the empire of the ruling king lives till the Sun and Moon are intact, history researcher Prof T Murugeshi said in a statement. He said it was common for Shaivites to venerate Lord Shiva, Vaishnavites to Lord Vishnu and Jains to the Thirthankaras. Shaivites used to install Linga Mudra stones on their land borders while Vaishnavas used to put Vamanamudra stones and Jains used Mukkode stones. It was their way of identifying the borders of their land. In accordance to this, the Linga Mudra stones found at Basrur were put to identify the borders, he said. "The cooperation and support of the public is required to preserve the stone inscriptions, war memorials and border stones of history. The record should be mentioned in the history of our land," Murugeshi said.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/bengaluru-news/400yearold-linga-mudra-stone-found-in-udupi-101678791894032.html, March 14, 2023

A team from the Indian National Trust For Art & Cultural Heritage (INTACH) has discovered the base of an ancient temple and other archaeological remains at Purushottampur Sasana village in the Badachana block of the Jajpur district. The temple ruins, near the Dhanamandal Railway Station, was first noticed by Nrupati Nihar Siala, a local heritage enthusiast, who informed the INTACH Cuttack Chapter. The ruins lay scattered in an area of four acres at the base of a small hillock, a little away from the railway siding. The three-member INTACH team, comprising Anil Dhir, Biswajit Mohanty, and Deepak Kumar Nayak explored the spot and the vicinity along with Bikram Kumar Nayak and Suman Prakash Swain. According to Deepak Kumar Nayak, the ruins are suggestive of a large temple complex that had crumbled down due to unknown reasons. However, the base of the temple is still clearly visible. A large number of huge stone blocks, intricately carved stone panels, and few religious sculptures are found scattered all around the site. The most notable stone panels are the depictions of war processions, musical bands, royal processions, palanquins, elephants etc. A Kalasa of a temple was found at the dug-up site of the railway station. Considering this iconography, he assigns the construction period to be around the 13th/14th Century C.E, the period when the Eastern Ganga Dynasty held sway over the region. Dr. Biswajit Mohanty is of the opinion that the Jajpur region was known as ‘Guheswarapataka’ in ancient times. The region was ruled by powerful dynasties like the Bhaumakaras, Somavamsis, Gangas and Suryavamsis. Art and architecture touched the pinnacle of finesse during the rule of these dynasties. Many beautiful temples of the Kalingan order were built during the glorious reigns of the Kings. Many of these came under the onslaught of attacks by the iconoclastic marauders which included Firoz Shah Tughlaq, Kalapahada and Aurangzeb. The region of Jajpur witnessed a cultural genocide with the destruction of many temples and mutts. This temple at Purushottampur too must have been destroyed during any such attacks. Many artifacts were also found in the excavated area of the ongoing railway work near the station. While most of the square blocks have been removed by the villagers for construction, there are nearly a thousand odd pieces scattered lying all over the complex. The team a saw many that have been overrun by the dense undergrowth bushes and vegetation. The temple base, till the Pista level, is practically intact, with very large stone blocks. According to Anil Dhir, Project Co-ordinator of INTACH, the presence of many small forts in the vicinity are indicative of a large habitation in the early days. Many archaeological remains from Eastern Ganga’s era have been discovered in the nearby forts of Amaravati, Teligada and Darpanagada. Earlier, the nearby villages of Teligada and Dharmasala had yielded the Rathayatra stone panel and a magnificent Krishna-Vishnu image which have been kept at the Odisha State Museum. The archaeological remains and antiquities noticed at this spot are very similar in nature to these. Dhir insists that a proper archaeological excavation of the site should be undertaken by experts from the State Archaeology Department or the ASI. While most of the embellished stone blocks and images of the ruined temples have been taken away, the few that remain should be removed and kept at the State Museum. The entire 4-acre complex should be secured by a wall or barbed wire fencing and the place declared as a protected monument. Intach will prepare a preliminary report and submit it to the authorities, with a request to conduct a proper survey of the site and the nearby areas.

https://orissadiary.com/early-period-remains-of-temple-discovered-by-intach-team-near-chandikhole/, March 13, 2023

To spread awareness about millets, a millet museum and interpretation centre will come up here. The Cuttack district administration has identified 5,000 square feet land for it and the buildings will be ready by October-end. "Millets have been proven to be good for health but very few people know about it. It is only popular in tribal districts. So we decided to set up the museum, ' said collector Bhabani Shankar Chayani. "Intach will be designing the project. Specific galleries will showcase the historical and nutritional value of millets both through audio and visual modes," he added. Seven varieties of millets are available in Odisha. "As all kinds of millets will be on display, people will be able to see and differentiate among them at the museum," he said. The museum will be managed and maintained by women SHGs, who will also be providing information to the visitors. The information would include method of production.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/cuttack/millet-museum-to-come-up-in-cuttack/articleshow/98579309.cms, March 12, 2023

For centuries, Stonehenge, a famous prehistoric monument on Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, England, evoked a sense of wonder among historians, archaeologists and travellers alike. Tens of thousands flock to the area to witness its colossal beauty, often not realising such structures exist in various other parts of the world. Noted historian MG Sasibhooshan drew the example of Stonehenge to explain the sad state of megalithic monuments in Kerala by comparing it with efforts taken by foreign governments to conserve monuments. "History needs to be taught beyond the scope of textbooks. The students must have opportunities to visit historical monuments and sites in the state. Sometimes, we cannot conserve every monument. For instance, we may have to remove a Kudakallu (Umbrella stone) structure if it obstructs road development. When we do so, the concerned authorities should shift such historical monuments to a museum, research centre or school. Today, there are scientific and technological provisions to do so. Unfortunately, no such efforts are being taken to conserve such sites," he said. Meanwhile, many historians cited the lack of coordination between the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the Kerala State Archaeology Department for monuments lying neglected and unprotected in Kerala. Dr Rajesh KP, Assistant Professor of NSS College Manjeri, who extensively studied Monolith structures in Malabar regions, cited the need for the state government to bring new policies to protect megalithic sites in the state. "Apart from documenting, excavating, and gathering artefacts from megalithic sites, the ASI and State Archaeology Department do not have a policy or laws to preserve megalithic sites unless it receives the tag of a protected site. Most megalithic sites are accidentally discovered by locals or property owners. Once notified, the officials from the state archaeological department attend the site and will proceed with resurvey procedures, collect artefacts, and document their findings. Apart from it, state archaeology does not have provisions to protect the sites. The existing laws of ASI and the state archaeology department only provide conservation and legal validity to monuments termed as 'protected sites'," said Dr Rajesh KP, Assistant Professor of NSS College Manjeri, who extensively studied Monolithic structures in Malabar regions. He suggested that ASI and state archaeology departments should combine to launch a 'megalithic heritage mapping' project to identify and document sites of importance. Currently, the preservation and environmental development of designated protected monuments are undertaken by the Archaeological Survey of India as per archaeological norms. In Kerala, for instance, 'Kudakkallu Parambu', a burial site in Chermanangad of Thrissur District, and Ariyannur Umbrellas, located nearby in Ariyannur, are sites that fall under the protected monument category of ASI. Noted Malayalam writer Kovilan, who lived in close proximity to Kudakallu sites in Ariyannur, once remarked that he received an injunction notice from ASI when he tried to renovate his house. However, such is not the case for other 'unprotected' megalithic sites in the state. As per the "The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1958", ancient and historical monuments, sculpture carvings and other objects, archaeological sites and remains are protected and preserved. However, the law clearly stipulates the conservation of sites designated as "protected and preserved." In fact, three fourth of sites in the country lie outside the purview of the 'protected' tag. As a result, neither the concerned law enforcement authorities nor archaeological departments can take action against people destroying or vandalising ancient monuments. Noted archaeologist and former Regional Director of ASI KK Muhammed remarked that the time has come for the government to adopt a policy to end the collapse of our ancient monuments. The Muniyaras (dolmens) of Marayoor, in Idukki, is a notable example of how bureaucratic oversight and government red tape could effortlessly destroy ancient monuments. Marayoor, located 40 km from Munnar, is an alluring spot for anthropologists and archaeologists from all over the world due to the presence of the largest cluster of dolmenoid cists belonging to the Megalithic age. Muniyaras, estimated to be 5000 years old, are buria lchambers made of four stones placed on the edges and covered by a fifth one on the top called the capstone. "Post-independence, the maximum number of megalithic structures are discovered in Marayoor. I used to see many structures in Marayoor during my visits to the place while working in the archaeological department. Unfortunately, many are now lost owing to negligence and lack of conservation," MG Sasibhooshan said. The name Muniyaras came from the idea that it was a place where sages used to meditate, stay or be buried. Meanwhile, many conservators argue that rampant tourist activities in the area have drastically affected the Muniyaras. Despite measures taken by the state archaeological department and local self-government administrations, many of these structures remain in wretched conditions. A few years back, two watchers were assigned to protect dolmens by the archaeology department in Murugan Hill, a prominent site in Marayoor. Today the guards have long gone, and the monuments here await slow and painful death due to complete ignorance. In 2010, Marayoor Grama Panchayat launched an effort to protect 75 per cent of the Muniyaras in Murugan Hill by constructing fences. However, these fences had been long gone, and it has become a regular sight of tourists trespassing and climbing on top of these structures. Although there have been announcements of a megalithic park by the panchayat and a tribal museum by Idukki MP, nothing has come up yet. Meanwhile, the Muniyaras remain in awful condition, with the soil beneath these structures fastly eroding. "It is an unusual site that needs to be protected. However, the archaeological department hasn't taken any measures to conserve them. To an extent, the government has not taken any action to protect the site. Today, tourists flock to the area in large numbers, often in jeeps that transport them to the top of Murugan hill. These adventure tourism activities pose a danger to dolmens here," said Benny Kurian, who studied extensively about Megalithic monuments in the Idukki district and conducted a GPS mapping survey of dolmens for Marayoor panchayat in 2010. Earlier, experts had suggested bringing in public participation to conserve Muniyaras in the line of projects in Chinnar to save Red ochre paintings and Edakkal caves in Wayanad. However, the idea was dropped after the Archaeology department opposed the move. Meanwhile, historians and archaeologists have raised concerns over the impact of rapid urbanisation in Kerala, leading to the destruction of these structures. Due to rapid urbanisation, people tend to remove historic structures unearthed in these properties during construction works. The lack of awareness among the public and limited information available regarding the importance of these sites have placed historians and archaeologists in a race against the clock to save them. The northern districts of Kerala remain rich haven of megalithic burial sites. Megaliths found in northern parts of Kerala include rock-cut tombs, umbrella stones, cist burial, dolmens, stone circles, urns, menhir, etc. Despite a number of recent discoveries, no efforts were taken by authorities to record the exact geo coordinates and other necessary details of the nature of discovered sites. Nandakumar Koroth, a history teacher at Nehru Arts and Science College, who had taken part in the conservation of several megalithic structures in the Kasaragod district, cited the example of a neolithic granite axe --more than 3000 years old-- which was left unattended at a village office in Kasaragod for two years before archaeology department shifted it to the Pazhassi Raja Archaeological Museum in Kozhikode. It was supposedly the largest axe from the time period to be discovered in Kerala. "Until 2014, we were able to identify only around 30 megalithic burial sites in Kasaragod. However, this has now crossed 100. The antiquarian sensibility and increased awareness among the public have proven to be an effective way to conserve Kudakallu and other megalithic structures here," he said. However, people tend to destroy such structures due to the popular misconception that government will seize their property. Lack of proper awareness to educate the public often hinders archaeologists and historians from saving such structures in Kerala. Interestingly, ceremonial light is lit daily inside a burial site in Bengalam, Kasaragod, based on a local belief that a sage once lived there. In another location, a rock-cut chamber is called 'Pandava Guha' due to local belief that the Pandava brothers, the central characters of the Hindu epic Mahabharata, once lived there. Conservations at Panchayat level Due to a lacklustre approach from the concerned authorities, many of these landmark structures are quickly disappearing, with exposure to weather and other natural phenomena. However, the more worrying aspect is the destruction of these monuments owing to human activities. Noted archaeologist and Padmashree awardee KK Muhammed had voiced similar concerns over how megalithic sites were handled by the state and central governments. He remarked that Kudakallu and Thoppikallu sites in Kerala are unique burial structures not found anywhere else. "The government and panchayats in the state should come forward for its conservation. The state archaeology departments should issue circulars to acquire such megalithic sites from respective panchayats and launch projects to conserve them. It is up to panchayats to declare such areas as protected sites. With this, we could protect such megalithic structures from human encroachment," he said.

https://english.mathrubhumi.com/features/specials/kerala-s-megalithic-past-experts-call-for-ways-to-save-historic-monuments-1.8381633, March 11, 2023

Raipur (Chhattisgarh) [India], March 11 (ANI): Ancient idol of Lord Buddha belonging from the 'Panduvanshi' period and other statues of archaeological importance were recovered on Friday from village Sondra on Raipur-Bilaspur road during construction of a house. The statues were recovered during the construction of Dilendra Banchor’s house at village Sondra. After learning about the recoveries of ancient idols, a team of archaeological department reached to the spot for undertaking inspection of the area following an instruction of Director of Archaeology, Archive and Museum Department Vivek Acharya. According to the officials of the archaeological department, “The village is located around 16 kilometers from Raipur-Bilaspur road and 2 km from Sankra area in Raipur. While undertaking digging work for the development of columns for construction of house, the idol of lord Buddha was recovered.” The presence of ’tilak’ mark on the forehead of a recovered stone statue of Buddha, makes it more unique and indicates that it is more likely to be the meditative Buddha, officials said. The recovered idol of lord Buddha is incomplete and the upper part of the idol was developed with three-tier technique, said the officer. “The idols of lord Buddha prepared with this technique are available in Chhattisgarh’s Sirpur and Rajim as well as Bodhgaya of Bihar,” he added. While conducting inspection at the site, the information related to the presence of other idols in different forms was gathered, the officer said, The officer further stated, the antiquities recovered from the site seem to be of Panduvanshi period (6th to 9th century AD). (ANI) This report is auto-generated from ANI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.

https://theprint.in/india/ancient-idol-of-lord-buddha-recovered-from-chhattisgarhs-sondra/1434875/, March 11, 2023

The International Women’s Day was celebrated at the Rojavanam Paramedical College on March 8. The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) Nagercoil chapter convenor Anitha Natarajan spoke about the need for more awareness among women. The struggles faced by women in workplace and their challenges were discussed. The students of the Fine Arts Club of the college organised an event and a performance. Dr. Arunachalam was the guest of honour and Dr. Arul Kannan proposed the vote of thanks.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/womens-day-celebrated/article66600400.ece, March 6, 2023

Have you peeked out of the first floor of the Chennai Egmore Railway Station? This nearly 115 year-old building stores bits of history in its walls. With a massive redevelopment of the station planned over next three years ending in 2025 be a tourist before the facade changes. With crowds flitting in to catch their trains, loud advertisements and pigeons making every nook their home, the Egmore Railway Station makes for a compelling place to visit, especially during the noon lull.

The familiar red and white walls of the Egmore Railway Station deserve more attention than the glances they get from harried passengers. Especially now, since the station, inaugurated on June 11, 1908, is at the cusp of change. The Union Government is planning a redevelopment project under the Gati Shakti programme at a cost of ₹734.91 crore. In 36 months, the station will wear the look of an airport, according to officials from the Southern Railways. While the original heritage structure will be retained, it will be part of a larger station complex with separate arrival and departure terminals.

The revamp promises better accessibility– lifts and escalators, a new food plaza, and a plusher waiting area. Before the changes come by and the 115-year-old building is revitalised, which will inevitably alter its current charm, explore its graceful spaces to rediscover gems like their British-era clock and a mechanical weighing machine. Here’s another pro tip: the first floor offers a stunning view of the city.

Hidden gem

To reach the first floor, passengers climb a flight of wooden stairs, lined with photographs of the station from as early as 1908. This floor houses a large air conditioned and non-air conditioned dormitory, a matron room and the Deputy Superintendent’s (Government Railway Police) office. Look out for their century-old weighing scale manufactured in 1907 by W&T Avery, Birmingham. The view of the dome from the Chennai Egmore Railway Station. | Photo Credit: Jothi Ramalingam B Two balconies that protrude from the top floor provide clear views of majestic top domes, intricately embellished window sills and, in the distance, the familiar chaos of Gandhi Irwin road. Take a walk down platform four to see an antique clock by J Smith and Sons from Derby, England. (Though it is, unfortunately, currently wrapped in a black polythene cover). From here you can take a walk over the oldest surviving foot overbridge of the Southern Railways, which stretches across platform four.

Architect Sujatha Shankar of Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) calls the railway station one of the finest buildings in Chennai, stating that the structure is a fine example of the Indo-Saracenic style. “The station, designed by Henry Irwin with architect EC Bird, is an important landmark in Madras’ architectural journey. It is an indicator of a time when the railways arrived,” she says. Sujatha adds that she distinctly remembers cars being allowed onto the platform of the station. “It was the only place where such a sight could be seen,” she says.
Change
The redevelopment of the Egmore railway station proposes a ‘world-class makeover with futuristic infrastructure’ since the station handles a footfall of over 26,400 during peak hour according to the Railway Department’s press release. Besides the separate arrival and departure concourses, there will be two multi-level car parking facilities and better utilities including drinking water stations and restrooms. Chennai Divisional Railway Manager, Ganesh, says that portions of the original heritage building constructed in 1908 were further extended some time in the 1970s.

“Nobody can really tell the difference though because the redevelopment works happened keeping in mind the structure of the original building. The new building will however showcase a contrast while keeping the same colour scheme. We want to show the distinction between the old and the new,” he says. The charm of the heritage structure will be juxtaposed against the modern design of the new building, he adds. Historian V Sriram says that it is important to maintain the aesthetics of the space without compromising on development. “From the artists’ view, it looks like the heritage building has been relegated to a corner but this is understandable since modern infrastructure will require a lot more utilisation of space. But whatever they do, they should highlight the heritage and not dwarf it. This has been done effectively in Chennai Central station. I hope they do the same here too,” he says. Ganesh adds that they plan to showcase the history of the station with pictures and exhibits. For now though, soak in the sights and distinctive smells at this station where, for more than a century, time has stood still.

https://www.thehindu.com/society/history-and-culture/play-tourist-at-egmore-railway-station-currently-at-the-cusp-of-change/article66591646.ece, March 7, 2023

The young leader who served as a guide on the trip, Wahaj, led some 30 odd people to lesser known heritage sites in the city. What is the greatest challenge faced by young people in today’s world? To locate that part of your being that finds solace in traditional methods of exploration, especially amidst the rise of innovations like ChatGPT and AI. It is only natural that a 21-year-old explorer, while leading a group of somewhat older Hyderabadis on a heritage walk, points at an intricate geometric pattern on a mediaeval-era monument and says that they look like QR codes.

CE went on a tour to Bidar, a historic city, located in the northern part of Karnataka and about 142.6 km away from Hyderabad, known for its rich and diverse cultural heritage dating back to centuries. The tour was organised by The Deccan Archives, a group of college students, all in their early twenties, filled with immaculate passion for exploring new places, and immense strength and indomitable will to preserve their heritage. The young leader who served as a guide on the trip, Wahaj, led some 30-odd people to lesser-known heritage sites in the city.

Popular for the mediaeval-era Bidar fort and much widely, for Bidriware metal handicraft, the city also houses other monuments with magnificent architecture. The trip began at 6 am on a Sunday, and it was delightful to see so many people foregoing their weekend siestas to learn about history. In about 3 hours, we were at the tomb of a Sufi saint named Khalil-Ullah Kirmani. The structure is known as Chaukhandi, built on the outskirts of Ashtur town.

In 1431, Ahmed Shah Wali Bahmani, the 9th Bahmani Sultan who shifted his capital from Gulbarga to Bidar in 1422, invited Khalil-Ullah Kirmani to guide him in his rule after the death of Sufi saint Sayyid Shah Muhammad Al Hussaini. The saint, passionate for literature, brought people closer to education. Chaukhandi also served as a waystation for travellers, who would stop at the site to rest and pray. The group then moved to the Bahmani tombs at Ashtur. Located near Bidar Fort, the Bahmani tombs are the final resting place of the rulers of the Bahmani Sultanate.

The most noticeable of all the seven tombs is that of Ahmad Shah Al Wali. One cannot fail to admire the intricate black-stone carvings and brightly coloured, glazed ceramic tiles, the remnants of which can be noticed on the dome and above the entrance of the structure. The tombs, which stand as witnesses to the grandeur of a bygone era and its gradual decline, are unfortunately not well known among tourists. However, some visitors have left their marks on the walls of these ancient monuments, inscribing the names of their loved ones and enemies on these beautiful structures, as if registering their names in history for onlookers to see.

Regretting the recklessness of the visitors, the group moves forward to the Madrasa of Mahmud Gawan, a splendid educational complex, which in its prime, was an indomitable structure but now houses only the vestiges of that grandeur. It was built by Mahmud Gawan, the minister of Muhammad Shah III in 1472 and functioned like a residential university. The complex houses a conventional quadrangular hall with chambers on the sides. The facade is adorned by multi-coloured tiles, “which from afar, looks like an animated screen,” described Pallavi, a fellow traveller in the group, evidently a millennial. Anuradha Reddy, co-convener of INTACH Telangana and Hyderabad joined the group as well. She connected the otherwise fragmented dots of history that we had been tracing since morning.

“The division we see today between different states like Telangana and Karnataka did not exist in the past. The Deccan region is home to wonderful forts, palaces, and is rich in Sufi culture. We were at Gulbarga last week. The Karnataka government has recognised the region, now renamed as Kalyana Karnataka, since Kalyani was an ancient kingdom in this area. It was called Basava Kalyana. This area is home to the architectural history that we now see in Golconda and in other areas within Hyderabad city today,” she said. She explained how Bidar constitutes an essential part of Deccan history and how it is connected to Hyderabad. “It is a pleasure to be here because Gulbarga district used to be part of Hyderabad state.

My father’s first posting in Hyderabad civil service was in a place called Shorapur, (not Shohlapur) a place where the first anti-British movement was started by a young ruler called Venkatappa Nayak. He was raised by captain Meadows Taylor who documented much of megalithic monuments and history in the region. We are also indebted to Dr. Ghulami Yazdani, who was the first director of the Hyderabad archeological department. It is a shared history which could not have been possible without Dr Ghulami Yazdani’s documentation work. Much is owed to the seventh Nizam, Mir Osman Ali Khan as well, who, in 1914, recognized that the rich history and heritage of the region needed to be preserved. Dr Ghulami Yazdani took up the gigantic task of preserving the Ajanta and Ellora caves. Now in Maharashtra, the caves are of value to us as some of the institutional plannings that you see in Arts College at Osmania University in Hyderabad city, are richly endowed with architecture that is derived from these caves. These Jain-Buddhist monuments are representative of a shared history.

This region also inherited Bidari work, artefacts made of dark metal embedded with silver. So we are importing craft, culture and architecture from other regions that have come to us. We share it, and it becomes our own,” she said. Moving forward, the group went to see the Naubad Karez, remnants of mediaeval-era aqueducts, an ancient underground water management system used to provide a reliable supply of water to arid and semi-arid regions. It was followed by admiring the formidable Bidar fort with its amazing acoustics and a number of palaces that serve as examples of perfect melange of Indian and Islamic architectural designs. The tour ended with some shopping of a variety of decorative and functional Bidriware objects at Chaubara. The craft has also been recognised with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. With that, the group headed back home to Hyderabad, a city that is ever-eager to tell odd and peculiar, nevertheless charming tales. The only question it seeks an answer to is, “who’s listening?”

https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/hyderabad/2023/mar/08/unravel-hyderabads-bidar-mystery-2554059.html, March 8, 2023

National Museum Instituteof History of Art, Conservation and Museology, a Deemed to be University under Ministry of Culture, Govt. of India, with campus at A-19, Institutional Area, Sector - 62, Noida, Uttar Pradesh – 201309, has invited applications for admission to its Ph.D Programs for 2022-23.

Ph.D Programs and eligibility for admission are as follows:

History of Art: Master’s Degree with minimum 55% marks in M.A. History of Art / History / Archaeology / Anthropology / Aesthetics or its equivalent from a recognized University / Institute. Conservation: Master’s Degree with minimum 55% marks in M.A Conservation or Master Degree in Chemistry / Physics / Life Sciences / Museology / Architecture or its equivalent from a recognized University / Institute. Museology: Master’s Degree with minimum 55% marks in Museology or Master Degree in History / Ancient Indian History and Archaeology or its equivalent from a recognized University / Institute. Eligibility Criteria for in Service Personnel:

In service personnel working with Central Government/ State Government/ Autonomous organization / Universities funded by Central or State Government / NGOs (in that order) with at least 5 years’ regular service, having the above required qualification, will also be eligible to apply. Application form: The detailed Notification along with the application form is available at http://nmi.gov.in/opportunitiescareer.htm Those interested in applying in more than one course need to send separate application along with testimonials for each course.

The filled application form along with self attested copies of testimonials (age proof and educational qualifications) should reach National Museum Instituteof History of Art, Conservation & Museology (Deemed to be University) Campus: A-19, Institutional Area, Sector - 62, Noida, Uttar Pradesh – 201309 latest by 5 pm on 24.3.2023. No Fee is payable at the time of submission of the application forms. The list of shortlisted candidates and the date of written examination and Personal interaction will be notified on the website separately.

https://english.mathrubhumi.com/education/admissions/research-admission-at-national-museum-institute-noida-apply-by-march-24-1.8370296, March 9, 2023

Banaras Hindu University (BHU) researchers claimed to have found north India’s first stone stupa, built during the reign of great Maurya emperor Ashoka, in Kothi hill of Firozpur village of Chandauli district. Ashoka ruled from c. 268 to c. 232 BCE. Researchers of BHU’s department of Ancient Indian History, Culture and Archaeology also claimed that a huge mound of archaeological importance, with statues of Buddha and Bodhisattva, has been found in Bhikhampur village, and Palaeolithic tools and painted rock shelters have been found in Daudpur village of the district. These archaeological sites have come to light in the survey being conducted by the research scholars under the supervision of Prof. Mahesh Prasad Ahirwar of the department. “The discovery of a new stone stupa in north India is very important from the historical and archaeological point of view because all the stupas that have come to light in north India so far are made of bricks or clay. This discovery will open new doors for historical and archaeological research," said Prof. Ahirwar.

According to him, the history of Chandauli district of Uttar Pradesh has been very glorious. "This district has been the centre of many cultural activities — from prehistoric times to the present time," he added. Many new archaeological sites are coming to light in the survey being conducted by a research scholar, Paramdeep Patel. Under the supervision of Prof. Ahirwar, he is working on his research on ‘Cultural and archaeological study of Chandauli district with special reference to Chandraprabha river valley’. He surveyed Ferozepur, Bhikhampur and Daudpur villages of Chakia Tehsil of Chandauli district.

Many archaeological sites have come to light from the point of view of archaeological importance. “Among these, the stone stupa located in the Kothi hill of Firozpur village is the most important. Along with this, a large number of Palaeolithic and Mesolithic tools, megalithic tombs and painted rock shelters have been found from the area, whose estimated chronology is believed to be from 5,000 years to 50,000 years ago, ” claimed Prof. Ahirwar, adding, “The stupa found on the Kothi hill of Ferozepur is the first stone stupa in north India. It is a unique stupa built during the time of the great Maurya Emperor Ashoka. Such stone stupas are found in abundance in Sanchi and its surrounding areas, which are world famous for their construction style and artistic beauty".

He said, “During the survey, prehistoric rock shelters have also been found in the hill located in Bhikhampur village. Different types of pictures made by the primitive man in red colour and Magadha type engraved special signs have been found in different parts of the whole hill. These types of marks are often seen in the struck coins of Magadha style. The Buddha statue from a natural cave in the hill and the Bodhisattva statue in the modern temple on top of the hill reflect the long history of the region. These idols seem to be of Kushan period as per the idol characteristics.” “The findings show the continuous flow of civilization and culture in Chandauli district — from prehistoric to historical era, ” said Prof. Ahirwar. Other research scholars Ravi Shankar Singh Patel and Ketan Patel were also involved in the survey. Besides, Prof. Ahirwar, an assistant professor, Vinay Kumar also visited the ancient sites for the purpose of certification of archaeological evidence obtained from the sites and confirmed their historical and archaeological importance.

https://english.mathrubhumi.com/education/admissions/research-admission-at-national-museum-institute-noida-apply-by-march-24-1.8370296, March 10, 2023

‘Story behind Storey: Luminaries of Bengal’, penned by architect Indrani Sarkar & published by Intach tells story of legendary personalities. A book on 100 Bengal luminaries, mostly from Kolkata, and the present condition of the houses they lived in was launched at Aurobindo Bhaban, the well-preserved house on Shakespeare Sarani where Sri Aurobindo was born. The book titled Story behind Storey: Luminaries of Bengal — written by architect Indrani Sarkar and published by Intach — tells the story of these personalities, and their lives and contributions. It also has an inventory of the properties they lived in, along with their locations.

The list includes 19th-century reformists like Rammohun Roy and Keshab Chandra Sen, litterateurs Michael Madhusudan Dutt and Tarashankar Bandopadhyay, medical practitioners Bidhan Chandra Roy and Kadambini Ganguly, builders, philanthropists, entrepreneurs, politicians and economist Abhijit Vinayak Banerjee. The book highlights the sad state of Raja Subodh Chandra Mallick’s mansion at 12 Subodh Mallick Square, which was donated to Calcutta University, and the fact that folklorist Gurusaday Dutta’s house at 19 Gurusaday Road has been demolished. The fate of his collection at Gurusaday Museum still hangs in the balance.

The fate of UN Brahmachari’s house, who gave us the antidote to kala-azar, remains uncertain as a snazzy high-rise has come up right next to it on the same plot. The house in Howrah’s Batore where RG Kar, after who the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital is named, lived has been abandoned. The house of another medical practitioner, Nilratan Sircar, on MG Road is now home to the Jalan Trust and a number of tenants. Lighting expert Tapas Sen’s house in Naktala is in a dilapidated state, said Sarkar.

“Perhaps, all these structures will disappear with time but this book with its documentation will remain,” said the author, who believes “if there is a will to save all this built heritage, there are a lot of ways like CSR funds and public-private initiatives”. Launching the book, West Bengal Heritage Commission chairman Alapan Bandyopadhyay said: “Unfortunately, the economic ecosystem in which the luminaries of early 19th century Bengal were born and grew up no longer exists. There is a financial bankruptcy that is a big hindrance to preserving such structures."

https://www.telegraphindia.com/my-kolkata/news/book-on-past-and-present-of-homes-of-bengal-stalwarts/cid/1921714, March 20, 2023

A one-day workshop was organised by Indian Trust for Art Culture and Heritage (INTACH) in collaboration with Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU) to create awareness among youth. The workshop aimed at training volunteers for awareness, conservation and protection of tangible and intangible heritage. The workshop was inaugurated by Prof VK Bhat, Dean Faculty of Humanities and Chief Guest. Other attendees included Purnima Dutt, Principal Director of INTACH; SM Sahni, Convenor of Jammu Chapter of INTACH; Nagendra Singh Jamwal, Registrar SMVDU; and Arvind Kotwal, Coordinator Heritage Tourism INTACH.

In her keynote address, Purnima Dutt gave an overview on Indian culture and heritage. She emphasised the need to preserve cultural heritage through young heritage volunteers. Prof VK Bhat stressed on involving students in heritage awareness and thanked INTACH for collaborating with SMVDU. Arvind Kotwal elaborated on the built heritage of Jammu while Kripal Singh spoke about rural art. Dr Deepika Slathia delivered a lecture on natural heritage while Dr Sudhir Singh spoke about intangible heritage.

Abhishek Das from Heritage Education & Communication Service discussed volunteerism. Dr Lalit Gupta stressed the need for involving youth in spreading awareness about heritage. He mentioned that a modern museum is needed in Jammu region to display artifacts, handlooms, crafts and rare paintings. The proceedings were conducted by Dr Rakesh Kumar and Dr Kamni Pathania.

https://indiaeducationdiary.in/intach-organises-heritage-volunteer-training-workshop/, March 21, 2023

As per the latest development, Odisha’s Indian Natural Trust for Art & Cultural Heritage (INTACH) has discovered the archaeological remains of a medieval era temple, near a railway station at Purushottampur Sasana village in Badachana block of the Jajpur district. If reports are to go by, the temple ruins lay scattered at the base of a small hillock in an area of four acres, and is little bit away from the railway siding.

On checking the ruins, it’s believed that they are of a large temple complex that had crumbled down with the passage of time. If reports are to go by, the base of the temple is still clearly visible, and there are also a large number of huge stone blocks, few religious sculptures, intricately carved stone panels, found scattered all across the site.

The most notable stone panels depict war processions, royal processions, musical bands, elephants, and palanquins. Going by the iconography, it’s believed that the temple dates back to 13th or 14th Century CE. Further, the presence of numerous small forts in the vicinity indicates that there must have been a large habitation in the early days. As per the records, many archaeological remains have also been discovered in the nearby forts of Teligada, Amaravati, and Darpanagada.

Earlier, in the nearby villages of Teligada and Dharamshala, the Rathayatra stone panel and a magnificent Krishna-Vishnu image was discovered, which has now been placed at the Odisha State Museum. It’s interesting to note that the archaeological remains and antiquities found at the recent site are quite similar in nature to these. Revealing more about the recent discovery, the INTACH authorities added that the entire 4-acre complex should be secured by barbed wire or a wall, and the place is declared as a protected monument.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/travel/travel-news/archaeological-remains-of-13th-15th-century-medieval-temple-discovered-in-odisha/articleshow/98749577.cms, March 22, 2023

A programme Shaher-e-yaar based on the tales of Awadh was organized by Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) on Sunday. Several tales associated with the city were shared by Dastango Himanshu Bajpai. It was followed by a story narration by storyteller Rupali Chandra. Besides, a panel discussion including historian Roshan Taqui, poet Chandrashekhar Varma, , Shobha Bajpai, was organized. The discussion was moderated by convener INTACH Vipul Varshney.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/awadh-tales-enthral-city-audience/articleshow/98791514.cms?from=mdr, March 23, 2023

The poetry session began with the recitation of a few ghazals in Tulu and Kannada by Muhammad Baddoor while Deevith S.K. Peradi, Mahesh Nayak and Raghu Idkidu read poems in Kannada. Jayalakshmi R. Shetty and Lathish Paldane read out Tulu poems Mangaluru Chapter of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) and Art Kanara Trust organised “Kare Barita Kabitelu,” a multilingual poetry session to coincide with World Poetry Day (March 21), on Saturday, March 25 here.

The poetry session began with the recitation of a few ghazals in Tulu and Kannada by Muhammad Baddoor while Deevith S.K. Peradi, Mahesh Nayak and Raghu Idkidu read poems in Kannada. Jayalakshmi R. Shetty and Lathish Paldane read out Tulu poems. Rajendra Kedige recited in both Kannada and Tulu. Praveen Ammembala recited poems in Tamil. Sarah Varghese read a small poetic story in English.

Nemiraj Shetty presented some micro stories in English. Students of the Gandhian Centre for Philosophical Arts and Sciences, MAHE, Manipal, made an impromptu recitation of poems. The programme concluded with an interactive session with the dignitaries. Saigeetha Hegde, Head of the Department of Humanities at Nitte Deemed University, coordinated the event. She also recited poems in Kannada and Tulu. The event was organised to give expression to the poetic voices of the coastal region and encourage literary pursuits among the younger generation.

It was held in the presence of Varadesh Hiregange, Director of the Gandhian Centre for Philosophical Arts and Sciences, Manipal; Nagesh Kallur, Publisher, Akrithi Ashaya Publications, Mangaluru; and Jyothi Chelairu, President, Karavali Lekhakiyara Vachakiyara Sangha, Mangaluru. INTACH Mangaluru convener Subhas Chandra Basu gave an introductory note. Ms. Chelairu remembered Savitribai Phule, Akka Mahadevi, Poet Rumi and said that the maturity of experience improves the quality of poetry. Mr. Nagesh analysed poetry. “When we heat lime, it becomes colourful.

Similarly, life experiences fill us with richness,” he said, adding that the current circumstances are empowering for poetry to flourish. Mr. Hiregange observed that the poems written by romantic poet Wordsworth are a spontaneous outpouring of powerful emotions.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Mangalore/intach-and-art-kanara-trust-hold-multilingual-poetry-session-in-mangaluru/article66667782.ece, March 24, 2023

Senior BJP leader Devender Singh Rana today said that promotion of the ancient heritage route to Shri Mata Vaishno Deviji Cave Shrine from Kol Kandoli Temple in Nagrota will bestow added spiritual bliss to pilgrims thronging from across the country and abroad and give renewed impetus to the Jammu economy. Flagging off the annual Charri Yatra, being held under the aegis of Shri Mata Vaishno Deviji Pracheen Marg Shrine Sanstha, from the historic heritage temple this morning amid Vedic Mantra and Bhaints of Maata, he said harnessing of the route has immense potential to give big fillip to the 24X7X365 pilgrimage, perhaps one of the biggest in the world.

The event was marked by offering of the ‘Mata Ki Chunri’, presented by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to the Sanstha at the Pratham Puja of the Yatra for the auspicious occasion. He expressed his gratitude to the Lieutenant Governor, who is also Chairman of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, for evincing keen interest in the project report prepared by the Jammu Chapter of INTACH for restoration of the Pracheen Marg and passing on instructions to the administration for ensuring smooth arrangements for the yatra.

He appreciated the organizers Harbans Lal, Randeep Singh, Pt. Jagdish Raj Sharma and all their team members, saying the effort will go a long way in promoting the ancient route, rich with spiritual bliss. Prominent among others who were present on the occasion included S M Sahni, Convenor INTACH Jammu Chapter, Sunaina Mehta, Joint Director Tourism, Jammu, Ambika Bali, Assistant Director Tourism, Babu Ram, Tehsildar Nagrota, Lala Kishore Sarpanch Nagrota, Sukhdev Singh Sarpanch Kanjali, Neelam Sharma Sarpanch Chibba, Sarpanch Sanjeev Singh, Pt.Rameshwar Dutt, Som Nath Khajuria and many others.

Interacting with the media persons, Rana stressed the need for exploring this route optimally in the backdrop of the INTACH report, prepared after carrying out detailed mapping of all the important heritage assets like step-wells, ponds, Sarais, wells, temples and springs along the trails, which were once used and maintained by the pilgrims. The route starts from Kol Kandoli (Nagrota) on the National Highway 1A and passes through Jagdamba Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple – Jagti, Durga Mata Temple – Pangali, Shiv Temple – Thandapani – Drabi, Shiv Shakti Temple, Raja Mandleek Temple- and Raja Nowalgarh Temple – Marh, Drabi, Kali Mata Temple – Gundla Talab, Ram Darbar, Shiv Temple- Bamyal and Oli Temple Chhapanoo-Bamyal. By reviving this route, he said the devotees could go back home after paying obeisance at the Durbar of the Mata with enlightenment they have been searching all their life. “Apart from spiritual aspect of the yatra, the promotion of Pracheen Marg will bring Jammu under focus and transform the economy of the peripheries from the City up to the cave shrine”, he said, adding that the pilgrim tourism has sustained the economy of Jammu and Kashmir in general and this region in particular during most difficult times post nineties and promoting these destinations by ensuring world class infrastructural facilities will prove catalyst for economic boom in this part of the country. Rana joined thousands of pilgrims to pay obeisance at the Kol Kandoli Temple and other destinations on the route. He prayed for peace, tranquility and universal brotherhood, the essence of the Sanatan Dharma, which believes in the universe to be a single family-Vasudeva Kutumbkam. The yatra carrying the Holy Jyot was profusely greeted by the people, queued on both sides of the road, with flower petals while chanting Mantras and Shalokas, up to the Oli Temple on the ancient route to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine on Trikuta Hills. Elaborating on the need for proactive approach in execution of various projects related to pilgrim sites, Mr Rana said the ancient link, passing through serene environs and spiritual ambience, offers spiritual solace and Darshan of several revered temple which used to pre-requisite before embarking on the yatra to holy Bhawan on Trikuta Hills over seven decades ago.

https://www.dailyexcelsior.com/rana-for-promotion-of-heritage-route/, March 24, 2023

An ancient-era stepwell has been discovered in Chanditala village under Barchana block of Jajpur district by the members of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), a culture and heritage research institute. INTACH project coordinator Anil Dhir informed that the well dates almost a millennium back. Heritage researcher Deepak Kumar Nayak, and history enthusiast Suman Prakash Swain along with INTACH coordinator Dhir have carried out a primary investigation/ review of the stepwell with the help of the locals. The ancient well is situated on a rectangular area of 120 feet length and 35 feet breadth at the foot of the Sikharchandi hillock at Chanditala village, researcher Nayak said. It has been built with red laterite stones in the form of a stepwell using ancient architecture.

Notably, step-wells with a long corridor of steps that descend to the water level, are examples of the many types of storage and irrigation tanks that were developed in different parts of India, mainly to cope with seasonal fluctuations in water availability. In Odisha, other such age-old wells are found at Udayagiri Buddhist corridor, Dalijoda jungle, Nilagiri royal palace, Baideswar temple, and Koshaleswar temple premises. But the recently discovered well at Chanditala is the biggest and deepest of them all in size. One can draw water with ease from the well by descending almost 80 feet deep into the well with the help of the steps.

Chanditala villagers are using the water from this stepwell to date. The well may have been constructed towards the end of the Soma dynasty or the beginning of the Ganga empire in erstwhile Odisha as gauged by the historical evidence and archaeological remains found from the Sikharchandi shrine atop the mound. Going by the findings, it is estimated that the well was dug 900 to 1,000 years back, said Nayak. INTACH coordinator Anil Dhir dubs the discovery as a marvel of Odisha’s ancient architecture. For hundreds of years without any care, the architectural wonder has been lying unattended but has overcome the test of time.

This could very well be the largest stepwell in the whole of Odisha. But the state Archaeology department is yet to take up any developmental work for the preservation of the well. The well has found its name as ‘Dedhasura-Bhaibohu’ well among the villagers. One side of a wall needs a little repair. The state Archaeology department and Tourism department should conduct detailed research on the ancient well and take steps for its conservation and publicity. INTACH will immediately intimate the state Culture department of the major discovery, Dhir said.

https://www.orissapost.com/millennium-old-stepwell-discovered-in-chanditala/, March 25, 2023

INTACH , Nagpur chapter organised “#Khana #Khazana: My Food Heritage’ essay and poster making competition on 18 March, at WES’s Shrinivas Public School, Seminary Hills. The program was organised under INTACH’S National Outreach Program and Coordinated by Dr. Madhura Rathod, Convener, Nagpur Chapter and Dr. Unnati Datar, Principal SPS. Chief guest Chef Vishnu Manohar discussed about the Food Heritage of Vidarbha. Director SPS, Varsha Manohar appreciated the students.

Dr. Madhura Rathod stressed on the vital importance of conservation of our culture and heritage. Dr. Unnati Datar while proposing the vote of thanks acknowledged the students enthusiasm inspite of their ongoing exams. More than 100 students participated from various schools. Teachers of SPS coordinated the event. Annesha conducted the program.

https://thelivenagpur.com/2023/03/31/khana-khazana-organised-by-intach-nagpur-chapter-on-march-18/, March 26, 2023

A new pearly white ornament rose against the South Mumbai skyline Friday evening even as the half moon framed it from the rear. The GPO (General Post Office) building near Fort, the headquarters of the postal department, dedicated its grand dome, which has been retrofitted and renovated, to the citizenry. This grand architectural feature is the second largest dome in the country after the Gol Gumbaz of Bijapur. The occasion was timed to coincide with the 110th anniversary of the GPO's construction. Rather than call celebrities, postmaster general, Mumbai region, Swati Pandey, invited the postmen and women who work in the building to release 110 tricolour balloons into the sky at the inauguration. She said, ``The primary dome is a composite structure of steel and concrete that had fallen into disrepair due to weathering and corrosion. It has a finial made of wood.

Moreover, the building has not been renovated properly in its entire history. This is the first time we are undertaking a full repair and restoration of GPO. Previously, each time some piecemeal repair was undertaken to the dome, layers of concrete were added which made it far heavier than it should be. All that excess concrete has been shaved off, and it is lighter now. The external dome has been completed while the inner portion is in progress.'' The three-phase repair of the GPO building is expected to finish by the year 2025. The GPO building was designed in Indo Saracenic style by noted British architect John Begg in 1902. Construction began September 1, 1904.

It was completed March 31, 1913 at a cost of Rs 18 lakh. The dome is located right above the familiar central hall where scores of employees work and hundreds of customers visit each day. Its diameter spans 65 ft, about half of the Gol Gumbaz which is 125 ft. There are 64 inverted lotus petals surrounding it. Heritage consultant INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage) and contractor Shrinivas Sulge of Laxmi Hericon carried out the task of repair for six months under the watchful eye of Pandey, who says she has monitored ``each tile'' that has been laid in the building. Sulge showed before and after pictures of the dome which pointed to grave deterioration at the start. Cracks had developed in the structure, which if not arrested in time, could have posed a danger to the people below. Extensive structural repair and waterproofing was carried out at a cost of Rs 1.10 crore. Pandey said the funds sought were readily approved by their ministry in New Delhi.

https://m.timesofindia.com/city/mumbai/grand-dome-of-gpo-building-in-mumbai-regains-its-lost-glory/amp_articleshow/99152688.cms, March 27, 2023

Under the Heritage Conservation Cell of the BMC, another fountain in Mumbai has been restored now! In order to preserve the city’s cultural heritage, a 120-year-old drinking water fountain has now been restored. The restoration took place at the Mumbai Zoo. The Seth Samaladas Pyau was built in 1953. This has given people another reason to visit this beautiful zoo in Mumbai.

Drinking Water Fountain Restored In Mumbai Zoo
The Seth Samaladas Pyau has now been restored at the Mumbai Zoo. The drinking fountain is located at the Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan and Zoo. 21 similar fancy fountains will soon be revived in the city of dreams. Throughout the city during the colonial era, ornate drinking fountains were common. Along with the architectural firm Vaastu Vidhaan Projects, the BMC (Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation) Conservation Heritage Cell has embarked on the restoration project. Within the Rani Baug compound, four fountains were restored during the first phase. The Seth Samaladas Pyau was revitalised as a fountain and a koi pond, while three fountains were rebuilt as water fountains.

The Water Kiosk Was 50 Per Cent Broken

As reported by the Indian Express, Rahul Chemburkar, an architect from Vaastu Vidhaan Projects, said that this pyau, or water kiosk, was about 50 per cent broken. He said that they took cues from its original design, which has a lion head on it and redrew the design. The inclusion of a koi pond was conceptualised by the firm in order to increase its aesthetic value. The drinking water pyau was originally made of marble but has now been revived using granite, black stone, and grey stone. The main idea behind all this is to celebrate the fountain culture of Mumbai.

Mumbai’s famous Flower Fountain at the Fort, which had been hidden from the public for a little more than two years due to repair work, was finally inaugurated in January 2023. The 155-year-old monument was officially unveiled by mayor Vishwanath Mahadeshwar and Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray. The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) was granted the task of renovating Mumbai’s renowned Flora Fountain by the BMC in September 2016.

https://curlytales.com/a-120-year-old-drinking-water-fountain-has-now-been-restored-at-mumbai-zoo/, March 29, 2023

The entire 4-acre complex should be secured by a wall or barbed wire fencing and the place declared as a protected monument, INTACH authorities suggested. The archaeological remains of a medieval era temple have been discovered by the Odisha chapter of Indian National Trust for Art & Cultural Heritage (INTACH) in close vicinity of a railway station at Purushottampur Sasana village in Badachana block of the Jajpur district. The temple ruins, near the Dhanmandal Railway Station, lay scattered in an area of four acres at the base of a small hillock, a little away from the railway siding.

The ruins are suggestive of a large temple complex that had crumbled down with the passage of time, said project coordinator, Intach, Anil Dhir. However, the base of the temple is still clearly visible. A large number of huge stone blocks, intricately carved stone panels, and few religious sculptures are found scattered all around the site. The most notable stone panels are the depictions of war processions, musical bands, royal processions, palanquins and elephants. Considering this iconography, the temple dates back to 13th or 14th Century C.E, the period when the Eastern Ganga Dynasty held sway over the region, he said.

https://www.thestatesman.com/india/archaeological-remains-of-medieval-temple-found-near-railway-station-in-odisha-1503161996.html, March 31, 2023