DDA on Thursday signed an MoU with Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) to undertake comprehensive documentation of historic structures across Delhi Ridge. The initiative will include listing and classification, development of heritage trails, installation of signage with the aim of preserving and promoting Delhi’s rich heritage. Spread over nearly 8,000 hectares, Delhi Ridge is divided into four zones, including northern Ridge, central Ridge, south central Ridge and southern Ridge, and is home to several historically significant yet lesser-known structures.

A senior DDA official said the collaboration is aimed at ensuring systematic conservation while enhancing public engagement with the city’s natural and cultural landscape. “This partnership with INTACH will help create a comprehensive inventory of heritage structures across Ridge and facilitate their preservation through informed planning and awareness initiatives,” the official said.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/dda-signs-mou-with-intach-for-ridge/articleshowprint/129987076.cms, April 1, 2026

Vedakumar highlighted efforts to ensure continuity of traditional skills across generations. Vedakumar Manikonda was on Thursday re-elected as governing council member of Intach, the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage, for a fourth consecutive term, securing the highest number of votes in the organisation’s history. His tenure is for three years. Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, Vedakumar said his work during his 42-year-long association with Intach had largely focused on protecting and promoting traditional artisans, particularly from districts, by supporting and encouraging them to sustain their crafts.

Vedakumar highlighted efforts to ensure continuity of traditional skills across generations. Citing an example, he referred to wooden string puppetry artists from Jangaon, where the son of a deceased artisan has taken up the craft.

“We have taken them to many districts and are now introducing these art forms in schools. Children are being taught the skills and later perform them,” he said, adding that several such initiatives are underway. Vedakumar has worked extensively in heritage conservation, including monuments, rock formations and intangible cultural practices across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. He has also played a role in advocating policies for heritage protection, including contributions to the Telangana Heritage Act, 2017.

https://www.deccanchronicle.com/southern-states/telangana/vedakumar-re-elected-to-intach-governing-council-for-fourth-term-with-record-votes-1945030, April 2, 2026

The appointment was announced in a release issued in Visakhapatnam on Friday. A retired Professor of Geology from Andhra University, Dr D Rajasekhar Reddy, has been appointed as the State Co-Convener of the Andhra Pradesh chapter of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH). His tenure will be for a period of three years, up to March 26, 2029. He is serving as Adviser for Geoheritage and Convener of the INTACH Visakhapatnam Chapter. In his new role, he will be responsible for coordinating INTACH’s activities across Andhra Pradesh, including programmes related to conservation, documentation, and awareness of cultural and environmental heritage. The appointment was announced in a release issued in Visakhapatnam on Friday.

https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/andhra-pradesh/2026/Apr/04/retd-au-prof-appointed-as-intach-state-co-convener, April 3, 2026

The walk started at 5.30 AM from the Dargah of Allama Fazl e Haq Khairabad, and touched heritage structures like the Ladies convict Barrack, Blessington, Govt Press, JNRM, location of signing of the instrument of surrender and culminated at the Battle of Aberdeen memorial. The walk was attended by students of Tourism dept of JNRM under the guidance of Mr. Rajasekaran, Members of Andaman Association of Tour Operators Mr. Vinod, Mr. Mohammed Rafiq and Mr. Biswajit and Andaman Nicobar Tour Operators Association, Mr. Salman, and Mr. N.B. Chetri along with a few walk-in participants from the Indian Navy Mr. Sanjay Solwat and Mr. Sandeep Malik, and a few school teachers from Kendriya Vidyalaya. Mr. Chanchal Singha Roy, a national awardee teacher also participated in the walk and very kindly narrated a short story “The Keeper of Silver Braid” on preservation of cultural heritage. And emphasized on why it was necessary to keep stories alive. The walk was conducted by Convenor, INTACH, A & N Chapter, Ms. Samhita Veda Acharyaa.

https://andamansheekha.com/154330/, April 4, 2026

A rare and deeply symbolic temple ritual performed in complete darkness during Maha Shivaratri has brought national recognition to a humble handloom weaver from Andhra Pradesh, with the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) conferring its prestigious Martand Singh Memorial Award posthumously on Prudhivi Venkateswarlu of Chirala. Venkateswarlu passed away last year at the age of 73. The honour recognises Venkateswarlu's extraordinary six-decadelong dedication to performing the sacred ‘Paagalankarana' (turban decoration) ritual at the revered Srisailam Sri Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy temple. The ritual, observed at midnight on Maha Shivaratri, is marked by a unique spiritual practice during which the entire temple town is plunged into darkness as power supply is switched off.

In keeping with the belief of Lord Shiva as Digambara — one who transcends material coverings — Venkateswarlu used to perform the ritual in a state of undress, symbolising purity and detachment. In pitch darkness, he would climb the temple tower and ceremonially wrap the sacred turban, completing the centuriesold practice with devotion and precision.

The ritual is considered an integral part of the temple's traditions and has been performed with rare consistency across generations. VIPs jostle for a seating to witness the ‘Paagalankarana' ritual in darkness at Srisailam temple. A native of Jandrapet in Bapatla district's Chirala, Venkateswarlu balanced his life as a handloom weaver with his spiritual responsibilities, carrying forward a family legacy of service at the temple. His commitment ensured the uninterrupted continuation of the ritual for nearly 60 years, earning him deep respect among devotees and temple authorities.

"Venkateswarlu and his family members treated the honour of turban decoration as God's gift and weaved the cloth while observing fasting. It takes at least 100 days to complete the weaving of the deity's turban," said INTACH member Vijayalakshmi, who recorded the history of the ritual. The award was presented at the national conclave of INTACH. Venkateswarlu's son Subbarao received the honour on behalf of the family.

The recognition highlights not only an individual's devotion but also the role of traditional artisans in preserving India's rich intangible heritage. INTACH Nandyal chapter convenor MV Sivakumar Reddy, who steered the proposal to the national level, noted that such rare practices, sustained quietly over decades, form the backbone of temple traditions and deserve wider recognition.

"By honouring Venkateswarlu, INTACH has brought national attention to a unique spiritual practice that blends devotion, symbolism and cultural continuity," he said, adding that Vijayalakshmi spent several months preparing a comprehensive report on the ritual and submit it to the national awards committee. National Federation for Handlooms and Handicrafts (NFHH) president Macharla Mohan Rao said Venkateswarlu's legacy will continue to inspire and strengthen the enduring link between faith, tradition, and craftsmanship in India's temple culture.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/vijayawada/handloom-weaver-conferred-intach-award-posthumously-for-temple-ritual/articleshowprint/129705580.cms, April 6, 2026

A heritage walk titled “Kaali Paani Trail” was conducted across key historical locations in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, bringing together students, tour operators, and heritage enthusiasts to revisit the region’s colonial past. Organised by the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage Andaman and Nicobar Chapter in collaboration with the Department of Art and Culture, the walk covered a distance of three kilometres. It commenced at 5:30 am from the Dargah of Allama Fazl e Haq Khairabadi and concluded at the Battle of Aberdeen memorial. Participants moved through a series of historically significant sites, including the Ladies Convict Barrack, Blessington, Government Press, Jawaharlal Nehru Rajkeeya Mahavidyalaya, and the location associated with the signing of the instrument of surrender.

The route connected multiple landmarks that reflect the layered history of the islands. Students from the Tourism Department of Jawaharlal Nehru Rajkeeya Mahavidyalaya joined the walk under the guidance of Rajasekaran. Members of the Andaman Association of Tour Operators, including Vinod, Mohammed Rafiq, and Biswajit, as well as representatives of the Andaman Nicobar Tour Operators Association, including Salman and N B Chetri, also took part.

Participants included individuals from the Indian Navy, Sanjay Solwat and Sandeep Malik, along with school teachers from Kendriya Vidyalaya. Chanchal Singha Roy, a national award-winning teacher, participated in the walk and narrated a short story titled “The Keeper of Silver Braid,” focusing on the importance of preserving cultural heritage. The narration highlighted the role of storytelling in keeping historical memory alive. The walk was led by Samhita Veda Acharyaa, Convenor of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage Andaman and Nicobar Chapter. The initiative aimed to create awareness about heritage conservation while encouraging community engagement with historical sites. The event reflected continued efforts to connect people with the region’s past through experiential learning and public participation.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/vijayawada/handloom-weaver-conferred-intach-award-posthumously-for-temple-ritual/articleshowprint/129705580.cms, April 7, 2026

INTACH Punjab conducted a workshop for all his conveners, co-conveners and advisory committee members of Punjab on 'Heritage and Citizen Training'. The two-day workshop aimed to impart training to all conveners and co-conveners so that they can then conduct similar workshop at the district-level. Brig Sukhjit Singh (retd), from the erstwhile royal family of Kapurthala, mentioned that there is an urgent need to conserve the cultural heritage. He advised everyone to put their best to pay attention to this important aspect which is often neglected. He said that action must be taken before it is too late, as once our heritage is lost, reviving it becomes extremely difficult. He particular mentioned the condition of Sainik School, which is housed in Jagatjit Palace which is on the cultural design having a remarkable Indo-Saracen architecture and is modelled after the Versailles Palace. He mentioned that Central and state government must take immediate action to carry out conservation. Maj Gen Balwinder Singh, INTACH Punjab Convener, said that INTACH has already submitted the Detail Project Report (DPR).

However, allocation of funds is still awaited. All the conveners of the state chapters gave their presentation and their vision to improve the cultural heritage at the chapter level. INTACH Advisory Committee member Kiranjot Kaur, who is also SGPC member and a passionate historian, gave an absorbing talk on pressing issues which Punjab must be addressed on urgent basis with particular reference to depletion of water, increase of salinity of soil and decrease in forest cover. Seema Chopra, another Advisory Committee member, spoke about campaign to bring the awareness in younger generation. Balvinder Singh, an architect who spoke on how we must take care of our tangible culture.

Lt Gen Amrik Singh Bahia, senior advisory committee member, spoke on Punjab’s military heritage, providing a detailed account spanning the Mughal era, colonial period, participation in the World Wars, the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and its current status. Maj Gen Balwinder Singh (retd), state convener, INTACH, mentioned that this effort was done with the help of INTACH Central office Delhi, HECS division under principal director Purnima Datt. He also said that this was golden opportunity for everyone to sit together and address the important issues pertaining to the cultural heritage.

https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/jalandhar/intach-punjab-holds-workshop-on-heritage-and-citizen-training/amp, April 10, 2026

The Heritage Education and Communication Service (HECS) division of Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) is organising an all-India poster competition ‘Tree of Life’ for school students of Classes 7 to 9.

The competition will be held at the Saraswati Vilasom Palace, West Fort in Thiruvananthapuram on April 18 from 10 a.m. The students will have to also write a supporting write-up.

The poster should depict any one indigenous tree or shrub with unique characteristics like leaves, barks, flowers or fruits that is found in the students’ region, along with the life found on and around the tree. The entry to the competition is free. Registration can be done by sending an email to: [email protected].

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/intach-to-organise-painting-competitio/article70869737.ece, April 13, 2026

The Mayurbhanj chapter of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) has urged the state govt to establish a ‘fossil park’ along the Budhabalanga river near Baripada, citing the site’s immense scientific and geo-heritage value. The site, known locally as the ‘Baripada Fossil Beds’, stretches across Satpautia, Usurudihi, Itamundia and Mukuramatia villages and is believed to contain well-preserved marine fossils dating back 12 to 15 million years to the Miocene epoch.

Scientific studies indicate that the region was once part of a shallow marine environment connected to open seas. The fossil assemblage includes shark teeth, rays (batoids), fish remains, molluscs and microfauna, pointing to a highly diverse prehistoric marine ecosystem. Researchers said these findings provide crucial insights into past climatic conditions, marine transgressions and the palaeo-environmental evolution of eastern India. During a recent field visit, INTACH members discovered fossilised remains of crocodiles, turtles, partial skulls and bones of marine creatures embedded in the sandy riverbed.

Locally referred to as ‘asura hada’ or ‘demon bones,’ the site is often avoided by villagers due to traditional beliefs. Anil Dhir, convener of INTACH’s Bhubaneswar chapter, said the site holds key evidence of life forms that existed millions of years ago and deserves urgent protection. “Preserving this heritage is not only a scientific responsibility but also a visionary step towards promoting Odisha as a global geo-tourism destination,” he added. Dhir pointed out that while India has 16 fossil parks, four managed by the Geological Survey of India and others featuring dinosaur and vertebrate remains, none focus on marine fossils. “If the Baripada site is granted geoheritage status, it could become the country’s first Marine Fossil Park,” he added.

Rashmi Rajya Laxmi Bhanj Deo, convener of INTACH’s Mayurbhanj chapter, wrote to the state authorities seeking declaration of the area as a state geo-heritage site to ensure its legal protection. She also proposed setting up a fossil park, along with an interpretation centre and a curated museum to showcase the region’s fossil diversity. INTACH has also recommended fencing the area and banning sand mining to prevent further degradation. Experts believe the Baripada fossil beds, described as a 12-million-year-old natural archive of Earth’s history, hold immense potential for scientific research, education and sustainable tourism if preserved and developed appropriately.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhubaneswar/intach-urges-state-to-set-up-marine-fossil-park-in-mayurbhanj/articleshowprint/130021802.cms, April 14, 2026

When the British massacred innocent people gathered for a peaceful meeting at Jallianwala Bagh in 1919, it turned into a horrific bloodbath, leaving behind wailing infants, grieving widows and blood-soaked ground. Among the survivors, Attar Kaur and Rattan Devi emerged as symbols of quiet defiance. They refused to accept the compensation offered by the British, calling it "blood money." Their stand received support from several national leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi.

Family members of Attar Kaur and her husband, Bhagmal Bhatia, who was killed in the 1919 massacre, were honoured at a special remembrance event organised by INTACH Amritsar. Marking Khalsa Sajna Diwas and the Jallianwala Bagh massacre anniversary, INTACH Amritsar, along with its partner organisations, organised a deeply moving ceremony at Jallianwala Bagh to honour the families of the martyrs. On the occasion, the Tarn Taran chapter also announced the launch of a Heritage Education Programme for students.

Meloni Devi and Manohar Lal Bhatia, the great-grandchildren of Bhagmal Bhatia and Attar Kaur, were present at the event. Sharing their family’s story, Manohar Lal Bhatia said that Attar Kaur was pregnant when she accompanied her husband to Jallianwala Bagh on that fateful day. After the massacre, she stayed beside her husband’s body. INTACH Amritsar Convenor Gagandeep Singh Virk also honoured diplomat and author Navdeep Singh Suri, whose grandfather, noted Punjabi novelist Nanak Singh, was a witness and survivor of the massacre. “Bibi Attar Kaur set an inspiring example of pride and self-respect by refusing the compensation offered by the British government — a sum of around Rs 25,000.

Her stance continues to inspire generations,” said Virk, adding that it was a solemn and inspiring moment to remember these great individuals. Suri shared how his grandfather immortalised the pain of the massacre in his timeless works Khooni Vaisakhi and Lahoo Bhijje Bol. These works were later translated into English by Suri himself, helping bring this historical truth and emotional legacy to a global audience. “Standing on that same sacred ground where my grandfather survived the hail of bullets is truly overwhelming,” he said. Virk added that great revolutionaries like Udham Singh emerged from the blood-stained soil of Jallianwala Bagh and later avenged the atrocity in London. Historian Surinder Kochhar shared insights with students on the significance of the tragedy and its global condemnation.

Retired Principal and Sikh thinker Harinder Kaur Riar paid heartfelt tributes to the martyrs, while eminent social worker Indu Arora appreciated the initiative. Around 70 students from various schools and institutions attended the event. Standing on the historic ground, they paid homage to the martyrs and pledged to keep this tradition alive every year. In his message, Maj Gen Balwinder Singh, INTACH State Convener, said that INTACH Punjab is making dedicated efforts to bring the cultural heritage of Punjab to the national and global stage.

https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/amritsar/students-walk-through-history-at-jallianwala-bagh-with-intach/, April 15, 2026

The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) Mayurbhanj Chapter has urged the Odisha government to establish a fossil park along the Budhabalanga river near Baripada to preserve 12-million-year-old marine fossil beds and promote geo-tourism. Authorities have overlooked this ground-breaking paleontological discovery for decades, failing to act despite its documented importance.

The site is a treasure trove of well-preserved prehistoric marine life, petrified and ossified, buried in the sand of the riverbed. The few fossils that have been studied represent a diverse array of marine species and offer a vivid glimpse into life millions of years ago. The region, commonly referred to as the “Baripada Fossil Beds," extending across Satpautia, Usurudihi, Itamundia, and Mukuramatia villages, preserves a remarkable assemblage of marine fossils dating back approximately 12–15 million years (Miocene Epoch).

Scientific investigations have established that this region was once part of a shallow marine environment connected to open seas. The fossil assemblage includes shark teeth, batoids (rays), fish remains, molluscs, and microfauna, representing a highly diverse prehistoric marine ecosystem. These findings provide crucial insights into past climatic conditions, marine transgression events, and paleo-environmental evolution of eastern India. The locals have named the fossil bed as “Asura Hada” (demon bones), and shun the place. On a field visit to the site, the INTACH team uncovered numerous fossilised remains of crocodiles, turtles, partial skulls, as well as fossil bones of marine creatures.

According to Anil Dhir, the Convener of INTACH’s Bhubaneswar Chapter, the site tells fascinating stories about the evolution of life in the region over the past tens of millions of years.

Preserving this heritage is not only a scientific responsibility but also a visionary step toward promoting Odisha as a global geo-tourism destination. Dhir further said that out of the 16 fossil parks in India, the Geological Survey of India manages four fossil parks, three of which are forest fossils and one vertebrate. Besides these, there are 12 more fossil parks with dinosaur and vertebrate remains, but none for marine life. If the Baripada Fossil Site is given the Geo-heritage tag, it will be the first Marine Fossil Park of the country. Maharani Rashmi Rajya Laxmi Bhanj Deo, the Convener of INTACH’s Mayurbhanj Chapter, has written to the authorities to declare the place as a State Geo-Heritage Site to ensure legal protection and conservation.

Setting up of a proper Fossil Park and Interpretation Centre, with a curated Fossil Museum showcasing the fossil diversity, will promote scientific research and preservation of the in-situ fossil exposures. The entire area should be fenced and sand mining not allowed. The Baripada Fossil Beds represent a 12-million-year-old natural archive of Earth’s history, offering immense potential for research, education, and sustainable tourism.

https://www.thehansindia.com/news/national/intach-seeks-setting-up-of-fossil-park-in-baripada-1064813, April 16, 2026

Mapping military heritage across the state, INTACH aims to reclaim history of sacrifice & remembrance. The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), Punjab, has undertaken a major project to map all villages that nurtured soldiers who fought in the World Wars. In a recently held military and literary festival at Ferozepur, INTACH Punjab State Convener Maj Gen Balwinder Singh (retd), while speaking on “Preserving military heritage and legacy of participation of Punjab in the world”, said INTACH would gather village-level data pertaining to the participation of soldiers and volunteers in the World Wars. Punjab has had one of the most influential military legacies in the country, wherein both World Wars are concerned: Within the British Indian Army, Punjabi soldiers were martyred in various European cities; and Sikh soldiers were the highest in number among Indians.

Maj Gen Balwinder Singh (retd) said Punjab’s military legacy needed archiving, and tracing this legacy across villages would be a way to do so. Harpreet Bhatti, INTACH Gurdaspur Convener, shared methodologies for the mapping at the village level. “This effort is not merely about revisiting the past; it is a mission to restore identity, dignity, and recognition to generations of soldiers whose sacrifices transcended borders but faded within their own homeland.

Several panchayats, and individuals, in Punjab have put up plaques to commemorate World War soldiers who hailed from their respective villages. But proper documentation remains missing," he said. During both World Wars, Punjab became the recruiting grounds for the British Indian Army, with its soldiers constituting almost 40 per cent of the over 1.3 million Indian soldiers in the body. “Among them, 75,000 died and more than 65,000 were wounded in World War I. During World War II, the contribution of Punjabi soldiers expanded further as the Indian Army became one of the largest contributory forces in history.

Despite their courage and resilience, the stories of these soldiers are often overshadowed by Eurocentric narratives of the wars. Now, their names, inscribed on scattered memorials across continents, rarely find a place in local histories, or collective consciousness back home," said Maj Gen Balwinder Singh (retd). One of the most pressing challenges in preserving Punjab’s military heritage is the missing oral histories of the men who were sent to war.

"By highlighting the role of Punjabi soldiers in international conflicts, INTACH broadens the understanding of Punjab’s place in world history," the Punjab Convener added. INTACH said it advocated for the restoration of these sites as well as the establishment of new memorials at the village level, which would serve as physical reminders of sacrifice; educational resources for future generations; and spaces for community engagement.

https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/amritsar/tracing-the-road-from-punjabs-villages-to-world-war-valour/?utm_source=inshorts&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=fullarticle, April 17, 2026

Six historic buildings across Hyderabad and Secunderabad, including Osmania University and CSI Wesley Church, have been awarded the INTACH Heritage Awards 2026 for their architectural and cultural significance, highlighting the city’s rich heritage and preservation efforts. Six centuries-old iconic heritage buildings in the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad have received INTACH Heritage Awards-2026, securing recognition as landmarks located across different areas. Among the awardees is the CSI Wesley Church near the clock tower in Secunderabad.

Built in the neo-Gothic architectural style in 1916, the church received the INTACH Heritage Award for its building and was cited as a testament to 110 years of historic existence. The church occupies a historically significant plot acquired from the British Government and the Nizam by the pioneering missionary. The Chemistry building at Osmania University was also recognised. The Department of Chemistry, described as one of the oldest and largest departments, traces its history to a Royal Chapter in 1917 under Nawab Osman Ali Khan, the 7 th Nizam of Hyderabad, and has a legacy spanning over 100 years.

The Navigation Training School in Begumpet received the award for its heritage value as a Premier Institution of Military Aviation training in India. It was established in 1946 at Royal Indian Air Force Station, Tambaram, later merged to form the Navigation and Signals School, and shifted in 1967 to the Air Force Station, Begumpet building. Sri Puri Jagannath Temple in General Bazar, Secunderabad, was honoured for its architectural character.

Built by philanthropist Ramgopal Malani, who built the Ramgopalpet Police Station building, the temple’s structure was noted as a synthesis of Rajasthani influence and local heritage, featuring intricate nakashi embossments on walls and pillars, cusped arches, and decorative medallions. The Institute of Engineers (India) Telangana State Centre in Khairatabad was recognised as part of the awards. Established in 1938 to address the need for a society for the advancement of engineering science India, it received support through Dewan Bahadur Aravamuddu Iyengar, Minister for Water Works and Public Health, who donated about one acre of land for construction. The foundation stone was laid in 1945 and the building was occupied in 1947.

College of Defence Management (CDM) House in Secunderabad Cantonment, built in 1885, also received the INTACH Heritage Award. The building serves as the residence of the Commandant of College of Defence Management, Secunderabad, and was cited for an architectural approach suited to the Deccan Region, alongside its association with knowledge and skill development for the Defence Forces. “Since 1996, the INTACH, Hyderabad Chapter has been presenting awards. The recognition applies to a set of structures regarded as historic and iconic within the city, placing them under the heritage listing associated with the Indian National Trust for Art & Culture Heritage, Hyderabad Chapter,” Anuradha Reddy, convenor of INTACH, Hyderabad Chapter, told Telangana Today.

https://telanganatoday.com/hyderabad-six-iconic-heritage-buildings-win-intach-awards-2026, April 20, 2026

Koraput: The INTACH, Koraput chapter, has decided to send a proposal to the culture department to convert the house, where noted Odia writer Gopinath Mohanty once lived in Koraput, into an interpretation centre. The house served as Mohanty’s residence during his posting as an OAS officer in the 1940s. It was here that he spent several years and penned some of his most celebrated novels. At present, the building lies in a dilapidated condition and is being used as a godown by BSNL authorities. Ajit Patra, district convenor of INTACH Koraput, said, “We have taken stock of the house which once served as the official residence of the renowned writer. The interpretation centre will showcase photographs related to the writer, his works, and his association with the tribal-dominated district.” Born in Cuttack, Mohanty drew deep inspiration from his time in Koraput. During his posting, he authored landmark novels such as “Dadi Budha”, “Paraja” and “Amrutara Santana”, all rooted in the lives of the Paraja and Kondh tribes of the region. A recipient of the Jnanpith award, he was also the first winner of the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1955 for “Amrutara Santana”. The proposal has been widely welcomed by local poets and writers. Prafulla Mahapatra, director of COATS, said, Mohanty was a prolific writer of the mid-20th century, and his contribution to literature is immense. "Converting his residence into an interpretation centre would not only preserve his legacy but also serve as a valuable learning space and a fitting tribute to the legendary writer," he said. Gopinath Mohanty, who was born in 1914, died on Aug 20, 1991, at the age of 77.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhubaneswar/intach-to-move-govt-to-convert-gopinath-mohantys-house-into-interpretation-centre/articleshowprint/130400036.cms, April 21, 2026

Maalvika Pathania, state convener of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage and a resident of Jassur, has been elected national vice-chairperson of the organisation. The decision was taken unanimously at a meeting of the National Governing Council held in Delhi on Saturday. Her name was proposed by INTACH chairman Ashok Thakur and seconded by members of the governing council.

Pathania had recently secured a position on the council in the 41st pan-India elections held on March 19, where she received the highest number of votes. Founded in 1984, INTACH is one of the world’s largest heritage organisations, dedicated to the conservation of India’s cultural and natural legacy. It operates through more than 200 chapters across the country, addressing architectural, natural, material and intangible heritage.

Pathania has been associated with the INTACH since its inception. She served as convener of the Kangra Chapter from 1984 to 2004 and later as Himachal Pradesh state co-convener until 2012, before being appointed state convener.

https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/himachal/nurpurs-maalvika-pathania-elected-intach-national-vice-chairperson/, April 22, 2026

A rally was conducted to create public awareness on heritage conservation, with participation from students, faculty and citizens. World Heritage Day was observed in Guntur on Saturday with participation from students, academicians and heritage enthusiasts. The programme was organised at Jagarlamudi Chandramouli Law College in collaboration with the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH). Over 200 students took part and were sensitised to India’s cultural and historical heritage. Historical researcher Pamulapati Srinadh Reddy delivered a presentation on historical structures and sites in and around Guntur. A rally was conducted to create public awareness on heritage conservation, with participation from students, faculty and citizens. Participants also visited the Archaeological Museum opposite A.C. College, where INTACH members explained the significance of exhibits. INTACH Guntur convenor Mudigonda Ravishankar urged students to explore opportunities in heritage and related fields. Red Cross State Secretary Ramachandra Raju and JKC College Principal Sudhakar Babu highlighted the need for greater awareness of the region’s historical legacy. Akhil Bharatiya Panchayati Parishad National Vice-President Dr Jasti Veeranjaneyulu and others were present.

https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/himachal/nurpurs-maalvika-pathania-elected-intach-national-vice-chairperson/, April 22, 2026

On the occasion of World Earth Day, the INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage) Udaipur Chapter successfully organized a special educational and awareness visit to the Jhamarkotra mines of Rajasthan State Mines and Minerals Limited (RSMML). The main objective of the visit was to understand the balance between mining activities and environmental conservation, and to spread awareness about it in society. On this occasion, 10 life members of INTACH participated and observed firsthand the modern mining processes, environmental protection measures, and sustainable practices being implemented in the mining area.

Officials from RSMML provided detailed information about land reclamation after mining, increasing green cover, and efforts to maintain ecological balance. Coordinator Gaurav S. Singhi informed that during the visit, INTACH members and participants also planted two trees, expressing their commitment to environmental conservation. This initiative further strengthened the message of responsibility toward nature and its protection. Students from Verv – The School of Design and Vastu also actively participated in the program, gaining practical knowledge and valuable insights from an environmental perspective. The educational visit included participants such as Munish Goyal, Maheep Bhatnagar, Priyanka Vaishnav, Suraj Soni, Mahesh Sharma, Rohit, Vijay, and Owais, among others.

The program was successfully organized and led by INTACH life member Pradeep Kothari and INTACH Udaipur Chapter Coordinator Gaurav S. Singhi. The INTACH Udaipur Chapter expressed its heartfelt gratitude to the RSMML management for their cooperation in this important educational and awareness initiative. The visit proved to be highly informative and inspiring for all participants, motivating them to become more aware and sensitive toward environmental conservation, responsible resource utilization, and sustainable development.

https://pressnote.in/Lakecity-Headlines_534650.html, April 22, 2026

April 21 marked a moment of rare historical symmetry—five centuries since the dawn of the Mughal era in the Indian subcontinent. It was on this very day in 1526 that Babur, commanding a modest force of just 12,000, overcame the formidable Ibrahim Lodi at the First Battle of Panipat. With that decisive victory, the foundations of an empire were laid—one that would shape not merely the political contours of India, but its very soul. What unfolded over the next three centuries was not simply imperial rule, but a civilisational renaissance. The Mughal dynasty infused the subcontinent with a refined aesthetic sensibility—an enduring legacy expressed through luminous architecture, opulent cuisine, and a sophisticated artistic vocabulary. Even today, the echoes of that era remain woven into the cultural fabric of India. To commemorate this quincentenary, we shift our gaze away from the well-trodden icons and toward a more intimate journey.—one that reveals the quieter, often overlooked masterpieces of Mughal heritage. These are places where history does not announce itself with grandeur, but rather lingers in hushed corridors, sun-dappled courtyards, and intricately carved stone.

Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah
Arrive early, when the morning mist still lingers above the river, and the world feels gently suspended. The first glimpse of this mausoleum is almost disarming—not grand in scale, but impossibly delicate. Set gracefully along the banks of the Yamuna, this exquisite mausoleum—often affectionately dubbed the “Baby Taj”—is a study in refinement.

Commissioned by Nur Jahan in memory of her father, Mirza Ghias Beg, the tomb heralded a transformative moment in Mughal architecture, and the place itself feels less like a tomb and more like a keepsake carved in stone. Run your hand along its cool marble surface and you’ll feel the subtle undulations of pietra dura—semi-precious stones inlaid so finely they seem painted rather than placed. They bloom across surfaces in intricate floral motifs. Step inside, and the light softens into a golden hush, filtered through intricately carved jali screens. casting lace-like patterns across the interior surfaces. The effect is hushed, contemplative. Outside, the Yamuna continues its unhurried flow; inside, time seems equally unhurried.
Akbari Fort & Museum
In the historic city of Ajmer, the air carries a different weight—warmer, dustier, threaded with memory. As you pass through the formidable gates of this fort, the temperature drops, and so does the tempo of your thoughts. Built by Akbar and later frequented by Jahangir, these walls have absorbed centuries of whispered counsel and imperial deliberation. Commissioned by Akbar in 1570, the structure was conceived not merely as a military stronghold, but as a refined imperial residence—one that would later host his son, Jahangir, during his time as prince. Today, its interiors unfold as a museum first established in 1908 under the stewardship of Lord Curzon and John Marshall, then Director-General of Archaeology in India. Inside the museum, time unfolds in fragments—gleaming armour, timeworn manuscripts, sculptures that seem to watch as much as they are watched— the walls seem to be echoing past moments of both political strategy and royal repose. But it is outside, in the quiet expanse of the courtyards, where the experience deepens. Stand still long enough and you may begin to imagine the rustle of royal garments, the distant call of attendants, the slow choreography of a court in motion.

Yet beyond the curated displays, it is the atmosphere that lingers—the quiet majesty of expansive courtyards and the sense of stepping into a living chronicle of Mughal and Rajput histories intertwined. Walk through its corridors and out into the sunlit courtyards, and the past feels startlingly close. The stone beneath your feet has known emperors, envoys, and emissaries; its silence is not empty, but layered. Here, history is not confined to exhibits—it lingers in the architecture itself, in the proportion of arches, in the stillness of its expansive grounds, in the sense that this was once a place where power paused, if only briefly, to breathe.

Akbar's Tomb
At Sikandra, the landscape opens out into a sanctuary of calm. This is no ordinary mausoleum—it is a philosophical statement rendered in stone. Here, the monument remains as one of the most philosophically resonant monuments of the Mughal age—the mausoleum of Akbar himself. Walk through its grand gateway, and the world seems to quieten. The structure rises in measured tiers, its red sandstone warmed by the sun, its white marble accents catching the light in fleeting flashes. Conceived by the emperor and completed by his son Jahangir (construction commenced around 1605, the year of his death, and was completed by his son Jahangir in 1613) , this structure is an architectural manifesto of inclusivity. Its tiered, pyramidal form rises without the expected central dome, instead unfolding through a harmonious interplay of red sandstone and white marble.

Look closely, and the surface reveals a rich tapestry of influences. Hindu brackets, Islamic arches, Persian motifs, even hints of Jain and Buddhist design vocabularies coexist effortlessly, echoing Akbar’s vision of a pluralistic empire. As you pass through the grand southern gateway—adorned with intricate geometric patterns and inlaid marble—you step into an expansive charbagh garden, where pathways stretch in perfect symmetry. Each level feels lighter than the one below, culminating in an open marble pavilion that meets the sky—a striking departure from the enclosed grandeur of monuments like the Taj Mahal. Yet, beyond its architectural significance, it is the atmosphere that lingers. Deer graze quietly across the gardens; langurs move languidly along the pathways. The monument does not impose—it invites stillness. There is space here to wander, to pause, to absorb.

Chini Ka Rauza
Not far from Agra’s more celebrated landmarks lies a structure that feels almost forgotten—yet all the more compelling for it. The Chini Ka Rauza, Afzal Khan Shirazi, a courtier of Shah Jahan, unfolds like a fragment of Persia transported to India—foral arabesques and geometric patterns ripple across its surface, evoking a sense of poetic restraint. Architecturally, the structure departs from the marble refinement seen in nearby Mughal monuments such as the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah or the Taj Mahal. Instead, it leans into a more textural, almost tactile aesthetic—brick and plaster forming the base, elevated by the artistry of its surface decoration. Step closer, and the details begin to emerge. Glazed tiles—once vivid in shades of turquoise, cobalt blues and lapis saffron and deep ochres—now softened by time and weather, still cling to the façade in intricate floral arabesques and geometric patterns.

If you visit at dusk, the fading sunlight seems to awaken those colours once more, if only briefly. Fragments of glaze still catch the light; patterns still ripple across the surface like echoes of a richer past. There is a quiet melancholy here, a beauty tinged with impermanence, as though the monument itself is aware of the centuries it has endured. As the sun begins its descent, and the rauza reveals its most compelling mood, the softened light grazes the worn tiles, briefly rekindling their lost vibrancy. Shadows deepen within its recesses, and the monument takes on an almost painterly quality—like a fading fresco that refuses to be forgotten.

Mariam-uz-Zamani's Palace
Within the grand, almost theatrical expanse of Fatehpur Sikri, there exists a space that feels unexpectedly intimate—measured not in imperial scale, but in lived experience. The Mariam-uz-Zamani's Palace, commissioned by Akbar around 1570–1574, was built as part of his newly established capital, and is widely associated with his Rajput consort, Mariam-uz-Zamani. From the outside, the structure appears restrained—its red sandstone walls warm and unassuming under the sun.

But step through its gateways, and the palace begins to unfold in a sequence of courtyards and chambers that feel deeply personal. The architecture reveals a striking synthesis-embodying a delicate fusion of Mughal and Rajput design sensibilities. Rajput influences are immediately visible in the trabeate construction, carved brackets, and ornamental panels, while Mughal sensibilities shape the symmetry and spatial planning.

Delicate floral motifs, geometric patterns, and finely detailed friezes animate the surfaces, rewarding a slower, more attentive gaze. At the heart of the palace lies an expansive courtyard—sunlit, serene, and enclosed in a way that creates a sense of retreat from the larger complex. Walk along its perimeter in the early morning or late afternoon, and you’ll notice how the light transforms the space: shadows lengthen across carved stone, textures deepen, and the red sandstone seems to glow from within. It is a space that speaks not of power, but of intimacy—of cultural exchange, shared aesthetics, and a vision of unity expressed through architecture.

Bibi Ka Maqbara
In the heart of Aurangabad, the silhouette of this mausoleum rises with the familiar grace of Agra’s most iconic structure, the Taj Mahal, yet reveals its individuality the closer you draw. Commissioned by Aurangzeb in memory of his wife, Dilras Banu Begum, this mausoleum is often called the “Taj of the Deccan”. The approach is deliberate. Along the axial pathway, formal gardens echo the charbagh tradition. Up close, the material story becomes more nuanced.

As you walk inwards, watch the mausoleum’s marble façade gleam beneath the sun, framed by slender minarets and intricate carvings that reveal themselves in layers—floral motifs, calligraphic flourishes, and the artistry of stucco decoration—delicate, almost lace-like, softening the structure’s symmetry and lending the monument a soft, almost velvety texture. Step within, and the atmosphere shifts. The interior is hushed, the light subdued, filtering down toward the cenotaph of Rabia-ud-Daurani. There is a stillness here that feels deeply personal-less a proclamation of imperial grandeur, more an expression of restrained devotion. Visit at dawn or dusk, and the maqbara reveals its most compelling character.

The marble catches the first or last light, glowing gently, while the surrounding garden settles into shadow. In these moments, the monument seems to withdraw from comparison entirely, standing not as an echo of the Taj Mahal, but as its own quiet meditation on love, memory, and legacy.

Shalimar Bagh
In the valley of Srinagar, the Mughal vision of paradise feels almost tangible. Here, mountains rise like painted backdrops and the air carries the faint scent of chinar and water. A space that feels almost imagined into existence, the Shalimar Bagh, commissioned in 1619 by Jahangir for his beloved Nur Jahan, is not merely a garden. It is a carefully composed experience. Follow the gentle sound of flowing water as it guides you through terraced gardens. Fountains rise and fall in rhythmic cadence; chinar leaves flicker in the breeze; distant mountains frame the horizon like a scenic panaroma.

Walk slowly, and the sensory layers begin to unfold. Water moves constantly here—cascading over stone chutes, pooling briefly before continuing its journey, its sound soft yet ever-present. Chinar trees line the pathways, their leaves filtering sunlight into shifting patterns that dance across the ground. Open pavilions punctuate the garden, offering moments of pause—spaces where architecture frames the landscape rather than dominating it. The genius of the place lies in its balance. Persian principles of symmetry and order are seamlessly woven into the natural contours of Kashmir’s landscape. At dusk, the garden transforms. The light softens, the fountains catch the last glow of the day, and the terraces recede into shadow one by one. Sit beside the water, and the centuries begin to blur.

Kanch Mahal
Tucked almost discreetly within the sprawling complex of Fatehpur Sikri, the Kanch Mahal feels like a secret waiting to be noticed. Away from the grand courtyards, this elegant structure offers a glimpse into the more private, leisurely rhythms of Mughal life.

Believed to have been associated with Jahangir in the early 17th century, the pavilion is often described as a retreat—possibly even a hunting lodge or a residence for women of the royal household. Unlike the imposing architecture of imperial halls, Kanch Mahal carries a lighter presence, its charm lying in detail rather than scale. Its façade, carved from warm red sandstone, is richly ornamented.

Look closely and you’ll find a tapestry of motifs—wine vases, sinuous floral creepers, arabesques, and geometric patterns rendered with remarkable finesse. . Arched openings punctuate the structure, framing fragments of the surrounding landscape and allowing light to move freely through the interiors. Step inside, and you can almost imagine the interiors once shimmering with reflective inlay, catching lamplight in a dance of shadows and glow. The name itself—Kanch, meaning glass—hints at a more opulent past. It is believed that the interiors were once adorned with glass or mirror inlay, designed to catch and scatter light, transforming the space into a shimmering interplay of reflection and radiance.

https://t2online.in/goodlife/travel/500-years-of-the-mughal-empire--spotlighting-lndia-s-hidden-heritage-sites/2004781, April 23, 2026

The INTACH Patna chapter organised a heritage walk from Patna College to the NIT building to mark World Heritage Day on Saturday. During the event, retired professor Wasi Ahmad (90) addressed participants on the 400-year-old Dutch structure of Patna College. He also introduced them to several heritage buildings in the city and stressed the urgent need for their conservation. Ahmad said the structure was built using a mixture of lime, crushed brick, fenugreek and sugar cane juice.

He added that its architectural design, including high ceilings, helps regulate indoor temperature in accordance with the local climate. He further observed that the teak wood used in staircases and windows has remained intact even after four centuries. He suggested that INTACH should undertake systematic documentation of such sites through photography and videography to preserve records of the city’s architectural heritage. Bhairab Lal Das, convener of the Patna chapter, flagged off the walk and spoke about the historical significance of the route.

Shiv Kumar Mishra, co-convener of INTACH Bihar state, said the govt should formally classify historically and archaeologically significant buildings as protected heritage sites to ensure their preservation. The walk began at Patna College, proceeded to the NIT building, and concluded at NIT Ghat along the Ganga. It was attended by artists, students and local residents.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/patna/heritage-walk-flags-urgent-need-to-preserve-patnas-historic-buildings/articleshowprint/130359234.cms, April 24, 2026