New Delhi’s historic buildings have undergone more changes in the last two months than in the last ten yearswarned Print. “Ahead of G20 Summit, New Delhi benefits from $120 million renovation”continued Indian online media.
Authorities have been working hard for months to contain it “transforming the capital into a shining emblem of modern India – a shimmering, flamboyant and fitting host to the world’s largest economies”.
Monuments and historic buildings in India’s capital have also benefited from restoration and modernization efforts, but this has left experts horrified.
A mosque turns pinke
For example, the mosque from the Mughal era (1526 – 1857) in Lodhi Garden, a beautiful garden located in the heart of New Delhi, “suddenly turned pink due to the cast and new sports equipment like lights”. This small mosque is famous for the patterns and writings on its interior walls. “Today plaster was applied to the gap, hiding the calligraphy writing that should have been repaired.”regret the article.
Another monument, built by a British officer in the early 19th centurye century at the Mehrauli archaeological park, also suddenly has a roof and is gearing up to become a cafe.
Beauty versus conservation
“What they are doing is beautifying, not preserving”, architect, urban planner and conservation specialist AGK Menon was quoted as saying Print. “For someone committed to preserving cultural heritage, this looks more like vandalism.” The question that arises is whether contractors and workers have been trained in the preservation of historical monuments.
“In the beautification process, we wanted a clean facade – and that erased our past”said Rakshanda Jalil, historian. “Monuments or buildings that do not have their original characteristics are just empty shells. No effort was made to preserve the calligraphy and stucco graffiti on the facade of this building”he regrets it.
“In the rush to appear bright, urban and cultured, preserving Delhi’s highly complex and syncretic history has become a top priority”regret Print.
