The fate of the Lansdowne Building in Mysuru highlights the broader dilemma facing heritage conservation in many cities — a struggle between preservation and modernization. Built in 1892 to commemorate the visit of Lord Lansdowne, the then Viceroy of India, the building represents a rich legacy of colonial architecture and Mysuru’s prominence as a heritage city. However, its current state of neglect, coupled with debates around its restoration versus demolition, underscores the challenges in safeguarding cultural landmarks.
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| Devaraja Market in Mysuru, starofmysore.com |
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| Devaraja Market in Mysuru, starofmysore.com |
The 135-year-old Devaraja Market on Sayyaji Rao Road built in the 1890s is a busy place and is a symbol of Mysore Royalty and culture of this city. The history of the market goes back to the 24th Maharajah, Nalvadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar. Built in Indo -Saracenic architecture, the complex has 800 to 900 shops. The municipal corporation has considered the building unsafe. The legal issues, etc remain unsolved for a long time. Till such a time the fate of Shop-Keepers who ran their shops here are hanging in the balance. there is an urgent need to save this heritage building from further ruins. Commissioned by Maharajah Chamarajendra Wadiyar X to honour the visit (on November 10, 1891) of the Viceroy and the Viceroy of India (1888–1894), the Marquess of Lansdowne initially cit was known as Range Bazaar. It was a famous commercial complex and an important heritage building in Mysore.
Key Issues Surrounding the Lansdowne Building:
Structural Dilapidation:
The building has suffered neglect over decades, culminating in the collapse of portions of its roof in 2012. Attempts at partial restoration were initiated but halted due to funding issues and bureaucratic inertia, leaving the structure vulnerable to further deterioration.Conflicting Expert Opinions:
Reports from structural engineers present conflicting views. Some advocate demolition and reconstruction in the same architectural style, citing safety concerns, while others demonstrate successful restorations of similarly aged and damaged heritage buildings elsewhere.Impact on Heritage Identity:
Mysuru is celebrated as a "Heritage City," with structures like Lansdowne Building and Devaraja Market forming the core of its cultural identity. Replacing these buildings with modern replicas would dilute the authenticity of the city's heritage narrative.Stakeholder Engagement:
Calls from stakeholders, including the Mysuru royal family, have emphasized restoration over demolition. Notably, Pramoda Devi Wadiyar has offered expert resources from ongoing restoration projects, urging authorities to preserve these landmarks.Economic and Aesthetic Considerations:
Heritage structures often serve as economic assets, drawing tourists and fostering local pride. Temporary shops and construction delays have already marred the Lansdowne Building's surroundings, further emphasizing the need for a thoughtful approach.
A Way Forward:
To address these issues, Mysuru City Corporation could adopt a comprehensive plan prioritizing preservation:
- Thorough Structural Assessment: Engage neutral heritage conservation experts to provide an unbiased report.
- Collaborative Restoration Efforts: Leverage expertise from successful heritage restoration projects in India and abroad, such as those led by the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH).
- Community Involvement: Actively involve shopkeepers, historians, architects, and residents in decision-making.
- Sustainable Funding: Seek government grants, CSR funds, and international aid focused on heritage conservation.
Preserving Lansdowne Building is not just about maintaining a physical structure; it is about honoring the city’s history, identity, and the collective memory of its people. Decisions made today will determine whether Mysuru retains its rightful place as a "Heritage City" or loses an irreplaceable part of its soul.
https://www.navrangindia.in/2023/10/devaraja-and-lansdowne-buildings-mysuru.html
https://starofmysore.com/heritag-laid-bare-the-crumbling-lansdowne-building/
