Hyderabad, March 17: A unique synthesis of Palladian Neo-Classicism of the mid 18th century and Islamic revivalist of the 19the century, Chowmahalla Palace, stands testimony to the architectural magnificence and splendor that the Nizams patronised. The historic monument was awarded the UNESCO Asia Pacific Heritage Conservation Award of Merit for 2010 on Tuesday.
The award was officially presented to Princess Esra Jah by Makino Takahiko, programme specialist, UNESCO. “This prize is important not just to us but the city as well. Great care has been taken to be able to produce this work for us,” said Esra Jah. Rahul Mehrotra Associates were appointed the prime consultants for the architectural conservation of the spectacular complex.
“I thank the princess for the support she gave us in this endeavour. Nothing can be done without right patronage. This is an asset to the city as people from all walks of life come here. It has been a satisfying experience,” said Rahul Mehrotra, principal architect.
The restoration of the palace involved several complex tasks — ranging from reconstitution of dilapidated sections of the complex to stabilising the existing structural components. “I am very honoured to present the UNESCO Heritage Award to princess Esra Jah and also congratulate the project team members and other key figures involved in the project who have ensured the successful conservation of this important heritage building,” said Takahiko Makino, programme specialist culture, UNESCO, New Delhi, in his address.
The UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Awards recognise private sector efforts in successfully conserving buildings of heritage value in the region. “UNESCO believes that lauding private efforts will encourage other property owners to undertake conservation projects within the community, either independently or by seeking public-private partnerships,” said Makino.
In 2010, 33 entries from 14 regional countries were submitted for consideration. Other recipients of the Award of Merit include Fu’long Taoist Temple in Sichuan, China and the Old Houses in the Galle Fort in Sri Lanka, added Makino. “The restoration of Chowmahalla Palace has rescued an extraordinary complex from years of abandonment and re-opened it up for contemporary civic use as a private museum after a meticulous process of restoration. Also, it has given impetus to reviving local building materials and traditional ways of construction,” said Makino.
–Agencies