Belagavi's British-era buildings to retain heritage value
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Belagavi: In a move to preserve the city's colonial-era architectural heritage, the Belagavi district administration has decided to retain and restore the historic deputy commissioner's (DC) office and the regional commissioner's (RC) office buildings, constructed by the British in 1910.
Both structures, built in the distinctive Indo-Gothic style, will now be repurposed for public use.
The Indo-Gothic architectural style, which gained prominence in British India during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, is a blend of European Gothic Revival elements blended with Indian, Islamic, and Hindu architectural features. Typically reserved for prestigious public buildings such as courts, universities, railway stations, and govt offices, this style is notable for its intricate detailing and imposing structure.
Originally, the district administration proposed demolishing both heritage buildings to make way for a new DC's office complex. The state govt allocated Rs 50 crore in the budget for the first phase of the project, wherein the offices of the various govt departments will be housed under a single roof. However, the plan sparked strong objections from historians and heritage activists, prompting a reassessment.
Responding to their concerns, the administration reversed its decision.
"We decided to retain both buildings in their original form and restore them using the same materials. Once the new DC's office complex is completed, the heritage buildings will be opened for public use," said deputy commissioner Mohammad Roshan, speaking to the TOI.
DC's office building will be converted into a library, while the RC's office building will house a museum and exhibition space. "The aim is to preserve Belagavi's rich historical legacy and make it accessible to future generations," Roshan added.
As per archival records, both buildings date back to 1910. "We have original documents and layouts from the record room. Though the buildings appear to be tiled, they are actually constructed using Indore-based basalt stone, a fine-grained igneous rock known for its strength and durability. We will be using the same stone for the restoration, with expert architects leading the work," Roshan said.
Belagavi DC's office building was inaugurated during the tenure of British officer BA Brandon in 1910. It underwent partial renovation in 2007 under the then DC Shalini Rajneesh. The three-storey structure comprises 30 rooms and two meeting halls.
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