Century-old building of Travancore kingdom collapses
The building is believed to have been constructed during the period of Maharani Sethu Lakshmi Bayi, who ruled Travancore as regent. The primary purpose of the construction was to store the explosives required for the construction of temples and the Kottayam-Kumily (KK) Road. The building is believed to have been constructed around 100 years ago using stone and 'surkhi.' A magnet was fixed on the building's roof to protect it from lightning.
The building, covered by the roots of a banyan tree, has been in a dilapidated condition over the years. Recently, the roots started to wither, resulting in sudden damage to the building. On Tuesday, it collapsed. Residents have demanded measures to safeguard the historical structure.
A few Raj-era buildings still remain in the Peerumade hills. The 130-year-old Kuttikkanam Palace, also known as Ammachi Kottaram, is one such.
According to Tourism department sources, if the ownership of such historical buildings is given to the department, it can include the sites in heritage tourism projects and ensure the protection and historical worth of such buildings. Buildings such as the Thottappura would help educate the younger generation about our past, said a Toursim department official.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
News18
20 hours ago
- News18
Uttarakhand To Reopen Nanda Devi For Expeditions After More Than Four Decades
Last Updated: The Indian Mountaineering Foundation, with Uttarakhand's Tourism and Forest Departments, is leading the plan, but it's still pending official approval from the state. Nanda Devi, India's second-highest peak after Mount Kanchenjunga, is finally reopening its routes to climbers. After being off-limits for over four decades, this majestic peak is being reopened under a new tourism initiative by the Uttarakhand government. Why Was The Nanda Devi Closed? Nanda Devi was closed to climbers in 1983 due to environmental concerns and the aftermath of a Cold War-era nuclear surveillance operation that had gone awry. Since then, the peak has remained inaccessible, wrapped in mystery and reverence. Now, with renewed interest in mountaineering and growing enthusiasm among trekkers, the government is working toward making it climbable once more. Tourism-Driven Revival This initiative is being spearheaded by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) in collaboration with the Uttarakhand Tourism and Forest Departments. As part of this joint initiative, the IMF proposed reopening Nanda Devi for controlled expeditions. Though the state's tourism department has yet to officially greenlight the plan, the proposal signals a strong intent to boost eco-tourism in the region. In addition to Nanda Devi, other peaks – including Baljuri, Laspadhura, and Bhanolti in Bageshwar district, as well as Rudragaira in Uttarkashi – are also being considered for reopening. In India, the spiritual dimension of travel holds deep meaning, and the Nanda Devi region is no exception. For locals and pilgrims, this is not just another peak – it's sacred terrain. Indulge Express quoted one spokesperson who said, 'The Nanda Raj Jat yatra, held every 12 years, draws pilgrims nationwide to the Himalayas. It's a profound spiritual journey, underscoring Nanda Devi's immense religious significance for millions." He went on to say, 'The yatra is more than a trek; it's a sacred experience that showcases the region's rich cultural heritage." The reopening of Nanda Devi has sparked excitement across the mountaineering community, but it also raises a crucial question: can tourism be balanced with conservation? Preserving the fragile Himalayan ecosystem while allowing access to climbers will be a test of thoughtful planning and environmental responsibility. view comments First Published: July 19, 2025, 09:11 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
41st anniversary of The Times of India, Bengaluru: 10 things to do at Cubbon Park
Located in central Bengaluru, Cubbon Park has evolved from a colonial-era green space into one of the city's most cherished public spots. Spanning 300 acres, the park offers a unique blend of heritage and recreation, featuring Gothic libraries and British-era bandstands, alongside toy trains, dog parks, and a newly renovated fish aquarium. Over the decades, it has transformed from a quiet refuge into a vibrant space that unites nature, culture, and community, making it a must-visit destination for every Bengalurean. TAKE A HERITAGE WALK AROUND COLONIAL-ERA BUILDINGS You Can Also Check: Bengaluru AQI | Weather in Bengaluru | Bank Holidays in Bengaluru | Public Holidays in Bengaluru Cubbon Park is home to some of Bengaluru's finest examples of colonial architecture. The red-stoned State Central Library (built in 1915), the grand Vidhana Soudha, and the High Court make it an ideal spot for history enthusiasts. Walking through this area provides a glimpse into the city's evolution from a British cantonment to Karnataka's vibrant capital, blending civic pride with nature's abundance. VISIT THE HISTORIC STATUES Cubbon Park also features some of the city's oldest statues, commemorating prominent historical figures. These include statues of Major General Sir Mark Cubbon, K. Sheshadri Iyer, Queen Victoria, and Chamarajendra Wodeyar. Even a quick tour of these monuments offers glimpses into their backgrounds steeped in history and their contributions to Bengaluru and the park's legacy. CYCLE OR WALK THE TREE-LINED AVENUES With its extensive 300-acre expanse, Cubbon Park's lush green pathways are perfect for a morning walk or leisurely bike ride. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Why Mr. Chirag Jain never exits a trade in loss — even when he's wrong TradeWise Learn More Undo The park includes designated cycling zones and rental kiosks that make it easy to take a bike ride around those massive rain trees and gulmohars. While vehicles are permitted on weekdays, Cubbon Park is closed to traffic on weekends, allowing visitors to skate, cycle, or simply stroll through nature. EXPLORE THE STATE CENTRAL LIBRARY Situated at the heart of the park is the State Central Library -- a red Gothic-style building and a centuryold treasure trove of knowledge. With more than 300,000 books available in multiple languages, including Braille, it serves as a haven for students, scholars, and casual readers. Originally built as a public hall, it was converted into a library in 1915. The building is surrounded by a beautiful red rose garden, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. JOIN A WEEKEND DRUM CIRCLE OR CULTURAL MEETUP On Sundays, Cubbon Park transforms into a cultural melting pot. From drumming circles and book exchanges to group yoga sessions and poetry readings, community-led events showcase the vibrant and inclusive spirit of the city. It becomes a hub for conversations, laughter, and creativity, often attracting young artists, musicians, and dog lovers who gather near the bandstand or library lawns. ENJOY LIVE MUSIC AT THE HISTORIC BANDSTAND The Cubbon Park Bandstand, a charming circular cast-iron structure from the early 1900s, served as a venue for military bands that performed for the public on weekends, making it a cultural focal point of the Garden City. With its Victorianstyle architecture and domed roof, the Bandstand has stood the test of time, evolving into a venue for music, poetry, and yoga sessions — blending Bengaluru's history with its cultural spirit. DISCOVER THE AQUARIUM The Namma Bengaluru Government Aquarium, located right at the entrance to Cubbon Park, has recently been renovated into a world-class fish aquarium. This delightful mini-marine world offers a refreshing experience for families and children. Housed in an eye-catching octagonal building, the aquarium showcases a variety of colourful freshwater and marine fish species, making it a perfect stop for children to explore biodiversity and enjoy close encounters with aquatic life.
News18
2 days ago
- News18
DTTDC invites bids for horticulture work at three heritage sites in Delhi
New Delhi, Jul 18 (PTI) The Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation (DTTDC) has invited online bids for the development of horticulture and landscaping work at Bhuli Bhatiyari Ka Mahal, Bijri Khan Tomb and Maqbara-e-Paik sites in the national capital, along with a one-year maintenance period with an estimated cost of Rs 47.15 lakh. According to the tender notice issued by DTTDC on Thursday, the scope of work includes development of horticulture work, including landscaping with one-year maintenance at Bhuli Bhatiyari ka Mahal in the Central Ridge Reserve Forest in Karol Bagh, Bijri Khan Tomb in RK Puram and Maqbara-e-Paik in Mukarba Park along NH-1 Bypass. The estimated cost for the entire project is Rs 47.15 lakh, with an earnest deposit of Rs 94,316. The completion period is specified as 30 days for initial development, followed by one year of maintenance, the tender stated. The deadline for submitting the bid is 3 pm on July 25 and the earnest money in original form must be submitted by the same deadline, while the lowest bidder will be required to submit additional documents within seven working days after the bid opening, it mentioned. Tenderers have been advised to inspect the site and make themselves familiar with the nature of the work, site conditions, and access points. They will be responsible for arranging their own materials, tools, and facilities unless otherwise stated in the tender documents, it read. Bhuli Bhatiyari ka Mahal, located in the Central Ridge near Karol Bagh, is a 14th century hunting lodge believed to be built during the Tughlaq dynasty. The monument, now part of Delhi's protected ridge forest, is often associated with local folklore and is largely abandoned now. Bijri Khan's Tomb in RK Puram is an example of Mughal-era architecture, though lesser known, and stands amidst a busy urban landscape, often requiring upkeep to preserve its historic integrity. Maqbara-e-Paik, near Mukarba Chowk, is another under-recognised heritage structure believed to have been constructed during the late Mughal period, surrounded by modern infrastructure development and in need of aesthetic revival. PTI SHB SHB MNK MNK (This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed - PTI) view comments First Published: July 18, 2025, 20:15 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
