Mixed opinions over choice of venue for Telangana I-Day celebration

Dr Lubna Sarwat, an Aam Aadmi Party leader, has written to the Archaeological Survey of India in Delhi and in Hyderabad, and to the director of Monuments to stop the government from making arrangements inside the fort for the event.

While activists are against the idea, some experts and architects feel that if measures to ensure no damage is done to the fort are implemented, it might actually be beneficial for the monument.

“Arrangements for Independence Day celebrations, would entail use of machinery, disturbing the terrain and contours of the heritage structure of Golconda Fort. It is also a violation of law under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (Amendment and Revalidation) Act, 2010 and 1958,” said Dr Sarwat.

Another activist, Raju Rao, said, “Why would they want to conduct such a large scale event inside a protected monument? The leveling works are definitely going to damage the fort.”

Meanwhile, heritage expert and founder of Deccan Heritage Trust, Safiullah, said that this was a good way of rekindling people’s interest in heritage. “This is a great move. Culturally, the place has been built by the three dynasties of Kakatiyas, Qutb Shahis and the Asaf Jahis. Damage will hardly be an issue as many people visit the place every day and dirty it. With the ASI having a major fund crunch, this move will create a cultural impetus,” he said, adding, “Even the AP CM is doing it at the Kurnool fort, which is a very encouraging move,” he added.

Another heritage expert, Sajjad Shahid, said, “People are reconnecting with heritage. The ASI must monitor the work and ensure no damage. One must be careful while leveling or carrying out repair work. There must be no wear and tear to the monument.”