Mysore/Mysuru: Deputy Commissioner Dr. K.V. Rajendra has emphasised the importance of heritage conservation in Mysuru.

Speaking after inaugurating a workshop for government engineers and contractors recently, he urged them to take conservation guidelines seriously.

The workshop ‘specialities of heritage buildings, their importance, the need and methodology of conserving them’ aimed at providing training for engineers, sculptors and officers. It was organised by the Department of Archaeology, Museums and Heritage at its auditorium in Dasara Exhibition Grounds premises.

The Department of Archaeology, Museums and Heritage has planned to conduct a series of workshops to sensitise engineers on heritage imperatives and seek action plans for their respective areas. The DC said that he also has plans to discuss heritage norms with other relevant authorities. Mysuru’s rich heritage, reflected in its historic buildings, deserves preservation, even as the city continues to evolve, he noted.

The Deputy Commissioner called upon those in administrative roles to grasp the significance of preserving Mysuru’s cultural legacy. “Mysuru’s streets, steeped in history, evoke a sense of heritage. Striking a balance between commercial development and safeguarding our architectural past is crucial,” he said. When approving licenses, city engineers should harmonise heritage requirements, maintaining uniformity in façades within notified heritage zones, he added.

“In Mysuru, along with Government-owned buildings, there are also private heritage buildings. Their preservation requires careful management. Alongside conveying traditional values to the people, it is essential to maintain a good reputation for the city and the State. We have a concept called ‘Pink City’ here, which dictates the colour used for these buildings,” the DC Dr. Rajendra said.

A. Devaraj, Commissioner of the Department of Archaeology, Museums and Heritage, highlighted the impressive number of protected heritage sites in Karnataka — 844, the highest among Indian states. Mysuru, with its abundance of heritage structures, plays a significant role in this preservation effort, as many of these historic buildings serve as Government offices.

“Heritage buildings serve as tangible links to the past, providing a glimpse into the history of a city or district. They contribute significantly to the identity and character of a place. The Silver Jubilee Clock Tower, currently under conservation, exemplifies this commitment to preserving our cultural heritage,” he noted.

However, it is disheartening that many heritage structures in Mysuru, often housing Government offices, suffer from neglect and lack proper maintenance. Some are even at risk of collapse. He added that the relevant departments are responsible for taking proactive steps towards their conservation.

Devaraj underscored that even small initiatives — such as addressing leaks or minor repairs — can make a substantial impact. “By involving the offices housed within these historic buildings, we can collectively contribute to their preservation,” he said.

Architect and Conservator Sharath Chandra of Heritage Matters firm made a presentation on conservation of  heritage structures.

Deputy Director of Department of Archaeology, Museums & Heritage C.N. Manjula and AEE Parkesh were present on the occasion.