Three noteworthy heritage projects from Punjab and Haryana have been recognized with esteemed positions in the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation. These accolades were unveiled on Thursday, marking a celebration of the exceptional endeavours in safeguarding and revitalizing cultural treasures.
UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards: An overview:
The UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation have been recognizing the efforts of public-private initiatives and the private sector in restoring and conserving heritage properties since 2000. These awards celebrate projects that bring cultural treasures back to life and emphasize the importance of preserving a sense of place, technical achievements, and sustainability. They also highlight the role of the private sector in inspiring others to engage in similar conservation projects, which not only restore physical structures but also contribute to cultural and economic enrichment. The awards are expected to continue promoting efforts to safeguard and revitalize cultural heritage, encouraging a commitment to preserving our shared legacy for future generations.
2023 Winners:
1. Rambagh Gate & Ramparts, Amritsar: Award of Excellence:
The Rambagh Gate in Amritsar, Punjab, has been recognized as an exceptional project, being honoured with the esteemed "Award of Excellence." This historically significant three-storied structure, located at the intersection of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s 19th-century city wall and Amritsar’s new city, underwent a meticulous restoration process. The project not only successfully restored the gate to its former grandeur, but also revitalized it into a lively centre that serves as a traditional market, government school, and municipal printing press. UNESCO commended the project for its commitment to preserving the site's historical value, while also promoting inclusivity and actively engaging the community.
(RamBagh Gate, Amritsar)
2. Church of Epiphany, Gurgaon: Award of Merit:
The Church of Epiphany in Gurugram, Haryana, was recently honoured with the prestigious "Award of Merit" for its exceptional bottom-up restoration efforts. The restoration was expertly led by the Church Committee and Parish support, ensuring that the historical significance and functionality of the church were carefully preserved. The project employed a values-based heritage management system, utilizing non-invasive interventions to effectively combat deterioration. As a result, the revitalized church now serves as a remarkable conservation project that is expected to have a beneficial influence on the surrounding region.
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(Church of Epiphany in Gurugram, Haryana)
3. Pipal Haveli, Gurdaspur: Sustainable Development Honours:
Pipal Haveli, located in the charming Nawan Pind Sardaran village of Gurdaspur district, Punjab, has been acknowledged for its commendable efforts in sustainable development. Situated within a historic 'haveli', Pipal Haveli stands as a modern, community-focused, and versatile educational structure built with a strong commitment to sustainability. This project highlights the integration of ecological and traditional construction techniques, demonstrating the positive impact of harmonizing nature and culture for the betterment of the community and its economic growth.
(Entrance of Pipal Haveli, Gurdaspur)
UNESCO's Acknowledgment and Special Recognition for Sustainable Development:
UNESCO has expressed its acknowledgement and special recognition for the commendable efforts made towards sustainable development. After carefully evaluating 48 projects from 8 different countries, the jury specifically commended the impressive urban revitalization achieved at the Rambagh Gate and Ramparts. In addition, the jury also awarded the prestigious Award of Distinction to three projects, including Karnikara Mandapam in Kerala, and the Award of Merit to five projects, such as the Church of Epiphany. Furthermore, a Special Recognition for Sustainable Development was accorded to Pipal Haveli, recognizing its transformative heritage practices that greatly contribute to the wider principles of sustainable development.
(Karnikara Mandapam in Kerala)
Conclusion: Celebrating Heritage, Culture, and Community.
We would like to emphasize the significance of preserving and adapting historic properties. The UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards this year showcase the vital role of cultural conservation in enhancing communities and fostering sustainable development, with a focus on heritage, community, and creativity.
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