Centuries-old frescoes on verge of collapse

Neeraj Bagga

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, August 4

Over two centuries old Veer Bhan Da Shivala’s frescoes are almost on the verge of fading away into oblivion.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Shivala’s building dates back to the period of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

Experts are of the view that haphazard and unplanned development of the city over a period of time posed a serious threat to heritage. With migratory trends from rural areas, the city is growing to the status of the most vibrant city and metropolitan centre. However, in the frenzy of competing with modern cities its planners forgot to secure its enormous wealth in the shape of heritage.

Rapidly changing city profile, misuse of built space, uncontrolled traffic and unauthorised building activities had damaged the very sanctity of the heritage areas.

Its frescoes of Hindu gods and goddesses depict scenes taken from epics and Puranas. These evoke devotion among visitors.

Besides, a wall painting depicting legendary Sikh ruler seated in his famous golden chair while other courtiers looking at him has also become hazy due to absence of upkeep. It shows popularity of the Maharaja among people of different faiths during his life time.

Frescos and wall paintings are fast disappearing thanks to indifferent approach of its caretakers who are ignorant about their maintenance.

Conservation expert Balvinder Singh said the temple’s architecture record suggested that it was constructed during the lifetime of Maharaja. He said most of wall paintings have faded.

He said there was still hope of revival of those paintings, which are completely lost in case the caretaker has their pictures. Hazy frescoes could be repainted by expert artists with natural colours, which were used during those times.

He said it was high time for proper documentation of the wall paintings and even its architecture.

The city is replete with religious structures containing frescos and wall paintings.