Trust seeks restoration of heritage at Sainik School

The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) has sought immediate intervention of the state government to preserve the historic Jagatjit Palace, which houses Sainik School, Kapurthala. The INTACH has cited rapid deterioration of the palace structure and artefacts.

Constructed in 1908 by Maharaja Jagatjit Singh, the palace was modelled on the Palace of Versailles and stands as a testament to Punjab’s regal past. The site holds immense architectural and cultural significance, with ornate wall paintings, sculptures and historical relics reflecting the opulence and heritage of the former princely state.

The Punjab chapter of INTACH has expressed concerns that the neglect and lack of maintenance have caused severe damage to the building and its artefacts housed in it. Wall paintings have either faded or coming off. Several rare artefacts are decaying due to years of exposure and inadequate care.

In a letter addressed to the state government, Maj Gen Balwinder Singh (retd), Punjab State Convener of INTACH, called for an urgent action. “Despite conducting three to four assessments in the past, no significant steps have been taken to allocate funds for the restoration work,” he wrote.

“We must immediately reassess the damage and begin the process of restoring cultural treasures before these are lost forever,” he said.

He added that conserving the palace is not just about saving a physical structure; it is about preserving a tangible link to Punjab’s royal legacy and architectural excellence. The Jagatjit Palace serves as an educational and historical resource, offering insights into the cultural, artistic and political history of the region. Its conservation would not only honour the state’s heritage but also instil pride among future generations and promote cultural tourism.

Recognised by UNESCO for its efforts in heritage preservation, INTACH has offered its expertise to undertake the restoration work. “We have proposed signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the state government to collaborate on the conservation of the palace and its artefacts. Our team has the necessary skills and global experience to carry out sensitive restoration work. INTACH is fully committed to reviving the palace and protecting Punjab’s rich cultural heritage,” Singh said. He said they had urged the government to prioritise the conservation of Jagatjit Palace as it was a symbol of the state’s heritage and identity.