Heritage Conservation Takes Center Stage In Pune With Launch Of Itihas Katta Initiative
Pune, 3rd May 2023: Pune, a city that boasts of a rich cultural heritage, is home to numerous historical monuments. These monuments, which date back to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj era, Peshwa power and British rule, are an integral part of the city’s history. However, many of them are currently in a state of utter neglect, and this has sparked a movement to preserve and conserve them.
The Itihas Premi Mandal, a collective of social organisations, has launched the Itihas Katta initiative on the occasion of Maharashtra Day. The primary objective of this initiative is to offer a forum where enthusiasts and researchers can express their apprehensions regarding the preservation of historical edifices.
The first event in this series was held in front of the tomb (samadhi) of Shrimant Nanasaheb Peshwa on May 1, and it was attended by historians, writers, and lecturers.
Mohan Shete, an academician and historian, spoke at length about the initiative and announced that it would be held on the first Sunday of every month. The platform would provide an opportunity for young historians, writers, and lecturers to share their thoughts and ideas on the preservation of historical structures.
The inaugural event was graced by the presence of several eminent personalities, including veteran historian Pandurang Balkawade, folk artist Shahir Hemant Raje Mawle, assistant municipal commissioner Suhas Jadhav, and Rotary Club (Shivajinagar) president Dr Mrinal Nerlekar. The speakers at the event threw light on the works of Nana Saheb Peshwa and the construction of Sarasbaug, Hirabaug, Lakdi Pul, and several other monuments during the Peshwa era.
Santosh Satpute, a young writer who has penned Geet Shivayan, captivated the audience by presenting Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s life and history in the form of poetry. He highlighted the significance of historical structures in Pune and stressed the need for their preservation.
Jadhav appreciated the concept of celebrating history and stated that the Nana Saheb Peshwa memorial would be painted, broken steps would be repaired, and electricity supply would be started. The tree plantation drive on the premises is also receiving support from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC).
Swapnil Nahar, the founder of Save Heritage, urged all heritage enthusiasts and researchers to come together to bring about change and conserve monuments. He emphasized that instead of blaming the administration, it was essential to work together towards a common goal.
Chetan Dhotre, founding president of Yuva Spandan, highlighted the fact that there are more than 250 heritage sites in Pune. He urged everyone to take the initiative to preserve and conserve the city’s culture and heritage. His organization would be working tirelessly towards this goal.
Sarang Saraf, the founder of Manuskiche Doot Vyaspeeth, expressed concern over the appalling condition of numerous historical monuments and wadas in the Kasba Peth. Pune University should consider introducing a standalone course on heritage conservation and offering additional credits under the NSS (National Service Scheme) program, he added.
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