A Review On Management Of Heritage: Unveiling Colonial Views And Policies

Abstract

India is a large country with a deep-rooted and respected culture and tradition. It is known for its wide variety of cultural treasures, such as ancient and early historical monuments, temples carved out of rocks, temples with structures, mosques, cathedrals, forts, buildings from the colonial era, and secular and local buildings. The Indian heritage’s distinctiveness is a tale of the different climatic influences, artistic customs, and foreign influences. Every facet of life in the nation is connected to the country's intangible heritage. India's physical characteristics have played a significant role in shaping its history. The Vindhyas Mountain range has created a clear division between the northern and southern areas. From the 3rd century BCE onwards, north India witnessed a continuous invasion by foreign forces, which led to systematic looting of Indian riches throughout the 11th and 12th centuries CE. As a result, there was a substantial depletion of cultural heritage, including religious and non-religious elements, from the ancient and medieval periods. The government must prioritize conservation, seeing it as a responsibility to past and present generations, and for future descendants. Archaeology was expected to create a new wave of passionate efforts and spark interest by publishing and distributing materials to a broad national and worldwide audience. The British acquired dominion over the regions that now comprise the states of Tamil Nadu and West Bengal via the English East India Company. Gradually, many parts of the southern states came under their control. In south India, Madras Presidency, there were notable temple complexes, actively revered and supported by many sections of society. These temples played a crucial role in shaping the region's cultural heritage and were renowned for their architectural significance. The Archaeological Survey of India was first founded in the northern region of India. However, in 1881, a separate branch was established specifically for the southern region of India. Robert Sewell undertook a comprehensive examination of ancient artifacts and subsequently created the first inventory of these artifacts. These lists functioned as authoritative documents to choose monuments to be preserved. In 1885, the government implemented a standardized framework for compiling these lists. This style mandated that district authorities and archaeological officers provide an initial inventory of ancient sites and constructions in their districts. The Madras Presidency faced difficulties while categorizing some sites as 'protected' under the 1904 Act, owing to an asymmetry between religious and secular structures. The trustees or owners were obligated to create a legal agreement with the government, which included the responsibility of adequate upkeep, prohibition of leasing, and refraining from selling the monument or property within a 100-foot radius. Nevertheless, several temples showed reluctance to participate, resulting in their omission from the Act. A conservation plan was implemented in 1907 to save historical sites. The technique classifies monuments into three distinct categories: those in pristine condition, those that may be conserved with minimum restoration, and those at the stage of decay. The archaeological surveyor required engineers from the Public Works Department to submit their cost estimates and building proposals for approval. The archaeology department has exclusive jurisdiction in determining the destruction and subsequent repurposing of antiquated materials. The living monuments were identified as requiring significant restoration based on archaeological considerations, although little activity was seen.