The upcoming Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj in January 2025 promises not only spiritual significance but also a chance to witness the rich cultural heritage of the city. One of the most iconic landmarks, is the 150-year-old building of the Municipal Corporation, is undergoing a renovation. This time visitors and devotees are allowed to experience its historic grandeur in a new light. The building, originally the ‘Great Northern’ hotel built around 1865 during British rule. It has been a prominent part of Prayagraj’s history. Over the years, it was converted […]
Maha Kumbh 2025: A Glimpse of Prayagraj's 150-Year-Old Heritage
The upcoming Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj in January 2025 promises not only spiritual significance but also a chance to witness the rich cultural heritage of the city. One of the most iconic landmarks, is the 150-year-old building of the Municipal Corporation, is undergoing a renovation. This time visitors and devotees are allowed to experience its historic grandeur in a new light.
The building, originally the ‘Great Northern’ hotel built around 1865 during British rule. It has been a prominent part of Prayagraj’s history. Over the years, it was converted into an administrative office by the British government. This was later served as the Municipal Corporation’s headquarters. Now, after over 150 years, this heritage structure is being meticulously restored at cost of Rs 9 crore. This is being done to preserve its legacy.
The renovation work, which is expected to be completed before the Maha Kumbh is not only focused on aesthetic upgrades but also on maintaining the building’s historical and cultural integrity. The Municipal Commissioner, Chandra Mohan Garg, emphasizes that this project aims to conserve a vital piece of Prayagraj’s heritage while presenting it in a way that will fascinate both locals and tourists.
Before India’s independence, this building was a hub for intellectual gatherings. Many prominent figures in the country’s struggle for independence met here. In the 1930s, it was repurposed by the British government as an administrative center. With such a rich history, the building holds immense cultural value. The restoration will highlight the heritage of Prayagraj to the thousands of pilgrims visiting the city for the Maha Kumbh.
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The structure is being renovated using eco-friendly materials, replicating the building’s original construction methods. During its initial construction, the building used sustainable materials like lime, jaggery, lentils, and fenugreek. These materials are being sourced once again to restore the building’s traditional charm. This eco-conscious approach will ensure that the building stays naturally cool, reducing the need for air conditioning and contributing to environmental sustainability.
The renovation team, led by Savani Heritage from Mumbai, is carefully removing modern additions like cement plaster, floor tiles, and windows. The objective is to return the building to its original form. Once the restoration is complete, façade lighting will be installed, giving the building a glowing appearance in the evenings, making it an attraction for visitors during the Kumbh.
This historic building was once home to the Prayagraj Museum, and traces of its past as a cultural center remain. Artifacts and evidence of the museum’s former presence still linger within its walls. This will add another layer of historical significance to the building.
In December 2020, the building’s condition had deteriorated to the point where parts of its roof collapsed. Initially, there were plans to demolish the structure and build something new. However, after consulting the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) in Mumbai and Prayagraj, and other heritage experts, the building was declared a heritage site and the decision was made to preserve it.
The renovation project has been a massive undertaking. Furthermore the renovation is done to ensure that Prayagraj’s rich history and cultural heritage. This heritage will be showcased to the thousands of devotees and tourists who will visit the city during the Maha Kumbh 2025. This effort highlights the city’s dedication to blending the past with the future. This will make the spiritual gathering even more meaningful for all who participate.
