In a significant development for heritage conservation, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has made a remarkable discovery at the historic Summer Palace of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in Amritsar. The excavation has successfully revealed the monument's original flooring, constructed with distinctive Lakheri bricks, popularly known as Nanakshahi bricks.
Unearthing Historical Grandeur
The recent excavation work, led by the ASI, focused on a portion of the Summer Palace, which is a centrally protected monument of national importance. The primary find is the original brick flooring, a feature that had been lost for decades. Senior Conservation Assistant of the ASI, Sri Om, confirmed the discovery on Friday, stating that this enhances the immense heritage value of the site.
This discovery is particularly crucial because past preservation efforts saw serious lapses. A large section of this authentic flooring was previously covered with modern bricks, an act that heritage experts condemn as a major blow to the palace's authenticity and a violation of conservation ethics. The current excavation aims to reverse this damage.
Expansion of Excavation and Restoration Plans
The ASI has announced an ambitious plan to extend the excavation to restore the palace's original architectural layout. The next phase will connect the North Gate of the Summer Palace with the South Gate, effectively revealing the complete original plan of the historic structure.
Sri Om detailed that the initial phase will extend up to the museum located within the palace complex. Subsequently, the uncovered heritage flooring will be linked to the South Gate, which also houses the ASI office. "Since this is a protected monument, we have decided to excavate more of the original flooring. Once restored, it can become a major tourist attraction and offer visitors an authentic glimpse into the era of Maharaja Ranjit Singh," he said.
Background of a Jurisdictional Dispute
This conservation initiative comes amid an ongoing dispute between the ASI and the Amritsar Municipal Corporation (AMC). The Summer Palace was recently in the news when the AMC began constructing an RCC retaining wall around the statue of Maharaja Ranjit Singh on the premises.
The ASI strongly objected to this construction, asserting that any activity within the protected area requires its prior approval. The civic body, however, maintained that the ASI had "nothing to do" with the site's maintenance, claiming jurisdiction. The disagreement intensified when the ASI wrote to the police, seeking the registration of an FIR against those responsible for the alleged illegal construction.
Reviving Lost Heritage
Conservationists and historians have welcomed the ASI's excavation project. They believe that restoring the Nanakshahi brick flooring is key to reviving the palace's lost grandeur and, more importantly, restoring its historical integrity. The Summer Palace of Maharaja Ranjit Singh is not just a building; it is a symbol of Punjab's rich history and cultural legacy.
The meticulous work by the ASI promises to peel back the layers of neglect and offer a tangible connection to the era of the legendary Sikh ruler. This project underscores the ongoing efforts to preserve India's monumental heritage for future generations, ensuring that the stories embedded in these structures are not forgotten.
