The Karnataka government has launched an ambitious restoration project to preserve the historic residence of former chief minister S Nijalingappa in Chitradurga. The property, named Vinaya, is being transformed into a public memorial while maintaining its original architectural design from 1939.
Project Details and Funding
The restoration work carries a budget of Rs 1.2 crore and follows the district administration's acquisition of the property last year for Rs 4.2 crore. The purchase was finalized through a sale agreement executed by the tahsildar on behalf of the governor, marking a significant step in preserving this important piece of Karnataka's political history.
Deputy commissioner T Venkatesh, who recently inspected the site, confirmed that the renovation would carefully preserve the building's traditional structure without altering its original design. "The department of archaeology, museums and heritage is extending support. We have sought technical inputs from their officials," Venkatesh stated.
Traditional Construction Methods
The restoration presents unique challenges due to the building's traditional construction methods. The original structure used a unique mixture of lime, jaggery, aloe vera, and soil - materials commonly employed in historical Indian architecture for their durability and environmental compatibility.
"Reconstructing in the same manner will take more time," the DC explained. "We will decide after consultations with officials from the archaeology, museums and heritage department and Nirmithi Kendra." Nirmithi Kendra has already prepared a detailed project report estimating the cost at Rs 1.2 crore.
Progress and Committee Oversight
Work has already commenced on the project, including replastering, flooring, and electrical installations. Of the allocated funds, Rs 84 lakh has already been released, with Minister for Kannada and culture Shivaraj Tangadagi recently visiting the site and offering suggestions while assuring additional funding if required.
A committee has been formed to ensure the building retains its heritage appearance, which includes Nijalingappa's son among its members. The committee is working to finalize a completion timeline of five to six months for the entire restoration project.
The project represents the culmination of efforts dating back to former chief minister BS Yediyurappa's tenure, when the government initially allotted Rs 5 crore to purchase the property and convert it into a memorial. Progress stalled during subsequent governments as the family later opted to sell the residence, but the current administration has revived the initiative.
Built in 1939 when Nijalingappa was practising law in Chitradurga, the house carries immense historical significance as the home of unified Karnataka's first chief minister. Nijalingappa served two terms as chief minister, later became All India Congress Committee's (AICC) president, and was elected unopposed from Shiggaon in Haveri district. The respected statesman was also a freedom fighter known for occasionally critiquing former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru from within the Congress party.
