An ambitious proposal submitted to the Union government seeks to digitally revive the archaeological heritage of Bhopal through virtual reality, covering 270 structures. Among these is the 300-year-old Dhai Seedi Mosque, one of the world’s smallest mosques.
Project Details and Scope
Filed under the Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) scheme, the project aims to use augmented reality and virtual reality tools to document and present monuments that are largely outside the Archaeological Survey of India’s protected list. This highlights the urgency of preservation for these lesser-known heritage sites.
Proposal Lead and Objectives
Bhopal-based senior professor Sheetal Sharma, who prepared the proposal, stated that the initiative aims to turn heritage sites into “living lessons” aligned with the National Education Policy 2020. The project will allow users to virtually experience the city’s layered past, spanning from Raja Bhoj’s era to the Begum period and post-Independence.
Three-Phase Approach
The 24-month project follows a three-phase model: spatial mapping, IKS-based analysis, and AR/VR dissemination through apps and classroom tools. It will map temples, mosques, water systems, forts, and trade routes, providing a comprehensive digital archive of Bhopal’s heritage.
This digital revival aims to make history accessible to a wider audience, fostering appreciation and preservation of cultural assets. The proposal underscores the potential of technology in safeguarding archaeological treasures for future generations.
