Purani haveli

<div class="section1"><div class="Normal">Among all heritage buildings being renovated or restored in Ahmedabad, this one is arguably the most unique. For one, it is an exquisite showcase of wooden architecture. Secondly, it is one of India''s oldest surviving <span style="" font-style:="" italic="">haveli</span>. And last, but certainly not the least, this house-temple finds a place in the ''Endangered site'' list drawn up by the World Monument Fund in 2002.Reasons enough why the restoration of the Dwarkadhesh temple complex in Boua-ni-pol area of Raipur Chakla has aroused such curiosity from conservationists and heritage lovers alike.<br /><br />Though a long-drawn procedure dependent on availability of funds, experts believe once restored, the temple can regain its former glory. In fact, the proposal for enlisting it as an endangered site began soon after Ahmedabad made its entry in World Monument Watch''s ''endangered sites'' list in 1998-99.<br /><br />Thereafter this spot was zeroed in for conservation and restoration. "We had sent the proposal for nomination. But soon after, the earthquake struck. A lot of damage was caused to the structure, which is why there was an urgent need to carry out the restoration process," says Debasis Nayak, advisor, AMC heritage cell. The nomination of course, proved to be a huge boost. Subsequent reports and visits later, work began on the 450-year old structure. Around Rs 3,00,000 was contributed by the state archaeology department, while the temple trust raised over Rs 13 lakh through devotees. The sum raised through local sources was then matched by the World Monument Fund and Wilson Challenge Fund, USA which granted nearly Rs 15 lakh. "But the total cost would run into at least a crore. As of now, only the facade has been restored," says Nayak.<br /><br />And a look at the facade with its finely crafted brackets, beams and cornices, speaks volumes for the craftsmanship and architecture practised then. But what makes the Dwarkadheesh temple so unique is that it is not only one of the oldest of its kind, it is also one of the holiest places for members of the Vaishnav sect practising Pushti marg, a system of Bhakti that worships Lord Krishna. Legend has it that the main idol was brought here and worshipped before it was shifted to Kankroli in Rajasthan.<br /><br />Today, the restoration of the facade is nearly over. "We have been careful to stick to the original design," says Jagdish Varma who''s involved in the restoration process. But as Nayak adds, "There are no short-cuts. The whole procedure has to be meticulously planned and scientifically analysed."<br /><br />It would certainly take a long time, but what''s important is that a monument of such value is getting the care it deserves.<br /><span style="" font-style:="" italic="">lekha.menon@timesgroup.com</span></div> </div>