Murshidabad Heritage Festival: A city proudly reclaims its past

Calcutta Times headed to Murshidabad for the three-day Murshidabad Heritage Festival 2026 organised by the Murshidabad Heritage Development Society, where history met revival in the most regal way. From cruising along theBhagirathi and wandering through resplendent palaces and museums, to sampling the delicate flavours of Sheherwali cuisine and culture at the House of Sheherwali, the festival offered a glimpse into how a city once fading into memory is being lovingly restored — one palace, one plate, and one passionate effort at a time. Restoring legacy, creating opportunities“For as long as I can remember, I’ve been aware of the legacy of this place,” said Sanjay Doogar, shebait of Kathgola Palace. “What inspired me to restore it is the family tradition, history and tales.” The task was demanding. “Looking for masons who could restore using traditional methods was difficult…. after two to three years I could finally create a team,” he said, urging more people to step forward. Turning rebels into custodiansMurshidabad’s youth once grew up amid fading grandeur, often unaware of the value around them, and some vandalised centuries-old walls. Rather than alienate them, restorers made them partners. “We realised that if they were part of the problem, they had to become part of the solution,” said an organiser. Youngsters were trained as guides and storytellers, joining clean-ups and conservation. “Today, the same hands that once scribbled, now protect them with a sense of ownership that can only be awakened,” added Sandip Nowlakha. “It is important for youngsters to go back to the roots… and keep their heritage relevant,” said Harsh Vardhan Nowlakha. Why adaptive reuse is key to restoration and heritageFor 15 years, the Murshidabad Heritage Festival has driven a cultural comeback for Bengal’s former capital. “The festivals have given a real kick to tourism… it’s a ripple effect,” said Sandip Nowlakha of the Murshidabad Heritage Development Society. “We’ve planted the seeds of resurgence, and we want locals to take pride in their heritage.” Efforts span terracotta, 14 Jain temples, muslin weaving, and traditional events. “Restoration is not easy… retrofitting is equally important,” he said. Sanjay Doogar, shebait of Kathgola Palace, added, “Getting the right expertise for the restoration of the palace was the most difficult part.”Bengal’s regal past in three days It’s a rare experience to see such tradition and authenticity. When you have heritage, culture and tradition, it should be amplified. Every corner of India has little surprises for you– Kavita Khanna Restoration generates employment. I’ve managed to turn many here into entrepreneurs – to be guides and karigars – more than 500 families benefit from this now– Sanjay Doogar Ownership of heritage creates responsibility. I chose to act for this place, its vandalised kothis and temples. The journey was tedious, but belonging meant I could not walk away– Sandip Nowlakha Restoration, to me, is not about nostalgia , it’s about continuity. The Murshidabad Heritage Festival embodies that spirit. Through initiatives like the House of Sheherwali, we’re reviving not just architecture but entire traditions of living and we’re ensuring that this revival is sustainable-Pradip Chopra