Restored to Old Glory: The First ‘Sabha Open House’ and a Living Heritage Space
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| Damaged Chaturveda Siddantha Sabha School deccanherald.com |
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| Chaturveda Siddantha Sabha School deccanherald.com |
Restored after decades of neglect, the 160-year-old architectural landmark on Kamaraj Road in Bengaluru stands today as a powerful symbol of heritage conservation and cultural revival. Originally known as the Chaturveda Siddantha Sabha School, the imposing structure—once a centre of traditional learning—has been carefully brought back to life through extensive restoration efforts, giving it renewed relevance in the contemporary cultural landscape. The restored structure with original architecture (Madras terrace, both pitched and flat roof top)following old traditional methods and lime mortar was used to fix the terrace over the solid wooden beams and wooden rafters.Skilled carpenters from Kerala were brought in to fix the Dutch windows that give a new look.
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| Chaturveda Siddantha Sabha School homegrown.co.in |
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| Chaturveda Siddantha Sabha School homegrown.co.in |
Built in the mid-19th century, the building reflects the robust yet graceful architectural vocabulary of the colonial period. Its spacious halls, tall pitall (brass-clad) pillars, high ceilings and large wooden windows were designed to allow light, ventilation and community gatherings long before modern architectural solutions existed. Thick masonry walls and finely crafted timber elements speak of skilled workmanship and the use of durable local materials. The symmetry of the layout and the openness of the interiors made the structure ideal for assemblies, debates and scholarly exchange—functions it is once again ready to serve.
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| CSS School,Bengaluru homegrown.co.in |
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| Chaturveda Siddantha Sabha School deccanherald.com |
The upcoming first ‘Sabha Open House’, scheduled for April 12 and 13, marks a historic moment in the building’s long journey. For the first time since its restoration, the public will be invited to experience the space as a vibrant cultural venue. The Open House is envisioned as a platform for art enthusiasts, historians and citizens to engage with the building not merely as a monument, but as a living space for dialogue, exhibitions and performances.
Latest restoration work has focused on retaining authenticity while ensuring structural safety and usability. Original wooden windows have been preserved, damaged pillars strengthened, and the halls adapted to host cultural events without compromising heritage value. Importantly, the initiative underscores a growing recognition that historic buildings must be integrated into modern civic life to survive meaningfully.
The ‘Sabha Open House’ thus represents more than an event—it signals a renewed commitment to heritage-led urban renewal. By opening its doors once again, the Chaturveda Siddantha Sabha building reclaims its role as a gathering place for ideas, creativity and community, bridging Bengaluru’s past with its cultural present.
https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/restored-to-old-glory-160-yr-old-architectural-marvel-gets-ready-to-host-art-enthusiasts-3458592
K. N. Jayaraman
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