It is a matter of pride and joy for lovers of heritage that for the first time a heritage building in Delhi’s Chandni Chowk has been recognized and awarded the UNESCO Asia Pacific Award for Cultural Heritage Conservation 2017.
Senior member of the UNESCO Heritage Awards jury Mr. Duong Haan said, “The conservation of Haveli Dharampura rescued an extraordinary 19th-century residence in old Delhi from years of unsuitable interventions and adapted it for contemporary use as a luxe boutique hotel. The haveli’s original spatial configuration was re-established and ornate architectural elements were carefully restored, returning the building to its former splendour. High-quality workmanship ensured the authentic preservation of the Moghul-era architecture, with dozens of dedicated craftspeople employing traditional materials and construction techniques alongside sensitive modern interventions. A solely private initiative of the Heritage India Foundation, this successful project serves as an inspiration for restoring other historic havelis in the old city, thus contributing to its patron’s long-term vision to revitalize Shahajanabad in all dimensions.”
Speaking on the occasion Vijay Goel said, “This has been possible only due to sheer hardwork spanning six years. We built the haveli from scratch without distorting its original beauty and old-world charm, which continues to entice the visitors.” Goel further stated that no one has ventured into restoring any haveli in the capital with individual efforts and it is a matter of immense pride not only for Haveli Dharampura but Delhi and even the nation for bagging this prestigious award.
Goel further hailed the efforts of his son Siddhant and chief architect behind the restoration process Mr. Kapil Aggarwal for their constant efforts in this project. Goel also stated that the Centre and state governments must ensure certain initiatives and incentives that would enable heritage enthusiasts to take up such projects to safeguard India’s rich heritage. He also mentioned that there are scores of buildings and structures which were once part of the gleaming history of Old Delhi and surrounding areas and the Heritage India Foundation would be happy to guide youngsters who wish to work for the conservation of these structures.
ITC Group of Hotels have set up 2 restaurants in the haveli with 14 rooms and each corner is a reflection of the glorious history and heritage highlighted by the architecture, style, colours and also in the flavours.
Secretary Tourism & Culture Ms. Rashmi Verma, DG ASI Ms. Usha Sharma, Joint Secretary Sh. Suman and Professor Mahavir along with Conservation Team of the School of Planning & Architecture were present during today’s press conference.
