Sritikothon: A way to revive the lost identity of Puthia Rajbari & Temple Complex

Abstract

In a third-world country like Bangladesh cultural heritage is often perceived as a luxurious and unnecessary event. People in our country are generally unaware of the value of cultural heritage and do not feel the necessity of conservation. So, this lies far behind in the funding policy that results in a poor condition in the cultural and archaeological scenario of the country. But the cultural heritage is the roots of a community as well as for a nation. Conservation of it is very important because it provides a sense of identity and continuity in a fast-changing world. Puthia temple town is a small historic town. For its grandeur and rich history full of myths and legends, this place of a Mughal era zamindar dynasty attracts a lot of tourists, history enthusiasts, and researchers. The area is specific with cultural values, the distinct footprint of lifestyle, especially enveloped, organic, and spread with uncommon neighborhood-fabric. Besides the royal palace, the place holds some of our country's greatest historical and architectural resources. It is a general belief that previously Puthia Rajbari was more vibrant, dynamic, and livable, outdoor spaces were more responsive. What are the ingredients that make the small town or its outdoor and indoor spaces so vibrant? Why this is almost a dead historic site now, though this place has that much potential to bloom to its full extent as an example of enlightening cultural heritage? The project aims to create awareness about cultural heritage safeguarding the tangible heritages of Puthia zamindari, ensure community orientation with intangible means to keep intangible heritages alive, and create a sense of identity and continuity, Sustainability and revitalization of old town integrated with the new concept of present-day requirement.