The historic Chaupal located at Bajain pana of Bahelba village under the Meham subdivision may soon come under the consideration of the Department of Archaeology and Museums, Haryana, in view of its age, cultural significance and distinctive architectural heritage, following a recommendation by the district administration for its preservation and protection.
The initiative is being seen as an important step by the district administration towards safeguarding Haryana’s rural heritage, particularly the traditional chaupal culture that once served as the social and administrative hub of village life.
Rohtak Deputy Commissioner (DC) Sachin Gupta has written to the Director of the Department of Archaeology and Museums Department, Haryana, urging an examination and conservation of the historic structure while highlighting its historical, cultural and architectural importance. According to the communication, a local-level inspection found the chaupal free from encroachment, although visible signs of ageing, deterioration of wall paintings and structural wear were observed.
Bhim Singh, father of Bahelba village Sarpanch Jyoti Rathee, said the chaupal was constructed in 1921 by the village elders using their hard-earned savings. “This is one of the oldest chaupals in our village. Two days ago, district officials visited the site to inspect the chaupal and collect details about its historical and architectural significance,” he added.
Dr Deepak Rathee, another villager, said the chaupal reflected a rural heritage and stood as a symbol of social harmony. “It is a welcome step if the district administration has requested state authorities to ensure its protection and proper restoration,” he added.
Ramphal Chahal, District Development and Panchayat Officer, said the move would help preserve and protect the village’s historic chaupal.
“The chaupal appears to embody an important facet of Haryana’s traditional socio-cultural heritage, featuring distinctive artistic depictions and architectural features reflecting local history, customs and community life. Such heritage assets represent an invaluable part of our collective cultural legacy and merit due attention for their preservation in an appropriate manner,” pointed out the DC.
Gupta further noted that certain repair and maintenance activities were already being undertaken locally for the upkeep of the structure. However, he emphasised that any future restoration work should be carried out under the supervision of experts in archaeology and conservation to ensure that the heritage character of the site remained intact.
“The matter has been referred to the Archaeology and Museums Department for examination of the site’s historical and archaeological significance and for consideration of suitable preservation measures under existing statutory and policy frameworks,” he added.
The DC further underlined the importance of conserving such heritage assets for future generations and sought the department’s personal attention towards ensuring the long-term protection of the historic chaupal.
Earlier, Mukund, Managing Director of the Meham Cooperative Sugar Mills Ltd, also wrote to the DC recommending the conservation of the historic chaupal and suggesting that it be granted state protection under the Haryana Ancient and Historical Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1964.
He further noted that due to inadequate attention and maintenance at the site, signs of natural ageing were now visible, including cracks in the walls, detachment of plaster from walls and roofs, and fading of wall paintings, which had diminished the aesthetic value of the heritage artwork.
“This chaupal aptly depicts local Haryanvi culture and practices, which is visible in eye-captivating paintings on the walls of the chaupal. The painting includes depiction of warriors on horses, trees and flowers, use of hookah by group of men, cultivation through bullock carts, men walking with wooden sticks or p[laying musical instruments, depiction of any army officer (possibly British or local ruler) with a gun commanding a cavalry unit etc,” Mukund stated in the communiqué.
He further mentioned that the roof of the structure was supported by a thick central black pillar. Earlier, this pillar supported wooden beams; however, during recent renovation work carried out by the panchayat, wooden beams were replaced with iron beams in certain portions of the roof.
