BHUBANESHWAR, Oct 13 : The historic Durbar Hall of Paralakhemundi Palace, an architectural marvel that played a pivotal role in Odisha’s statehood movement in 1936, is now facing serious threats from environmental degradation and neglect, according to a report released by Matriarch and the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH).
The detailed report, prepared by Conservation Architect Anisa Swain, who recently led a team from Matriarch Architecture and Conservation along with INTACH members to Paralakhemundi, describes the Durbar Hall as an iconic monument symbolising Odia Asmita (identity) that must be preserved, recognized, and celebrated by the State.
Swain said the magnificent Durbar Hall,once alive with royal gatherings and crucial decisions, has played a defining role in shaping the region’s destiny. It served as the nerve centre of political, administrative, and cultural activity, particularly during Odisha’s struggle for statehood.
“It was within this hall that the Parala Maharaja held discussions with British officials and regional nationalist leaders, laying the groundwork for the creation of a separate Odia-speaking province in 1936,” she stated.
Architecturally, the Durbar Hall exhibits a fine blend of Indo-European craftsmanship, featuring ornate walls, grand doorways, and intricately detailed windows.
The walls are adorned with frescoes and floral motifs that reflect both local artistry and European influence, each panel distinct in its design. Large oil paintings depicting royal portraits, mythological scenes, and hunting expeditions, framed in finely carved wooden borders, add to its regal grandeur.
However, the report warns that the structure now stands at a fragile crossroads, bearing the brunt of time, neglect, and environmental stress.
“Restoration is no longer a choice but an urgent necessity,” Swain emphasized, calling for immediate stabilization of the structure, protection of its interiors, and preservation of its cultural significance.
“With a well-planned conservation strategy, this landmark can once again stand proud, not merely as a relic of the past, but as a living monument to the region’s enduring heritage and the legacy of its visionary rulers,” she added.
INTACH Odisha Chapter Convenor Dr. Biswajit Mohanty said the report would soon be submitted to the state government, urging immediate intervention.
“This iconic structure, symbolic of the State’s pride, must be preserved at any cost. Any further delay could prove disastrous, and the structure may collapse,” he warned.
Heritage expert Anil Dhir noted that INTACH has been advocating for the Durbar Hall’s conservation for the past five years and has repeatedly written to the authorities.
“This is a comprehensive expert report. The government should act without delay,” Dhir said.
(UNI)
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