Preserving Heritage: Concerns Over Cattle Tied Near Gangadhar Kelkar's Samadhi in Pune

Original: Fearing Kelkar’s samadhi being turned into a cowshed, family urges Puneites to preserve heritage

The Indian Express•Apr 6, 20263 min

In a Nutshell

The family of Gangadhar Kelkar, who founded the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum in Pune, is urging local authorities to protect his samadhi, built in 1928, from being misused as a cowshed. Dr. Shrikant Kelkar, his grandson, has raised concerns about repeated encroachments and calls for preservation of this heritage site.

Key Points

01Gangadhar Kelkar's samadhi, built in 1928, is facing misuse as a cowshed.
02Dr. Shrikant Kelkar has repeatedly urged Pune Municipal Corporation to take action.
03The samadhi features significant architectural and artistic elements, including a Shiva lingam.
04Attempts have been made to convert the site into a temple and misuse it for cattle.
05The Kelkar family is advocating for the preservation of this important heritage site.

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Full Summary

The samadhi of Gangadhar Kelkar, located near the Omkareshwar Temple in Pune, is facing misuse as locals reportedly tie cattle nearby, turning the area into a cowshed. Built in 1928, this memorial is a significant example of architectural heritage, showcasing artistic elements such as a Shiva lingam and intricate carvings. Dr. Shrikant Kelkar, the grandson of Gangadhar Kelkar, has been vocal about the need for preservation, claiming that despite several applications to the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), no action has been taken. He highlighted that the site has been subject to repeated encroachments, including attempts to convert it into a temple. The Kelkar family has installed a signboard to restore the samadhi's identity and continues to advocate for its protection, emphasizing Gangadhar Kelkar's commitment to social welfare and education for underprivileged students. The family considers the current encroachments on this historic site as inappropriate and urges the community to help preserve its heritage.

Key Figures

1928

Year the samadhi was built

83

Age of Dr. Shrikant Kelkar

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Why It Matters

The preservation of Gangadhar Kelkar's samadhi is crucial for maintaining Pune's cultural heritage and preventing further encroachments that could diminish its historical significance.

Who is affected

Local residents, heritage conservationists, and visitors to Pune.

What to know

Community members should support the Kelkar family's efforts to preserve the samadhi and report any misuse to local authorities.

FAQ

It is a historic memorial built in 1928, reflecting architectural and artistic heritage, associated with the founder of the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum.

He has urged the Pune Municipal Corporation to take action against the misuse of the site and has submitted several applications for its preservation.

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