Indian Heritage Conservation Projects Shine at UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards 2024

Two Indian heritage conservation projects—the Abathsahayeswarar Temple Conservation Project in Tamil Nadu and the BJPCI Conservation Project in Maharashtra—have garnered global recognition by winning the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation 2024. These projects, celebrated for their commitment to preserving India’s cultural legacy, were among the eight winners selected from the Asia-Pacific region.

The awards, announced by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) on 6 December 2024 at its regional office in Bangkok, Thailand, spotlight the efforts of individuals and organisations dedicated to restoring and conserving heritage sites across the region.

Abathsahayeswarar Temple Conservation Project

The Abathsahayeswarar Temple Conservation Project in Thukkatchi, Tamil Nadu, received the Award of Distinction, recognizing its exemplary efforts to safeguard a historic cultural treasure.

Temple Overview

The Abathsahayeswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Dakshinamurthy (a form of Lord Shiva), is a revered religious site located in Thukkatchi village in the Thiruvarur District of Tamil Nadu. The temple holds historical and spiritual significance, as it is mentioned in the 7th-century Tamil Saivite text ‘Thevaram’ and is one of the Paadal Petra Sthalams (sacred places glorified in Tamil Shaivite literature).

Award-Winning Conservation Efforts

The conservation project was lauded for its innovative use of modern engineering expertise alongside the traditional knowledge of Hindu temple builders, known as sthapathis, to ensure the structural conservation of the temple. This harmonious blend of traditional and modern techniques exemplifies a sustainable approach to heritage preservation, earning the temple the UNESCO Award of Distinction.

BJPCI Conservation Project

The BJPCI Conservation Project in Mumbai, Maharashtra, was honored with the Award of Merit for its restoration work on a historic educational institution.

Historical Significance

The BJPCI (Sir Byramjee Jeejeebhoy Parsee Charitable Institution) school building, constructed in 1908 in Gothic architectural style, has been a cornerstone of education for economically disadvantaged communities in Mumbai. The school was originally established to promote learning among the economically weaker sections of society.

Restoration Work

The restoration of the BJPCI school building was meticulously planned and executed during the school’s two-month summer break. The project preserved the structure’s architectural integrity while adapting it to meet modern safety and usability standards. The effort underscores the importance of maintaining cultural heritage while ensuring its relevance in contemporary contexts.

UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation

About the Awards

Established in 2000, the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation aim to recognize and promote efforts to restore, conserve, and transform structures and buildings of heritage value. The awards celebrate projects that demonstrate excellence in sustainability, technical achievements, and an understanding of the cultural and historical significance of heritage sites.

Selection Process

A seven-member jury of conservation practitioners specializing in architecture, archaeology, and community development evaluated the submissions. The winners were selected based on three main criteria:

1. Understanding of Place: How well the project reflects the cultural and historical context of the site.
2. Technical Achievements: The use of innovative and effective restoration techniques.
3. Sustainability and Impact: The long-term viability and community benefits of the project.

Award Categories and Winners

The 2024 UNESCO Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation include five categories:

1. Award of Excellence (highest honor)
2. Award of Distinction
3. Award of Merit
4. Award for New Design in Heritage Contexts
5. Special Recognition for Sustainable Development

List of 2024 Winners

Award of Excellence:

• Inari-yu Bathhouse Restoration Project, Tokyo, Japan

Award of Distinction:

• Abathsahayeswarar Temple Conservation Project, Thukkatchi, Tamil Nadu
• Gunan Street Historic Block Conservation Project, Yixing, Jiangsu Province, China

Award of Merit:

• BJPCI Conservation Project, Mumbai, India
• Guanyin Hall Teahouse Conservation Project, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
• Helou Pavilion Conservation Project, Shanghai, China
• Observatory Tower Conservation Project, Christchurch, New Zealand

Special Recognition for Sustainable Development:

• Gunan Street Historic Block Conservation Project, Jiangsu Province, China
• Helou Pavilion Conservation Project, Shanghai, China

Award for New Design in Heritage Contexts:

• Rabindhorn Building, Bangkok, Thailand

About UNESCO

Overview

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), founded on 16 November 1945, is a specialized agency of the United Nations. Its mission is to build a culture of peace, eradicate poverty, and promote sustainable development and intercultural dialogue through education, science, culture, communication, and information.

Key Facts

• Headquarters: Paris, France
• Members: 195 Member States and 8 Associate Members

Summary of the News: Indian Heritage Conservation Projects Win UNESCO Awards 2024