Architectural Heritage Documentation of Hajo, Assam: A Comprehensive Study
Introduction
The historical town of Hajo, Assam, is a testament to the region's rich cultural and architectural heritage. To document and preserve this invaluable asset, the Department of Architecture, Royal Global University, Guwahati, in collaboration with the North East Zone: ICOMOS India, organized a three-day architectural documentation trip from 1st to 3rd August. This report presents a detailed account of the expedition's objectives, methodologies, and findings.
Methodology
A team of faculty members, including Professor Hari Prasad Agarwal, Er Diksha Dutta, Ar Sumaiyah Begum, and Ar Ritu Rani, accompanied a group of students on the documentation trip. The primary focus was the Hayagribh Madhav Temple, where a comprehensive briefing was conducted by the faculty and Shiv Prasad Sharma, the Doloi (Chairman) of the temple.
Data collection involved a
multi-pronged approach encompassing architectural analysis, boundary
verification, and detailed recording of intricate carvings through sketching,
photography, and video-graph. The team extended their documentation to
Kameshwar Mandir and Bheluhar Ghat, capturing unique architectural features and
local legends. To understand the broader ecological context, interactions with
forest range officials provided valuable insights into the Hajo Reserve Forest.
The documentation also encompassed Poa Mecca and other significant temples,
reflecting the region's diverse religious and cultural landscape.
On the final day, Er Dilip
Changkakoty, an expert member of ICICH and ICTC Associate Member of ICOMOS,
shared his expertise with the students, enriching their understanding of the
site's significance.
Findings and
Analysis
Throughout the trip, students engaged in in-depth architectural studies, contextual analysis, and interviews with local historians and temple caretakers. Daily debriefing sessions facilitated reflection, feedback, and refinement of documentation techniques. The collected data provides a comprehensive understanding of the architectural styles, materials, and construction techniques employed in the region.
The documentation also highlights the
intricate relationship between the built environment and its natural
surroundings, as exemplified by the Hajo Reserve Forest. The diverse religious
and cultural heritage of the region is evident in the architectural styles of
the various temples, showcasing the unique identity of Hajo.
Conclusion
The architectural documentation trip to Hajo has been a fruitful endeavor, providing invaluable data for the preservation and conservation of the region's heritage. The hands-on experience has significantly enhanced the students' skills in architectural documentation and fostered a deep appreciation for Hajo's rich cultural tapestry. This study serves as a foundation for future research and conservation efforts.
Note: This report provides a framework for
a detailed study. Additional sections can be included, such as specific
findings about individual monuments, comparative analysis of architectural
styles, and recommendations for conservation.
Courtesy (Photograph & Video) – Professor
Hari Prasad Agarwal, Royal Global University: Guwahati
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