SMVDU: The School of Architecture and Landscape Design (SoALD) at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU) made a lasting mark at the 3rd Tawi Festival with its pioneering digital presentation of the documentation of Amar Mahal’s architectural splendor. This remarkable digital presentation, “Unraveling the Architectural Grandeur of Amar Mahal,” was delivered by Ar. Aditi Sharma, Assistant Professor, SoALD, SMVDU, whose extensive research on Jammu’s heritage structures infused the study with unparalleled depth and authenticity. The festival, inaugurated by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at the iconic Amar Mahal Palace, also heralded the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the Amar Mahal Museum and Library, commemorating 50 years of its cultural and historical significance. Hosted by the Hari Tara Charitable Trust (HTCT), the event brought together an elite gathering of intellectuals—renowned artists, historians, academicians, literary figures, and policymakers—engaging in profound dialogues on the region’s rich heritage. The occasion was graced by Dr. Karan Singh, former Union Minister and Chairman of HTCT, alongside distinguished trustees, senior officials from the police and civil administration, and other eminent dignitaries. With four months of meticulous effort, students of SoALD, guided by Ar. Aditi Sharma, undertook an exhaustive documentation of Amar Mahal’s architectural intricacies. Their comprehensive study encompassed detailed plans, elevations, sections, and cutting-edge 3D visualizations, shedding light on the palace’s evolution and adaptation through time. The digital presentation was further elevated by an immersive video, offering a dynamic glimpse into the craftsmanship and artistry that define this architectural masterpiece. Ar. Abhiney Gupta, Head of the School of Architecture, played a crucial role in mentoring students through this rigorous endeavor, ensuring a seamless blend of academic excellence and hands-on heritage conservation experience. His leadership fostered a transformative learning environment, empowering students to engage deeply with real-world architectural preservation. Prof. Pragati Kumar, Vice Chancellor of SMVDU, lauded the team’s extraordinary achievement, underscoring the project’s significance in bridging academia and heritage conservation. “This initiative not only enriches our students’ practical knowledge but also serves as a crucial step in preserving our architectural legacy for generations to come,” he remarked. A testament to the enduring grandeur of Dogra heritage, this documentation stands as an invaluable repository of Amar Mahal’s architectural essence—its cultural traditions, historical narratives, and intangible legacy. The project owes its success to the steadfast support of Dr. Jyotsna Singh, The Hari Tara Charitable Trust, and the Amar Mahal Museum & Library, whose collaboration provided students with an unparalleled opportunity to explore, document, and celebrate architectural excellence.SMVDU’s digital presentation at the 3rd Tawi Festival reaffirms its unwavering commitment to heritage conservation and academic distinction, solidifying its role as a torchbearer of architectural education and cultural preservation. Ar. Aditi Sharma, Asst. Prof. School of architecture and landscape design, SMVDU, Katra, delivering a presentation during 3rd Tawi Festival on Unraveling the Architectural Grandeur of Amar Mahal.
