Bengaluru: Karnataka may soon have a new guardian for its forgotten forts, ancient temples, archaeological sites and museums. In a bid to take its rich heritage beyond Hampi, Pattadakal and Mysuru, the state govt is planning a dedicated foundation to conserve its historical assets while promoting its architecture, folk traditions, literature and cultural heritage on national and international tourism platforms.Seeking to turn its vast and diverse heritage wealth into a bigger tourism draw, Tourism Department has proposed setting up the Karnataka Heritage and Cultural Foundation (KHCF), a dedicated body that will work towards the systematic conservation of historical monuments, archaeological sites, museums and other cultural assets.The proposal, prepared by Department of Archaeology, Museums and Heritage, is expected to be placed before the state cabinet shortly, Tourism and Energy minister KJ George said. Envisioned as more than just a conservation mechanism, the foundation is expected to bring together govt, private sector and the public to develop heritage sites as sustainable tourism and cultural destinations while ensuring that their historical character is preserved.“Our monuments are not merely stones and structures; they are living witnesses to our history, art and identity. Along with conserving them, we must take Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage to the world. We intend to create this foundation as a new model that brings together CSR organisations, NRIs, the global Kannadiga community and the public in support of govt’s efforts,” the minister said.
Panoramic view of the historic Chitradurga Fort overlooking Lal Batheri and Nellikayi Siddappa Betta in Karnataka.
The move comes in the wake of the positive response to the state’s ‘Adopt a Monument’ initiative. The foundation is expected to provide a more structured framework for individuals, companies and organisations to participate in the conservation, restoration and infrastructure development of monuments of their choice.A survey covering 239 taluks across Karnataka has identified nearly one lakh historical monuments and archaeological sites, highlighting both the scale of the state’s heritage wealth and the challenge of maintaining it. With thousands of sites spread across the state, govt believes a sustainable funding mechanism is essential for their long-term conservation.“Considering the scale and diversity of historical monuments spread across Karnataka, there is a need to create long-term resources for conservation through a shared responsibility between govt and society. KHCF is envisaged to provide donors with a structured mechanism to directly support sites of their interest, while ensuring clear and transparent systems for financial management and project implementation,” said Ram Prasath Manohar, IAS, Secretary, Tourism Department.
Aerial view of the 7th-8th century Pattadakal Temple Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, on the banks of the Malaprabha River in Bagalkot district, Karnataka.
The proposed KHCF will seek contributions from corporates through CSR funding, Non-Resident Indians and members of the public. The mechanism will allow donors to support the conservation and development of specific monuments, archaeological sites or museums of their choice.Besides, the govt is also looking to tap the global Kannada community by encouraging Kannadigas living abroad to contribute towards heritage sites of their choice and participate in cultural programmes, exchange initiatives and promotional activities. The initiative could effectively turn them into ‘cultural ambassadors of Karnataka’.
