Bengaluru: The tombstone of Gustav Krumbiegel, the legendary landscape architect credited with shaping parts of Lalbagh Botanical Garden, has been found severely damaged at Hosur Road cemetery. Heritage activists have demanded an investigation and immediate restoration.Heritage Beku said the damaged headstone, located at gate 1, plot 6, row 7, grave 6 of the cemetery, represents a significant loss to the city’s cultural and historical heritage. “Krumbiegel’s contributions to Bangalore’s landscape, particularly his iconic design work at Lalbagh, are invaluable to our city’s heritage,” read a letter by the citizens’ group addressed to city police and horticulture department.Heritage Beku group led by Priya Chetty Rajagopal sought a joint inspection by police and horticulture department to ascertain the cause of damage and determine whether it resulted from an accident, natural wear and tear or deliberate vandalism.If vandalism is established, the activists have demanded police investigation to identify those responsible. They also urged horticulture department to undertake urgent professional restoration of the tombstone.The letter said Alyia Krumbiegel, Gustav’s great-granddaughter and core member of Heritage Beku, expressed grief over the damage.
