The PWD has recently decided to renovate the Aluva Palace, but the Kerala History Association passed a resolution against this move, citing the renovation would result in loss of the architectural beauty of the 120-year-old palace. City Express explores the significance of the Palace and digs deep into the issue
KOCHI: Even after 55 years, Vayalar Rama Varma’s musical description of Kerala’s largest river Periyar in the movie ‘Bharya’ is still a soulful treat to the Malayali ears. On the banks of this majestic river, stands Aluva Palace built 120 years ago by Travancore king Maharaja Karthika Thirunal Dharma Raja. The architectural wonder was built by the king after being mesmerised by the beauty of the river during a visit. The palace had witnessed many famous battles and holds a cult status in the history. It was used as a wartime headquarter by the kings and many master battle strategies were drawn up here.
The palace was also the favourite summer destination of royalty since it offered a serene atmosphere with its huge gardens and the pristine Periyar lapping the shore. The circular balcony provides a visitor with one of the best views of the river. Visitors even get to tuck in delicacies, especially those served during the times of the kings. The dishes include fresh fish prepared in a unique style.
The palace also counts great leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Prince of Wales and H H Charles among its visitors. This two-storeyed building is an engineering marvel. Built using a special type of timber and different types of metals, the captivating structure is a feast for the eyes. The doors, corridors, windows, staircase and other interior structures look formidable even after all these years. The palace is also rich in curios, showpieces, antique lamps and furniture.The Kerala Tourism Development Corporation owns the palace and it is being used as a guest house. It is frequented by politicians and besides hosting delegates who visit the district.
Ancient v modern:A dissent brews
The Kerala History Association recently passed a resolution against the move to give the palace a makeover.The palace, to which a lot of stories are attached, is all set to undergo a renovation. The renovation will be carried out by the Public Work Department (PWD) under the guidance of the Tourism Department. However, the move to renovate the palace has irked some. The Kerala History Association recently passed a resolution against the move to give the palace a makeover. The association said the renovation will badly affect the architectural style of the palace.
Kerala History Association (KHA), secretary, N Ashok Kumar said many historical monuments lost their grandeur after renovation. “It is our duty to preserve such monuments so that the future generations get to see and learn about the valour of our ancestors,” he said.The executive member of KHA, Jose P George submitted a two-page resolution which highlighted that PWD’s renovation plans will destroy the architectural beauty of the palace. In his report, he alleged the contract for the renovation has been given to a person who has considerable influence in the government. The amount cited is Rs 10 crore. According to the report, the renovation intends to replace the present infrastructure by using Aluminum fabrication. The present roofing is to be changed to an iron ceiling.
PWD executive engineer Regina Beevi N A refuted all the allegations made in the resolution and called them untrue. She said a minor renovation work will be carried out inside the palace and it will be done without altering its architectural style. Lift system will be installed. But there will be no change in the elevation or architectural view, she added. With the two sides making contradicting statements, it is a wait and watch scenario.