Facade lighting to bring back life of Qila

Warangal: The aura of Kakatiyas still reflects in their structures and sculptures. Even in ruins, they stand tall epitomising the architectural elegance of that era. Even though these structures witness a surge of tourists during the day, they almost wear an abandoned look by the dusk.

The Rs 6 crore facade lighting project taken up by the Kakatiya Urban Development Authority (KUDA) is all set to illuminate the Warangal Qila (Fort), thereby captivating the visitors even in the nights.

The facade light project, initiated with the funds under Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY), is not only metamorphoses the fort but also the townscape surrounding it.

As of now, the tourists could spend a maximum time of an hour or two at the fort, built by the Kakatiyas during the reign of King Ganapati Deva in the 13th century. But with facade lighting coming up at four entrances of rock rampart, Kush Mahal and Ekasila hillock, the visitors will have more time to roam around the fort even after the fall of night. The facade lighting is going to be an added attraction at the fort in addition to the ongoing 'sound and light' shows that depict the history of Kakatiya kings.

The authorities also have plans to multiply the beauty of Kakatiya Kala Thoranams by installing facade lighting. The facade lighting is controlled by the integrated command control centre, it's learnt.

Warangal Urban District Collector Prashanth Jeevan Patil, who recently inspected the works, told the authorities to complete the work on facade lighting by the end of May. He also told the officials to install facade lighting at Padmakshi temple and Gaggilaiahgutta (hillock), where Jainism prospered once upon a time.

"Notwithstanding the rich heritage and unparalleled culture, these structures go dead in the nights. With the installation of facade lighting, the tourist footfall is expected to increase. With the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) providing access to the 10 temples located within the rock rampart area, the visitors can also spend more time in Qila Warangal," Tourism Promotion Officer Kusuma Surya Kiran told The Hans India.

Aravind Arya Pakide, Warangal-based tourism consultant, said: "There is an imperative need to clear the unwanted vegetation grew alongside the 4-kilometer rock rampart due to which many fortification structures have become invisible. "Viewed from afar, these structures in fort Warangal could be a real eye-catcher. It leaves a lasting impression on visitors," Aravind said.