INTACH to focus on Salem's landmarks

“Our efforts will aim at making the younger generation visit the pages of history to know about the significance of such importance landmarks and places around them” - INTACH's co-convener S. Sharavanan

Salem, Tamil Nadu India photo by Mr. Bala Sundram. Photo from the Salem-News.com report: A Hand of Friendship in Salem, India

(SALEM, India The Hindu) - The Salem Chapter of Indian National Trust for Arts and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) has initiated an innovative exercise to provide “better visibility” to the landmarks and signposts of historical and national importance in Salem city.

The exercise began on ‘Salem Day' (Nov. 1) since it was on this day in 1866 the Salem Municipality was formed. Great leaders such as Rajagopalachariyar and Rao Bahadur G. Ramaswamy Mudaliar had served this local body, which had celebrated its centenary in 1966, as its heads.

INTACH hit upon this unique concept when it found many of these important landmarks in a state of neglect. After obtaining necessary permission from the authorities concerned, it has identified the monuments of historical importance and decided to install commemorative plaques near them. “These plaques will have details on the significance of these landmarks. We will also maintain them,” says INTACH's co-convener S. Sharavanan.

The exercise of erecting a plaque began with Rao Bahadur Ramaswamy Mudaliar Memorial lamp post in the city. The post was erected to commemorate the visit of the then Municipal chairman Ramaswamy Mudaliar to London in 1885. Being a munisif, he led a delegation of Indian leaders to England to seek redressal of their grievances against the British Government's Arms Act.

As a member of the Indian National Congress he was instrumental in forming the Madras Mahajana Sabha. He was also the founder editor of Madras Law Journal in 1891. He was elected chairman of the Salem Municipality in 1895. His contribution to society and Salem particularly was immense.

“The commemorative lamp post remained unnoticed for long. Our efforts will aim at making the younger generation visit the pages of history to know about the significance of such importance landmarks and places around them,” Mr. Sharavanan says.

Originally published here: http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/article2620540.ece

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