September

This Bunga (tower) was built in the 18th century as the lodging of the Ramgarhia family at the Sri Harimandir Sahib complex, and represents a very important period in the Sikh history. The structure is located on the periphery of the parikrama (perimeter causeway) to the south east of Darbar Sahib, easily recognizable by its twin towers that dominate the skyline.

This bunga, along with a series of other bungas, formed an edge of the sacred complex to serve as a fortification for Sri Harimandir Sahib Complex— evident from its fort like appearance and its watch towers. The Bunga consists of three flat-roofed ranges arranged around the sides of a courtyard. The long principal range faces west over the tank towards the shrine.

It has an open colonnaded red sandstone portico, topped by a ‘chajja’ at the centre and small round turrets at the outer angles of the frontage—all marked with bullet holes from the Army invasion of 1984. The conservation works included removal of later period rooms added in the courtyard, removal of accretions, including infill walls, cement plaster, and cement based concrete. The cracks required stitching with structural steel in the arches and vaults.

The terracing needed to be redone in lime based concrete, so as to reintroduce traditional materials and techniques. It is further envisioned as home to a museum of medieval period Sikh history. Contractors: M/S Heritage Conservation Management Services.

Title of Project Ramgarhia Bunga, Sri Harimandir Complex, Amritsar, District Amritsar Owner SGPC Funding Agency SGPC, the preparation of the conservation plan was funded by the Ford Foundation Caretakers SGPC AND community Year of Commencement 2008, conservation plans prepared in 2004-2006 Year of Completion 2010