Looking at Bandstand in Lalbagh, Bengalur, after being dismantled on Tuesday. | Photo Credit: K. Murali Kumar
Bandstand, an iconic wooden structure in the Botanical Garden of Lalbagag with a history of more than 150 years, has now been dismantled, months after the structure developed cracks due to weather factors.
The Gardening Department was established by an expert chairman of the environmentalist and Yellappa Reddy to supervise the renewal and renovation work of the structure. The committee also consists of officials of the horticultural department, department of public works (PWD), Academy of Karnataka Shilpakala, Department of Archeology, Museums and Heritage and Scientists from the Institute of Science and Technology (IWST).
“As it is a structure with historical significance, we perform its restoration in almost the same way as the ancient temples are restored. The structure has currently been dismantled by Indian national confidence for art and cultural heritage (Intach) according to the expert who met three times.
Looking at Bandstand in Lalbagh, Bengalur, after being dismantled on Tuesday. | Photo Credit: K. Murali Kumar
IWST experts and Archaeological survey of India (probably) visit Lalbagag to expand the dismantled wood into “usable” and “unusual” categories. “They will perform several tests such as a pressure test, among other things, and decide which pieces can be reused. Based on their observation, they will give us an estimate of how many teak wood and other materials are necessary for restoration, which will then be submitted to the Directorate and the Minister of Gardening for approval.”
Bandstand in Lalbagh was established by the British in 1870 and has since hosted many military and police bands playing there. The wooden structure consisted of wooden columns, seating and art roof, was restored in 2004.
Until August 15
Mr. Reddy, who chairs the expert committee, said that work on Bandstand is expected to end up on August 3rd August on the Flower Show Independence Day. The area that surrounds it has currently been included in the public to avoid injuries or any accidents.
“Given that the recovery is a technical process and requires the purchase of specific materials, it can take longer than we expect. From now on, we plan to prepare it within 15 August. Although this is not possible, we will try to finish it at the best possible time,” Reddy said.
When asked what to do to maintain the inheritance of the band’s standing stand, he said, “We will integrate new materials wherever it is necessary for durability. Because Lalbaggh is a place visited, such as regular pedestrians, flower visitors, and even miscreatis.
Published – 1 July 2025 9:26
