OPINION EDITORIAL ON HERITAGE CREATIVE BEATS INTERALIA WIDE ANGLE OTHER VIEW ART SPACE

HERITAGE AT RISK: THE CASE OF POONCH FORT 

In the heart of Poonch, where history lives not just in memory but in stone, stands a monument that once defined the region’s political, cultural, and administrative life. Poonch Fort, which once echoed with authority and movement, today stands in a state of uneasy silence—partially restored, largely neglected, and steadily drifting towards irreversible ruin.

This is not merely the story of a structure falling apart. It is the story of a heritage that is being quietly abandoned, even as it continues to stand in plain sight.

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The Rise of a Hill Kingdom and Its Seat of Power

The origins of Poonch Fort are closely linked with the emergence of Poonch as an important hill principality in the 18th century. Built initially under Raja Abdul Razak Khan and later expanded by Raja Rustam Khan, the fort became the epicentre of governance in the region.

Poonch, historically situated along important routes connecting the plains with the mountainous hinterlands, held both strategic and economic importance. The fort functioned not only as a defensive structure but also as a comprehensive administrative complex. It housed offices, residential quarters, and open courtyards that facilitated governance and social interaction. Even during the Dogra period, the fort continued to serve administrative purposes, remaining relevant well into the modern era.

Architecture That Tells a Story

The architectural character of Poonch Fort reflects a rare blend of Mughal elegance, Sikh influence, and Dogra strength. Its massive fortified walls, arched gateways, and expansive courtyards are not merely structural elements—they are expressions of a layered past.

The layout of interconnected halls and chambers shows thoughtful planning, balancing administrative functionality with residential needs. Even in its present condition, the fort offers glimpses of its past grandeur, standing as a silent........

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