Mangaluru: As part of World Heritage Week, the INTACH Mangaluru Chapter hosted an illuminating talk titled ‘Exploring Mangaluru’s Streets and Place Names through Time’ at the Kodialguthu Centre for Art and Culture. Presented by Niren Jain, Architect and Co-convener of INTACH Mangaluru Chapter, the talk on November 20th unveiled Mangalore’s history using ancient maps, including a French map from 1778 and an undated German map juxtaposed with a current Google Map.
Jain, an avid cyclist, discussed his Smart City project, outlining a cycle route that retraced historical roads and bylanes. Uncovering layers of Mangalore’s past, Jain explored ruins, rebuilt structures, and heritage sites, revealing a city shaped by Portuguese and British influences 300 years ago. He linked present-day names to historical events, providing a rich tapestry of Mangalore’s history.
Beginning in Bunder, Mangalore’s oldest district, Jain highlighted the Persian origin of the term ‘Bunder,’ emphasizing the city’s historical exchange of influences with the West. Notable discoveries included the Kandaka, once a moat around a fort where the current DC office stands, and prominent axis leading to the Jain Basadi and the main town center, now Car Street. Jain’s talk offered a concise yet captivating exploration of Mangalore’s evolution, showcasing its rich historical legacy and intricate connections between past and present.
On 21 Nov, the talk by Caroline D’souza focused on “The heterogeneous layered urbanism of the Old Port of Mangaluru”. The Cultural Landscape of Tulunadu, part of the Konkan Coast, is home to historic ports shaped by unique ecology. Mangaluru, a key port in Karnataka, has facilitated trade for centuries, evolving into a diverse urban center. Influenced by continuous trade, Western Seafarers, and local Tulu communities, the city’s port area reflects a complex history. Today, as part of the Smart Cities Mission, preserving its urban heritage and ecological balance through thoughtful policies is crucial,” she said.
Subhas Basu, INTACH Convener, introduced the speakers and conducted the programme. As a part of World Heritage Week INTACH is hosting an ongoing exhibition on “Udupi Sub-Jail that Survived Demolition Verdict” at the Kodialguthu Centre for Arts and Culture, Kodial Guthu West, Mangaluru. The exhibition is open to the public till 25 Nov, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
