Mysuru: The information regarding some of the major ancient monuments in Karnataka that map the rise and fall of dynasties will now be accessible for the visually challenged. T Arun Raj, Superintending Archaeologist, Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Bengaluru Circle, after successfully implementing disabled friendly initiative at Tipu Palace in Bengaluru, is replicating the idea with select ancient monuments in Somanathapura in Mysuru and Dariya Daulat in Srirangapatna.
In an effort to disseminate information to visually impaired visitors, the Archaeological Survey of India will put up signs in braille, explaining the cultural and historical significance of the structures at the most visited monument sites in Karnataka. As a pilot project it was done in TIpu Sultan Palace in Bengaluru which was inaugurated on October 2, last year. The project was the brainchild of Arun Raj.
Speaking to Newskarnataka, T Arun Raj said, “Visually challenged people visit many ancient monuments frequently but have to rely on people with sight to read out the information boards to them or hire tour guides. So, after going through their difficulties I decided to come out with this braille signage and special pathway for them. As a pilot project it was taken up at Tipu Palace in Bengaluru. Apart from braille signage, special pathway was also constructed, so that they can easily walk without anybody’s assistance and reach the monument complex. Visually challenged can also feel and touch the ancient monument which is not permitted for the normal people. They are happy now as earlier they could visit the monuments but not see anything. This move not only provides them information but also gives them a greater sense of involvement.”
“We will now gradually extend these information boards to the ancient monuments elsewhere that witness high footfall. The select ancient monuments will have braille signage which carry information about the monuments concerned and also a special pathway. Apart from this we are also planning to set up model of the monument which will be kept at the corner of each monument. The feedbacks received from the visitors ever since the installation of braille signs and special pathway three months ago, has reportedly been very positive and encouraging. Now we are planning to implement it in other prominent ancient monument sites including Dariya Daulat in Srirangapatna, Somanathapura in Mysuru, Chitradurga fort and Halebidu fort. Under ASI, we have 133 ancient monuments while under State Archaeological Department there are nearly 700 ancient monuments. State government should also take up more such disabled friendly initiatives and help them to understand more about ancient monuments. Tourism Minister Priyanka Kharge has shown interest towards implementing the disabled friendly initiatives and sought technical assistance from me. Apart from this to implement this project at 15 prominent ancient monuments in Bengaluru South, I have proposed grants of Rs 5 Crore from the state government”, added Arun who received an award from President Pranab Mukherjee on behalf of ASI during World Disabled Day on December 3.
Visually challenged Uday Kiran, who is a renowned musician and working as Assistant Professor at University of Mysore Fine Arts College said, “It’s really a very good initiative from ASI. Such facilities should be introduced at Mysuru Palace, KRS and Chamundi Hills as well. To know more about the places we were dependent on other individuals. Disabled friendly initiatives are there in foreign countries but it is nice to see them being undertaken in our state. I have seen such initiates in UK and US. I also advise the authorities to introduce tactile mapping of the building as well, which is commonly seen in US and UK.”
