Why in news? Maharaj Gunj market of Dogra architecture at Jammu and Kashmir gets a revival project

Highlights:

• Srinagar’s Maharaj Gunj market has rare architectural elements introduced in Kashmir by Dogra Hindu kings between 1846 and 1947.
• Srinagar Smart City Limited and the Kashmir chapter of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) together works for the project
• Vernacular elements of Kashmiri architecture, like colonnaded walkways, decorative pilasters, and exposed moulded brickwork are its main architectural features

About Maharaj Gunj Market

• It was established by Maharaja Ranbir Singh to provide fillip to Kashmir’s trade and commerce
• Located in the heart of Shehar-e-Khaas, the interior of Srinagar’s old city on the banks of river Jhelum
• It has a rich mix of vernacular and colonial architecture
• Market once housed Khatri businesspeople, who introduced a trading lifestyle to the city

About Dogra architecture

• Dogra architecture were constructed by Dogra Hindu kings ruled over Jammu from 1846 and 1947

Features

• It will use local materials like wood, stone, and clay.
• Elaborate wooden balconies ,often featuring intricate designs and patterns are a common feature in the construction of temples, palaces, and houses.
• Dogra buildings have sloping roofs designed to withstand heavy snowfall during the winter months.
• It is a mixed amalgation of Hindu, Islamic and Buddhist style of architecture
• This architecture uses of ‘Nanakshahi bricks’ in lime mortar carry magnificent murals