Sambalpur: ‘Rajabakhari’, Witness of Freedom Struggle, Set for Restoration
Sambalpur: Rajabakhari, a historic structure built during the 17th century, witnessed significant events during the freedom struggle, hosting leaders like Vir Surendra Sai, who, after being released from the Hazaribagh jail in 1857, came to Sambalpur with 1500 followers and entered this Rajabakhari. During the war with the British, he spent a few days at this palace. The building, comprising 40 rooms and standing as a symbol of Sambalpur’s rich history, is currently set for restoration.
Rajabakhari was built during the time of Chauhan king Chhatra Sai and served as a shelter for independence fighters during the British war. During the Quit India movement, the national flag was raised at this iconic palace.
The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage’s (INTACH) initial project proposal had issues, which caused the restoration efforts to be delayed. A second detailed project report (DPR) is now being prepared and will be presented to the state government for approval. Restoration will begin after all relevant approvals have been received.
Deepak Panda, a historian and INTACH Sambalpur member, mentioned that restoration work is currently underway at the home of Assamese poet Bezbarua, which will be followed by the Rajabakhari project. Meanwhile, local organizations, college students, and cultural institutions are actively involved in a cleanliness campaign in the Rajabakhari area, removing garbage and preserving its historical significance.
Initially proposed for Lady Louise Girls High School’s hostel, public opinion favored the preservation of Rajabakhari. The Gangadhar Meher University Department of History has suggested recognizing it as a heritage site. Rajabakhari, currently abandoned, serves as a quiet witness to Sambalpur’s history and awaits restoration. INTACH is currently attempting to restore Sambalpur’s Ranibakhri, the 1902 Victoria District Hall, and the office and sadhana house of Assamese orator Lakhminath Bezbarua.
