October

Built in 18th century, Gurudwara Baba Atal Sahib is a 40m (108 ft) high octagonal tower of nine storeys, representing the nine years of the short life of Atal Rai, son of Guru Hargobind. Structurally, it is an octagon within an octagon, with the outer octagon rising to six stories, and the inner a further three. Built with bricks in lime mortar, it has a veneering of marble extending up to 10 feet on the exterior facade.

At upper levels, each face contains a three light oriel window in the Mughal style. The inner octagon has a balcony at the 9th level and is topped with a gilded dome. The structure has several forms of artwork on the ground and first floor, including wall paintings, gilded work, mirror work, embossed metal plates, and decorative marble.

Currently this structure functions as a Gurudwara. The conservation work is presently confined to the two lower floors of the buildings.

It includes removal of the marble panels from the exterior facade to dry out the masonry, which is saturated with water from seepages; removal of the cement plaster and ceramic tiles applied on the interior and their replacement with lime based plasters and renders; and conservation of the wall paintings in the interior of the sanctum santorum and the ceiling of the outer passage. Contractors: M/S Heritage Conservation Management Services.

Title of Project Baba Atal, Sri Harimandir Complex, Amritsar, District Amritsar Owner SGPC AND COMMUNITY Funding Agency Private Donor, the conservation plan was funded by the Ford Foundation Caretakers SGPC AND COMMUNITY Year of Commencement 2009, conservation plans prepared in 2004-2006 Year of Completion 2010