DK administration plans to preserve 400-year-old district office complex as a museum

The district administration of Dakshina Kannada is planning to preserve the 400-year-old district office complex as a heritage building and develop it into a museum. The tourism department is currently reviewing the proposal to designate the building as a heritage site and has submitted the proposal to the Department of Archaeology, Museums, and Heritage.

Presently, no departments are operating in the main part of the building, except for the offices of the Librarian and the Registration Officer, which are functioning in a small section. Most parts of the building have fallen into disrepair due to lack of maintenance. Despite this, the building, with its centuries-old grandeur, distinctive red-colored design, and unique architectural style, continues to draw attention. However, substantial funding is required to restore it as a heritage structure, and efforts are underway to secure these funds.

If left unattended, the building could collapse completely, with vegetation overtaking the interiors. Therefore, a restoration plan needs to be implemented promptly. Currently, some local office staff use part of the building for parking two-wheelers, but other than that, the building remains largely unused. Historically, this building was constructed as a palace by the Bangarasa rulers of Mangalore and later came under the control of Tipu Sultan. After Tipu Sultan’s death, Major Thomas Munro, the first District Collector of Dakshina Kannada, converted it into his office.

The outer wall of the building has inscriptions commemorating those from the district who participated in the World Wars, and a memorial has been constructed in their honor, highlighting the building’s historical significance. Local artists have also previously suggested developing this artistic building into a permanent art gallery to enhance its cultural value.

“The building is still under our possession and has not been handed over to anyone yet. We have plans to preserve it as a heritage building and convert it into a museum. However, the final execution plan has not been decided. We are seeking input from interested parties on how to proceed,” stated Mullai Mughilan, Deputy Commissioner of Dakshina Kannada.