Preserving Submerged Legacies: Institutionalizing Cultural Memory of Old Tehri

The recent administrative approval for the construction of a new Ghantaghar (Clock Tower) and a dedicated museum in Doiwala marks a significant step in the state's efforts to preserve the cultural memory of Old Tehri. The original town of Tehri, a historic seat of the Garhwal Kingdom, was submerged following the construction of the Tehri Dam, a monumental infrastructure project that necessitated the displacement of thousands and the loss of a unique architectural and social landscape. This project is not merely an exercise in civil construction but a policy intervention aimed at 'cultural rehabilitation.' By recreating the iconic Ghantaghar and curating historical artifacts and photographs, the government seeks to bridge the generational gap for the displaced population and their descendants. In the context of post-independence development, large-scale projects like the Tehri Dam often prioritize national energy security at the cost of local heritage and community identity. The Doiwala initiative highlights the growing recognition that developmental progress must be balanced with the preservation of intangible cultural heritage and the history of displaced communities.