Kolkata: Academicians, historians and film lovers have approached the West Bengal Heritage Commission to include Nimtita Rajbari in Murshidabad where film Jalsaghar, one of Satyajit Roy's award-winning iconic films was shot.
A letter containing the signatures of more than 100 people has been submitted to the state Heritage Commission requesting it to enlist the building and save it from destruction.
The Nimtita Rajbari was set up over 150 years ago and is situated on the banks of River Bhagirathi where massive erosion is taking place. Many structures situated close to the house have already been washed away. The locals said unless steps are not taken now, the building will have a similar fate.
The Rajbari, a classic example of British architecture, is in shambles. A major portion of the roof has collapsed and the dancing floor on the first floor is in real bad shape. Bushes and trees have grown all over the house. A senior architect who visited the house a few years ago said the building has tilted towards the river. To repair the roof, a lot of money will be required.
But the state Heritage Commission does not have money to repair and restore the huge structure. "The building has enormous historical value and should be preserved," said a member of the state Heritage Commission.
Locals said throughout the year, students of film studies from all over the country and abroad come to the place to have a look at the house where scenes from the famous film were shot. "We take them around and they take photographs. Many foreigners, who are fans of Satyajit Ray come to see the building," said Sudip Basu, a local resident.
Satyajit Ray's famous film Jalsaghar was shot in this building. Based on a story by Tarashankar Bandyopadhyay, the cast included Chabi Biswas, Padma Devi, Tulsi Lahiri, Gangapada Basu among others. The music was done by Ustad Vilayat Khan while two of India's greatest vocalists — Ustad Waheed Khan and Begam Akhtar — lent their voices to two immortal songs in the film.