It’s World Heritage Week! And how many of us even knew? Backed by the Archeological Survey of India, it began on November 19 and concludes on November 25. The aim, of course, is to preserve and protect our rich cultural lineage.

Fatehpur Sikri has attracted throngs of both, domestic and foreign tourists, in its observance of World Heritage Week. The city is home to some of the most attractive buildings including Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid, the Sufi shrine of Khwaja Saleem Chishti, Diwan-i-Am or Hall of Public Audience, Diwan-i-Khas, or Hall of Private Audience, Ibadat Khana: (House of Worship), Anup Talao (an ornamental pool) and Panch Mahal, a five-storied palatial structure. Photo exhibitions and various competitions for children will also take place as part of the celebrations.

In Agra, over 400 schoolchildren participated in a drawing competition on the grounds of the Taj Mahal as part of the celebrations. The students sketched and coloured their impressions of the monument, while putting across a message for its conservation. The event created interest among many of the tourists visiting the Taj, who stopped by to look at the pictures and photograph the participants at work.

The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation has initiated the illumination of historical structures, guided tours, quizzes and cultural heritage programmes as some of the activities this week. The highlight will be a guided tour for about 500 municipal schoolchildren to the City Museum and Sanskar Kendra. Around 70-80 students will be taken on the tour every day for a week.

Young Indians Ludhiana Chapter organised a short excursion trip to Jahangir’s Doraha Fort, with the objective of understanding its historical importance also to capture the scenic beauty of the fort which is perfect for photography.

World Heritage Week  aims at restoration of monuments and preservation of culture so future generations can connect with their history. Are we doing enough?