The clean up drive comprised of cleaning the surroundings of a monument known as "Samadhi Sthal" meaning cemetery. The ashes of a leader of "Udasi" culture are buried and a monument is constructed over it for paying respect and remembrance. Udasi is a religious, ascetic sect of Sikhism.
Since more students and volunteers showed up than expected, which is a rather good thing, the gloves fell short. So, some of us lent one of our gloves, so two people could wear a pair of gloves, as each one wore one on their right hand. It was a good sight, seeing so many people working together to protect our heritage.
Pic credits : Been there Doon that
After the clean up drive, the students were divided into two groups, which in turn got to attend a lecture from Mrs. Shipra, Superintendent at the Archaeological Survey Of India. I don't know about the others, but for me, it was certainly a treat to the ears. She told us about the different layers of paintings in different schools. For example, a method called surkhi is used typically in Rajasthani and Garhwal schools of paintings. She told us about different types of damages inflicted on the monuments by either human or natural activities.
A specific question I wanted to ask her was that if the material used is not available, then how is the restoration done. She told me that the material used is analysed in every way possible and then they try to form the same material for the restoration. If the case is as I mentioned above, the material is not available, then the artifact is preserved as it is.
After that, a poster making competition was held. I painted an archway, which was really beautiful.
Overall, today was a day I will remember fondly.
