Jammu: A heritage complex housing a cafeteria, a library, a 12D theatre and an entertainment hub for children is now open for visitors at the historic Mubarak Mandi Palace here, marking a significant step towards transforming the iconic Dogra-era site into a major cultural and tourism destination.
Mubarak Mandi, a palace complex located in the heart of the old walled city of Jammu, served as the principal seat of the Dogra dynasty, which ruled the erstwhile princely state of Jammu and Kashmir until the mid-20th century. Construction of the sprawling complex began in 1824 and continued over several decades.
The ‘Royal Legacy’ complex project, developed under the Jammu Smart City initiative of the Union territory government and supervised by the Mubarak Mandi Jammu Heritage Society, undertook extensive renovation and restoration works to preserve the traditional Dogra architecture and historical essence of the expansive palace.
“The facility features an open-courtyard library, a first-of-its-kind theatre, indoor and outdoor dining areas with a seating capacity of around 150 guests, and a heritage-themed ambience aimed at offering visitors a royal experience while retaining the grandeur of the palace complex,” General Manager Shiv Kumar said.
Elaborating on the heritage complex, Kumar said the initiative is aimed at popularising the Dogra legacy, culture and cuisine, while creating a complete family tourism destination.
The attached library has been dedicated exclusively to the history, culture and heritage of Jammu and Kashmir, enabling visitors to explore the region’s evolution, rulers, leaders and major historical developments in a heritage setting.
“The library focuses extensively on Dogra culture, heritage and history. Visitors, especially children, can learn about Dogra traditions, and the various battles and historical events associated with the region. It offers an opportunity to study and understand our rich cultural legacy,” he said.
Kumar said gaming and recreational facilities have come up to specifically cater to children.
“One of the biggest attractions is the 12D theatre, the first of its kind in Jammu. Entire families can come here and enjoy the experience together,” he said. According to him, visitors can read and study historical material, watch animated and educational movies, and enjoy a range of entertainment activities while learning about the region’s rich heritage.
Located adjacent to the facility is the Dogra Art Museum, which houses ancient and medieval artefacts, manuscripts, paintings, weapons and other items associated with the history of Jammu and Kashmir and the Dogra rulers.
Kumar said authentic Dogra cuisine is a key attraction of the ‘Royal Legacy’ complex.
“While visitors can enjoy a variety of Indian, Chinese and Japanese cuisines, we specialise in the Dogra culinary heritage. Overall, it is a complete family tourism destination where people can enjoy entertainment, learning and legacy cuisine under one roof,” he said.
The interiors of the facility have been adorned with traditional paintings inspired by the renowned Basohli school of art, a celebrated miniature painting traditions of the region.
“The walls have been adorned with traditional paintings inspired by the renowned Basohli art form. These artworks are based on historical themes and have been created to reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region,” Kumar said.
A special team of designers and artists from Delhi were engaged to conceptualise and execute the interiors, a process that took nearly 15 days, with the intricate detailing work itself taking over a week.
“We have made every effort to give the entire facility a distinctive heritage touch. I believe the desired look and ambience have been successfully achieved,” Kumar said.
He said visitors have been appreciating the ambience, taking photographs and spending time exploring the heritage complex.
The project has been developed under a public-private partnership model through a memorandum of understanding between Jammu Smart City Limited and the Mubarak Mandi Jammu Heritage Society.
Officials said a multi-level parking facility near the complex is also under construction to further improve visitor convenience and strengthen tourism infrastructure in the heritage zone.
