Renaissance and Baroque period-inspired window grills and cast-iron railings enhanced the look of the Zamindar palaces in the Bengal region, making the inhabitants feel secure but unconfined. From aesthetics to security, these grilles have evolved over the years and continue to co exist in some homes. These have morphed into prison-like vertical or horizontal bars we see around us today. An assembly line product, more economical perhaps, the same everywhere lacking the distinctive character and style of the days of yore.

Modern living which has made these in- between spaces redundant, with lives closeted in airconditioned rooms with television and internet. Gone are these exotic balustrades maybe due to economic considerations. These are exquisite handcrafted, unique and today these craftspersons are hard to find due to a  lack of opportunity. Let’s bridge this gap to reintroduce beauty, to resurrect the skill of the human beings. Hand-made and sustainable. Lets bring back old times.

#ownthepast #verandahs #grills #jawharsircar