Jammu Tawi, Dec 6, 2024: The historic Mucho Wale Ram Ji Darbar, a 17th-century temple built by Raja Dhyan Singh, has been facing threats to its unique wall paintings due to ongoing renovation work. Located in the Peer Khoh area of Jammu City, the temple, known for its stone masonry and intricate wall paintings, has become a subject of concern as recent construction activities threaten its cultural heritage.
The temple is renowned for housing a unique deity of Ram and Laxman Ji, both depicted with moustaches, setting it apart from other Ram Temples across India. The intricate wall paintings that adorn the front hall of the temple are considered to be of immense historical value. However, the recent addition of an RCC roof with columns and beams has led to the deterioration of these paintings, with splashes of cement damaging the delicate artwork below.
Currently, renovation work being carried out by the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) has led to proposals to dismantle the heritage walls containing the paintings. This has sparked outrage among heritage activists, who have raised their voices against the destruction of the cultural site.
Thanks to the timely intervention of Hon’ble MLA Jammu East, Yudhvir Sethi, former Corporator Narotam, and other members of the Jammu and Kashmir Government and Administration, the dismantling of the heritage walls has been halted for the time being. The issue highlights the ongoing debate over balancing urban development with the preservation of Jammu’s historical and cultural landmarks.
The Mucho Wale Ram Ji Darbar stands as a symbol of Jammu’s rich heritage, and efforts are now underway to ensure that further damage to its historical value is prevented.
