Apart from the old forts and palaces, India has also many place to explore. It includes some of the old building and structure built during British Colonial rule. The thanas (police station), dak bungalows, jails, railway lines and many other such structures dating back to pre independence are still operational in different parts of India.
One such building is Daltonganj Circuit House built around 1931-32.
A Circuit House is called ‘Circuit’ because in Government and Law terminology Circuit means an ‘Administrative Division’.
During my recent traveling, When I learned that I am going to stay in one such building. I become more curious and excited to explore into the history of these dwellings units. It will be a fascinating journey of discovery of the colonial buildings.
Built for British administrators, the structures represent a unique mix of imperial preferences and economic interests adapted to the hot-humid weather conditions and the availability of raw materials. These building are now turned into a Guest House exclusively for government employees. Later these building were new lease of life through some repair and renovation work. As I discussed with the caretaker of this building mammoth task of baking the over seven lakh pieces of mud plates (semi-cylindrical clay tiles for the roof) needed to ensure that the building’s colonial aesthetic was preserved
The sprawling single-storey structure has a simple symmetrical layout. It has a big lawn in front , wide colonnaded verandahs that insulate the main walls from the heat outside, high ceilings, multiple doors and windows to ensure natural ventilation and light, a coal-fired fireplace.
As we move inside the building, a big hall welcomes us with some.mkdern furniture, that includes cushioned sofas and table. The hall of the house was converted into an art gallery, which exhibits select paintings of artists of the State and also the touris place of the area.
The high ceiling was supported with big walls. Also it has two Pillar on either side of the entrance.
The Pillar does has some engraving at the top which is now painted with golden colour.
A big chandelier is hanging with the ceiling to fill the big empty look
Looking at inside no one would say, it reflect bristish architecture. However there were two important things that gives a glimpse of old British structure. Firstly. The fireplace which is built around one of the wall.
A big wooden plank on top and a Iron grill/chimney at the bottom. A glimpse of the past. These fire places are generally made to keep the room warm.
The other notable things of thr British architecture was the doors. Quite of height and built using one of the finest wooden blocks of that time.
What appears to be a common looking door has a unique bolt to it which does throw you to the old door structure. It s very long and made of iron. You will notice them only in the old structure. Such bolts are not be seen nowadays.
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Even to lock the doors, the door has twoiron rings, which is used to put up the locks. Another insight of the colonial Era.
The interior of the building is nicely set up and maintained. The structure has few big living rooms too which is used for guest accommodation. The rooms were well complimented with bed,sofas,fridge, almirah,mirror and additional laptop table. It has attached washroom. Which is as big as the living room.
My curiosity to explore the colonial building allow me to explore every part of it infact, I made use of my 2 days stays in this building with full exploration of entire compound. It was en enjoyable stay and happy visit to the history. A history of 90 years were to explore.
The good thing is that, these structure is still operational and many guest use it for their comfort and visiti some untold history of this building.
Hope you enjoyed the little trip of this building. A rare piece of old and modern architecture.
