In the heart of Bengaluru, a slice of the city’s history has come back to life. A 160-year-old Bengaluru heritage building, once forgotten and unused, has now been lovingly restored and repurposed as a vibrant public space for art, culture, and social good.
This transformation is more than just a facelift—it’s a beautiful example of how history and community spirit can come together.
From Legacy to Revival
This 160-year-old Bengaluru heritage building, known as Sabha, was originally built by philanthropist Rao Bahadur Arcot Narrainswamy Mudaliar. It belongs to RBANM’s Educational Charities and had remained unused for over a decade. That was until the Ammini Trust stepped in with a vision in 2022.
The goal? To breathe new life into the building while preserving every bit of its historic charm.
Meticulous Restoration Work
Restoring this architectural gem wasn’t easy. The team was committed to maintaining its authenticity, using traditional materials and techniques. Skilled carpenters worked with lime mortar mixed with jaggery and used teak wood beams to support the classic flat-roofed ‘Madras terrace.’ A second building on the property, known for its sloped roof and rose-shaped windows, also received careful attention.
The biggest challenge? Bengaluru’s high underground water levels. Water damage had taken a toll on the structure, requiring clever drainage systems and reinforcements. This made the entire project 40–50% more expensive than building something new. But the results speak for themselves—Sabha now stands tall as a proud part of Bengaluru’s past and future.
A New Life With a Social Purpose
Today, this 160-year-old Bengaluru heritage building is not just about architecture. It’s about people. Under the management of the Ammini Trust, Sabha is a self-sustaining space hosting cultural events, talks, music, and poetry. It’s also making a real difference—surplus income from the venue supports underprivileged children.
Already, free art classes are being conducted for around sixty children from disadvantaged backgrounds. This heritage space is proving that history can have a meaningful role in shaping the future.
Ed Sheeran Seen Singing on Bengaluru Road, Stopped by Police
A Cultural Landmark for the City
Located on Kamaraj Road, right opposite the Sri Vittoba Temple, Sabha stands as a symbol of Bengaluru’s cultural richness. It’s a reminder that the city’s old buildings aren’t just relics—they can still be useful, beautiful, and impactful.
In a city rapidly losing its open and public spaces, the revival of this 160-year-old Bengaluru heritage building offers hope. It shows what can be done when heritage conservation is matched with a social mission.
This project is already inspiring others across Bengaluru to think about how they can preserve the past while contributing to a better present.
Final Thoughts
The restored Sabha is not just a building—it’s a story of revival, resilience, and community. With its doors open once again, this 160-year-old Bengaluru heritage building is set to become a cherished space for generations to come.
