SURVEY OF BRITISH PERIOD DAK-BUNGALOWS IN AZAD JAMMU AND KASHMIR

Abstract

Dak-Bungalows emerged from the 1840s onwards, as a unique blend of European and Indigenous architectural styles, serving as a repository for international communication and trade values from various historical periods. These were built along the postal routes with little variation in size, style, and facilities. Throughout this study, the historical postal and travel infrastructure of Jammu and Kashmir was examined in order to develop a comprehensive understanding. Additionally, the focus of the thesis has been two-fold: it has researched the history and architecture of the Dak-Bungalows from historical and contemporary literature. In order to collect data and to document the remaining Dak- Bungalows in the region of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, a thorough archaeological survey of architecture was conducted in AJ&K, a region rich in ancient culture. The study was elaborated by using a descriptive method. In an analysis of the literature and a field visit, it appears the architecture of the Dak-Bungalows is strikingly similar and the British built them to accommodate their postal and travel needs. Furthermore, they were built on routes that were specific to the postal service. Analysis of the literature and field visit has established an independent argument that the British constructed separate bungalows for postal and travel activities. Dak-Bungalows were constructed on the postal routes and primarily used for postal activities, whereas, bungalows have long been an essential part of travel along main and small roads. Furthermore, the research has provided some similarities and differences between traveler’s bungalows (or government rest houses) and Dak-Bungalows. The Dak-Bungalows have faced many survival challenges after having been neglected by later governments and not being used for a long time and the majority of Dak-Bungalows in South Asia are in a critical condition. These structures are under threat of disappearing before any significant study can be conducted, whereas identifying these structures will be an important part of future research. Dak-Bungalows need to be accepted as cultural heritage and there is a great need to protect their distinctive character.