Walking Through Time - The Nagpur Tales Explores Historic Chittaroli
Studio Sakha’s ‘The Nagpur Tales’, in collaboration with MTDC, hosted a heritage walk today (Sunday) at Chittaroli—one of Nagpur’s oldest and most culturally vibrant precincts.
Chittaroli is part of the city’s unique network of ‘Olis’—a term derived from the Marathi word ‘ओळ’ (Ool), meaning ‘line’. Traditionally, an Oli refers to a lane where shops specialize in a specific category of goods. This naming pattern is deeply woven into the fabric of Nagpur’s traditional marketplaces—such as Kirana Oli (groceries), Bartan Oli (utensils), Loha Oli (iron goods), and Chitar Oli (clay modeling and idol making).
Led by Conservation Architect Ar. Sandeep Pathe, the walk was designed not merely as a tour, but as a ‘Heritage Dialogue’—an immersive experience aimed at reconnecting citizens with the city’s living heritage. The walk unfolded across three distinct themes:
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The People – Honouring the legacy of local artisans who have preserved the craft of clay modeling and idol-making for over 270 years.
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The Place – Exploring the distinct architectural styles and dynamic street life that define Chittaroli.
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The Past – Delving into the area's historical roots and evolving cultural identity.
Participants also witnessed the intricate process of Ganesh idol-making—still practiced by generations of artisans in the area. Today, Chittaroli stands not just as a market lane, but as a vibrant testament to Nagpur’s rich artistic and cultural heritage.
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