Heritage walk in bird paradise

VADODARA: From the coins used in Baroda state centuries ago to history of Vishwamitri River and Parsi community in the city, Barodians will be able to see and experience their past as it was. A group of citizens has come together to celebrate the week-long People's Heritage Festival from November 18 to November 26. Nature lovers can watch the migratory birds during the natural heritage walk organized for the first time at Dabhoi's Wadhwana Lake and those having keen interest in heritage structures can choose from a number walks in the city apart from attending seminars and lectures. Also on cards is celebration of the city's 506th year of existence.

The World of Vishwamitri:

An informative exhibition of photographs that documents the river that starts from Pavagadh hill and snakes through its way through the city and flows into the Gulf of Khambat. Art conservator Chandrashekhar Patil has documented the river's different aspects including its crocodiles, the ecology, bridges over it and Chhatris of the Gaekwad rulers.

City's Parsi connection:

An exhibition chronicling the connection of the Parsi community with erstwhile Baroda state has been organized near Parsi Agiyari. Navsari was a part of the state of Baroda and there was a strong connection between Parsis and royal Gaekwads. Dadabhai Navroji started his public life in Baroda state as the dewan to Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1874.

Dinosaurs in Gujarat:

It is believed that dinosaurs had walked on the earth in Gujarat. Environmentalist and author Neelkamal Shah will exhibit images of the Rajasaurus Narmadensis also popularly known as Narmadasaurus whose skeletal remains have been found in India and confirmed by paleontologist Paul Sereno who identified this new species. Also on display will be images and information about site locations and fossil excavation.

Home Museums:

A new concept has been introduced to ensure that citizens having collection of a fascinating array of products can put it on display. The collectors will be display their collection at their homes during particular hours of the day during the heritage week. Those interested in watching the collection ranging from artworks to antique items and historical artefacts can visit the homes.

Walk through city's history:

Heritage lovers can get new perspective about the city and its history by visiting the historic monuments and buildings along with green zones. Several walks have been organized during the week including that at Sayajibaug, M S University, Kala Bhavan, Kirti Mandir, Food Walk and nature walk at Dabhoi's Wadhwana Lake for watching migratory birds.