The Varanasi Heritage Dossier/Rivan Ghat

Detailed description of each heritage Site - Assi Ghat to Pancakota Ghat

Location

25º 17.396’ North and 83º 00.377’ East (centre of Ganga Mahala Ghat)

Historical/cultural/natural significance

A little further down the Ganga Mahal Ghat, an extension was made by adding another palatial house called Rewa Ghat, a royal symbol at the gate opening towards the ghat that can be distinctively marked. This building has two parts: one part of the palace and the other one of the auxiliary house. This ghat was earlier named after Lala Misir, a family priest of the king of Punjab, Raja Ranjit Singh. In 1879, the king of Rivan purchased this and made sufficient repairs. The northern and southern porches are based on the joints of pillars. On both sides, there are stone steps. In 1955, the king of Banaras donated this palace to Banaras Hindu University, which uses it as a dormitory for performance art and music students. During 1985-2000, the ghat was fully covered by the siltation during annual floods. Thanks to an NGO under the direction of Shanti Lal Jain, the silt has been fully recovered, and open space now exists. Some of the tea shops have occupied the area.

Specific measures being taken for conserving the specific property

It is expected that, with the support of active people's participation, awareness to save the age-old rich heritage, and development under the Master Plan (and its judiciary control), the ghat heritage will be protected and conserved for the betterment of society.

Ownership

The Rewa Mahal is owned by the Banaras Hindu University and the Ghat area is owned by the Municipal Corporation.