SHIMLA: Prem Kumar Dhumal, Chief Minister, Thursday inspected the restoration work of the historic Gaiety Theatre to take stock of the progress of the ongoing work being executed by the state government to preserve the rich heritage of the state.

He directed the authorities to ensure that the original Gothic architect of the historical monument was preserved and restoration work carried out strictly as per its original architect. He said that Gaiety was one of the historic buildings of the capital town, which had decayed, with the passage of time and immediate restoration was required. He said that accordingly the state government formulated a plan to undertake the restoration work after carrying detailed study and research work to ascertain that the restoration was done as per its original architecture and style.

Chief Minister said that the Gaiety Theatre had been the centre of cultural activities right from the day it was constructed and renowned artists had performed before the top class audience. He said that prominent among them had been late Shri Prithvi Raj Kapoor, late Shri K.L. Sehgal, late Shri Balraj Sahni etc. and many other internationally renowned artists had exhibited their talent in the Gaiety Theatre. He said that internationally renowned artists had visited the town and performed in the theatre, which had included it the list of best theatres of the world. He said that with the completion of the restoration work the venue would emerge as a centre of cultural activities providing platform to the budding artists of the state to come to the fore.

 Dhumal said that the entire restoration project was estimated to cost over Rs. 12 crore and the state was carrying the work with all precautions by adhering to its original architect by maintaining quality of the construction work. He said that best material was being used and funds would not be any constraint to complete the project and dedicate it to the people of the state, especially artists. He directed the authorities to ensure that the monument was completed not in a haste but given required time to maintain the quality of the work so that it could last long.