0 Preserving the Past, Protecting Our Roots We all know about India’s iconic historic cities like Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, which tend to hog the limelight. But did you know that our incredible country is home to countless lesser-known gems, where age-old heritage is being lovingly preserved against all odds? Get ready to discover the unsung heroes fighting to safeguard India’s living legacy, one dazzling diya and crumbling fort at a time. The Salt-Swept Shores of Gujarat  Let’s kick things off in the coastal heartlands of Gujarat, where an incredible grassroots movement is underway to protect the state’s rich maritime heritage. You’ll be blown away to learn about the local heroes like the Sodha family, who have been tirelessly working to conserve their ancestral naval fort town of Lakhpat for over four decades now. Built way back in the 16th century by the legendary Nawabs of Janjira, this ancient port citadel is a stunning architectural marvel that blends Indian, European, and Islamic styles. Thanks to the efforts of passionate locals, intricate stone carvings and age-old frescoes are being meticulously restored to their former glory.   The Mesmerizing Mural Villages  Shifting gears from Gujarat’s coastline, let’s head inland to the rural heartlands of Shanti Nagar district in Madhya Pradesh. Brace yourselves, art lovers, because you’re about to discover the astonishing “Bhittichitra” (mural) villages where entire hamlet walls are adorned with intricate, larger-than-life artworks. Not only that, but the mind-blowing murals depict vivid scenes from Hindu epics, tribal folklore, and the everyday lives of the indigenous Bhil and Bhilala communities. In these remote villages like Jalakwada and Kehtadha, passionate artists and conservation groups are battling fading paints and the ravages of time to protect these outdoor masterpieces for future generations. The Spiritual Citadel of Orchha Now let’s move east to the oft-overlooked historic town of Orchha in Madhya Pradesh. This former 16th-century capital may be tinier than metro cities, but its ancient forts, palaces, and temples pack one heck of a cultural punch. You’ll be amazed by the herculean efforts of local organizations striving to preserve Orchha’s magnificent Bundela Rajput architecture through careful restoration and maintenance works.  Highlights include the captivating murals within the ornate Raja Mahal palace, the sky-piercing spires of the iconic Chaturbhuj Temple, and the ingeniously designed Jahangir Mahal built to counter the region’s sweltering summers. Thanks to their tireless campaigning, this petite wonderland is finally starting to get its long-overdue national recognition. The Desert Kingdom’s Lost Glories Last but definitely not least, let’s head to the sun-baked realms of rural Rajasthan, where forgotten marvels like the medieval ruins of Khatu and the 10th-century towered city of Kuldhara stand as reminders of the region’s glorious past. Do you know that these forgotten sites were once flourishing settlements that suddenly fell into decline, leaving behind astounding forts, cenotaphs, and heritage Havelis ravaged by centuries of neglect? Well, thanks to the tireless efforts of local heritage clubs, archeological trusts, and passionate individuals, these haunting yet magnificent time-capsule sites are slowly being revived. Work is underway to carefully document and conserve their crumbling splendors before the desert sands erase all traces of their existence.    So there you have it, my friends, a glimpse into the inspiring world of heritage conservation warriors protecting India’s unsung historic wonders. From the coastal marvels of Gujarat to the rural art hubs of Madhya Pradesh and the forgotten desert citadels of Rajasthan, their hard work ensures our vibrant living legacy endures for generations to come. The next time you’re bitten by the travel bug, why not ditch the beaten path and discover these real-life gems for yourself? After all, preserving our past is the key to cherishing our future.