The historic core of Nagpur, particularly the Mahal area, represents the remnants of the erstwhile walled city developed during the Gond and further developed during Bhonsale period. While much of its physical fortification has been lost, the underlying urban fabric, architectural typologies, and socio-cultural patterns continue to exist in fragments. Rapid urbanisation, infrastructure interventions, and redevelopment pressures have significantly altered this historic precinct, often without adequate documentation or conservation strategies. This workshop aims to re-examine and reinterpret the historic urban fabric of Mahal through a structured and research-driven approach.

Arcause Spotlight 4.0 | Nagpur Edition brought together 19 enthusiastic participants for an immersive exploration of the Mahal Precinct, the historic core of Nagpur’s erstwhile Walled City. The session saw a diverse mix of students, architects, interior designers, and faculty members, with participants engaging in a guided heritage walk facilitated by Ar. Sandeep Pathe (Studio Sakha). Through documenting architectural and urban transformations and reflecting on the concept of living heritage, participants explored the layered character of Nagpur’s historic core. The workshop concluded with a collaborative mapping activity, encouraging participants to envision ways of preserving and reimagining the precinct for the future. With 34 registrations and 19 participants in attendance, the Nagpur Spotlight offered an engaging learning experience that encouraged participants to observe, document, and think critically about the relationship between heritage, urban transformation, and the future of historic neighbourhoods.

Sandeep Sanjeev Pathe is a Conservation Architect and Designer, currently working as the principal architect for Multidisciplinary studio, ‘Sakha’. He completed his Master’s Degree, in the Architectural Conservation, from School of Planning and Architecture, Bhopal.

He is working on significant conservation projects with archeological and tourism departments of states like Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Goa, Jammu and Kashmir and Maharashtra. He is an active academician and also a profound author, having published a varied range of research papers on heritage, architecture and Culture. He has served as a subcommittee member, outreach program at Council of Architecture (2020-2023)and is the founding committee member of COA socia

Introduction & Context Setting (30–40 mins) Overview of the Walled City of Nagpur, the Mahal precinct, its historic significance, urban evolution, and the concept of living heritage.

Neighbourhood Walk & Observation (60 mins) Guided walk through selected streets, chowks, landmarks, and historic nodes within Mahal. Participants will observe urban form, architectural typologies, public spaces, community activities, and contemporary interventions within the precinct.

Discussion & Knowledge Sharing (20–30 mins) Reflection on observations, identification of heritage assets and challenges, and discussion with the facilitator on conservation, regeneration, and public engagement.

Participant Activity + Reflection (30 mins) Participants will work in small groups and select one observed location, building, street edge, chowk, or public space from the walk

Activity   :  Rediscovering the Forgotten Walled City of Nagpur – Mahal Precinct

Focus      : Bodh  

Duration     : Three Hours

Venue      :   Mahal Precinct, Nagpur

Time        :   10:00 AM