Open Letter to Satinder Sartaj Raises Concerns Over Heritage Misuse at Shimla’s Ridge

Shimla, January 3, 2025: Renowned Sufi singer Satinder Sartaj’s mesmerizing performance on the Ridge in Shimla last night has sparked a debate about heritage preservation.

Tikender Panwar, the former Deputy Mayor of Shimla, penned an open letter to the artist, appreciating his musical prowess while expressing concerns over the event's venue and its implications.

In the letter, Panwar congratulated Sartaj for his exceptional performance and acknowledged his deep connection to the historic and spiritual essence of Sufi music. However, he highlighted that the Ridge, a historic site, and home to the 140-year-old Ridge Water Tank, is a sensitive and protected area.

“The Ridge Water Tank is not only a heritage site but also a disaster-prone area. Hosting such large-scale events here risks both heritage and public safety,” Panwar stated. He also pointed out that the statues of national leaders—Mahatma Gandhi, Indira Gandhi, and Atal Bihari Vajpayee—were obscured by the stage and stalls set up for the event.

Panwar emphasized that Sartaj, as a performer, might not have been aware of the implications of using such a venue. “This is not just about one event but about respecting and preserving the cultural and built heritage of this historic town,” he wrote.

Calling for collective action, Panwar urged Sartaj and his team to consider the cultural and heritage sensitivities of venues in the future. “The Ridge is not suitable for such events. Voices must unite to protect all forms of heritage—be it built or performing,” he concluded.

The open letter underscores the growing need to balance cultural celebrations with heritage preservation. While Sartaj’s performance enthralled the audience, the choice of venue has opened up broader questions about the management of historic spaces.