The Newz Radar
SHIMLA: The Himachal Pradesh capital Shimla, a picturesque hill station, now boasts of a captivating addition to its list of attractions—the unveiling of a mesmerising light and sound show at the historic Bantony Castle.
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri inaugurated the show on Tuesday night, located a few metres away from the renowned Scandal Point on the Mall Road.
Bantony Castle, a 129-year-old heritage site, formerly served as the Summer Palace of the Maharaja of Sirmaur. The castle features a double-storey structure constructed in the mock Tudor-style, adorned with a gable roof and mini-towers. The newly introduced light and sound show at Bantony Castle showcases the history of Shimla, the erstwhile summer capital of British India, as well as the rich heritage of the castle itself.
The restoration and renovation of Bantony Castle, which incurred an expenditure of Rs 29 crore, have now resulted in the installation of seating arrangements for up to 70 persons to witness the 30-minute show. The show is presented in Hindi and English, with renowned actor Anupam Kher providing the voiceover. Deputy Chief Minister Agnihotri emphasised the uniqueness of the show, urging both locals and tourists to witness this remarkable spectacle that offers a glimpse into the history of Shimla.
This one-of-its-kind light and sound show employs digital techniques to theatrically present the captivating history of Shimla. Over the years, Bantony Castle has served various purposes, housing government offices, including the state police headquarters and the Employment Exchange. The property spans over 19,436 square metres and includes the main wooden structure, an annexe and sprawling lawns enveloped by dense deodar forests. After a legal battle, the castle was acquired by the state government in 2016, leading to its recent restoration and the introduction of this remarkable light and sound show. It’s now a must-visit attraction for visitors seeking to delve into Shimla’s vibrant past.
