SPOTLIGHT
Uramma Heritage Homes in Anegundi near Hampi is an initiative to involve the local community in conserving the architectural legacy of the region and showcasing its many unique attractions to a global clientele By Sudipta Dev
Cultural kaleidoscope T
wo decades ago as a young art student Shama Pawar first visited Hampi, and thus began her life-long commitment to the land, its culture, and its people. She founded the Kishkinda Trust at the historical village of Anegundi, with an aim to see the local community achieve social and economic empowerment through conservation of their natural, cultural and architectural heritage. Uramma Heritage Homes was set up in 2012 in Anegundi. “Our vision, as always, was to restore and create beautiful heritage properties that are rooted in the unique architectural traditions of the region and yet would provide a high standard of modern comfort for a global audience,” says Shama Pawar, founder and director, Uramma Heritage Homes. She informs that the brand Uramma, has been named in homage to the village goddess and guardian Uramma, “These properties provide a
Shama Pawar
unique combination of rural hospitality and modern amenities. Guests may enjoy and experience the local customs and way of life of the Anegundi settlement,” she adds. Focus on conservation The ministry of tourism, Government of India and also the Government of Karnataka have been supportive of the initiative, avers Pawar. The convener, Hampi-Anegundi
32 FOOD & HOSPITALITY WORLD December 16-31, 2013
Chapter, INTACH, Pawar's vision for Uramma Heritage Homes is to set a benchmark for hospitality and rural tourism in the Hampi World Heritage site through a scalable and replicable model with special emphasis on using local traditional building materials as well as local architectural typology. “Eco friendly systems such as making all our properties a zero plastic zone, putting in place solid waste management systems and planting and maintaining trees have been put into practice. The aim is to create a diverse range of hospitality options that cater to different traveller segments,” she adds. Community engagement is a key factor for the success of such initiatives. At Uramma Heritage Homes all the staff is sourced from the local community and they have been trained as per industry standards. “We also incubate and manage homestay properties owned by local stakeholders, by helping them to market