Dehradun: The beating heart of Dehradun – the iconic Town Hall, fondly known as Jugmindar Hall – is all set to get a spectacular makeover. Located right opposite the landmark Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar), this century-old heritage complex will soon emerge as the city’s most modern and grand cultural centre.

The Dehradun Municipal Corporation has launched an ambitious ₹2.30 crore renovation project on war footing. Work is progressing at such a rapid pace that residents will witness the transformed splendour of the complex within the next few months.

A Glorious Past, A Vibrant Future

Built in three phases, the Town Hall complex is a living chronicle of Dehradun’s history:

• The oldest structure, completed in 1902, is now 123 years old and still houses the offices of the Mayor, Chief Municipal Officer, and other key administrative wings.
• The adjacent building, constructed in 1937, proudly displays the inscription “Nagar Palika Dehradun” on its walls.
• The crown jewel – the stunning 1938 edifice built by Bhagwan Das Bank Limited in memory of its founder, Lala Jugmindar Das – houses the legendary Jugmindar Hall, where freedom fighters like Pandit Govind Ballabh Pant and Sridev Suman once addressed packed gatherings, and historic municipal decisions were taken.

Declared a freedom struggle landmark, Jugmindar Hall has long been revered by the city’s elders. Previous attempts to restore it – a ₹3.5 crore heritage plan in 2012 and beautification efforts under then-Mayor Dr Vinod Chamoli in 2015 – remained incomplete. Now, under the dynamic leadership of Municipal Commissioner Namami Bansal in 2025, the dream is finally becoming reality.

What’s New: A Perfect Blend of Heritage and Modernity

After renovation, Jugmindar Hall will boast:

• Increased seating capacity from 300 to 450–500
• Fully air-conditioned interiors with state-of-the-art digital sound system and modern lighting
• Exquisite Uttarakhandi wood carvings, Aipan art, and murals crafted from local stone
• Comfortable theatre-style seating, VIP lounge, and green room
• Advanced fire safety systems, CCTV surveillance, disabled-friendly facilities, and lifts
• Traditional Kumaoni-Garhwal architectural façade illuminated with elegant lighting

Affordable Yet Premium

Currently, daily rental ranges between ₹10,000 and ₹16,000. With five-star facilities on offer, a revised tariff is expected, though officials assure that efforts will be made to keep it accessible to the common public. The final decision will be taken in the upcoming corporation board meeting.

A Cultural Beacon for Uttarakhand

“This is not merely municipal property; it is Dehradun’s cultural identity,” said Municipal Commissioner Namami Bansal. “We are preserving our priceless heritage while equipping it with world-class amenities so that for any major cultural event, national conference, or wedding, people will want to book Jugmindar Hall first. Future generations will take pride in Dehradun’s own magnificent Town Hall.”

Once complete, the revitalized complex will not only become a source of local pride but also a must-visit destination for tourists – a timeless fusion of heritage and cutting-edge technology that will make entire Uttarakhand beam with pride.