Heritage Beku Urges Probe Into Damaged Headstone of Gustav Krumbiegel

Heritage collective Heritage Beku has urged the Bengaluru City Police and the Horticulture Department to launch an investigation into extensive damage discovered on the headstone of renowned landscape architect Gustav Krumbiegel at the Hosur Road Cemetery.

In a formal representation submitted on August 27, the heritage group sought an immediate joint inspection by civic and law enforcement authorities. The inspection is intended to determine the precise cause of the damage, specifically whether it was the result of deliberate vandalism, an accidental impact, or gradual natural wear and tear. The collective asked the police to identify those responsible if an official inquiry establishes that the site was intentionally targeted and vandalised.

In addition to the police investigation, the group appealed directly to the Horticulture Department to treat the matter with urgency and prioritise professional repairs and restoration for the damaged structure. Heritage Beku also requested a copy of the formal inspection report that Lalbagh officials are expected to prepare and submit after carrying out a site visit to the grave, which is located at Gate 1, Plot 6, Row 7, Grave 6 inside the cemetery premises.

Krumbiegel served as an instrumental figure in defining and shaping Bengaluru’s urban landscape, carrying out extensive botanical and planning work at the historic Lalbagh Botanical Garden during his career.

Heritage Beku emphasised that safeguarding the landscape architect's grave marker is essential to conserving the city’s shared cultural heritage and paying proper respect to a foundational figure in Bengaluru’s horticultural history.