The century-old Poune Tin Ani Zamindar Bari, a historic palace located in Sherpur Sadar upazila, is now on the verge of ruin.

Constructed by the zamindars (landlords) Satyendra Mohan Chowdhury and his brother Gyanendra Mohan Chowdhury, the palace has a striking architectural design that exudes a rich cultural and aesthetic heritage with Greek influence.

"The palace is estimated to be more than 100 years old. However, exact details regarding when it was established, as well as information about its founders, could not be known," said Advocate Md Akhtaruzzaman, convener of Sherpur Etihash Parishad.

Visiting the palace recently, this correspondent observed that bushes have grown in and around numerous broken structures of the mansion while it lies in an unprotected state.

The entrance of the palace features a staircase with wide steps and decorated columns. The design incorporates wooden windows and ventilation systems under the roof, allowing plenty of light and air to enter the building.

However, lack of maintenance left the structures in a shabby state.

In the southeast corner, there is a "Rang Mahal" (entertainment hall) embellished with floral patterns, which used to host cultural events including dance and music performances. Another part of the palace is called "Shish Mahal", where the zamindar's wife used to reside, said locals.

There are seven ponds and several temples within the palace complex.

The mansion has intricately designed quadrilateral columns, adorned with square-shaped motifs. The interior features a temple with a spacious altar, ornate pillars, and decorative cornices. The walls are finished with plaster made from lime and brick dust. The roof combines traditional iron railings with lime and brick dust casting. In front of the palace lies a pond with a paved ghat, adding to the estate's charm.

At present, the Ministry of Agriculture is in charge of the 42-acre estate, including the palace.

An agricultural training institute has been running on the compound since 1957, said Md Motiuzzaman, principal of the institute.

"The institute's activity began in the palace in 1957. At present, the institute runs in a new building on the compound, while the palace lies unused but is being protected," he added.

Despite the passage of time diminishing some of its original splendour, the Poune Tin Ani Zamindar Bari remains a significant symbol of Sherpur's historical and architectural heritage, said Hakim Babul, a senior journalist and local resident.

"Urgent steps are needed to save the palace from being ruined," he added.

"The Department of Archeology should take measures to restore the palace to keep its history alive for the next generation," said Rafiqul Islam Azhar, joint-secretary of Sherpur Etihash Parishad.

"On numerous occasions, we urged the authorities concerned to take immediate steps to renovate the palace, but no action has been taken yet," he added.

Tarafdar Mahmudur Rahman, deputy commissioner of Sherpur, said he recently visited the palace.

"The palace reflects Sherpur's rich architectural heritage. Steps will be taken regarding the palace's renovation and preservation," he added.

Admitting the importance of the palace as an important archeological site, Afroza Khan Mita, regional director of the DoA (Dhaka and Mymensingh), said the site is yet to be enlisted with the department.

"We will work in this regard gradually to make sure the palace is preserved," she added.