In October 2023, as a Keynote Speaker, I had the privilege of addressing an enthusiastic audience of mostly researchers, graduate and undergraduate students at the 'Heritage and its Dimensions' training course, an initiative jointly organized by Gautam Buddha University and CSIR-CBRI Roorkee. This five-day event was fertile ground for exploring the integration of advanced technologies into heritage conservation, particularly focusing on how these tools can be used by the hertiage pactitioners and also have the potential to empower marginalized communities in South Asia to autonomously manage and interpret their cultural heritage.

My lecture delved into the empowerment of local communities by providing them with the means to alternatively manage and interpret their cultural heritage on their terms, aligning with the concept of 'heritage from below'—for recognizing and uplifting the narratives and practices. However, as it was a training session, I conducted a short practical session by the end of the lecture, focusing on how technologies can transform heritage conservation into a more inclusive and dynamic field. By employing these tools, we not only democratize access to heritage resources but also revitalize our engagement with history, transforming it into a dynamic dialogue that honors and reflects diverse cultural identities. From an academic standpoint, virtual heritage has the scope to accommodate plurality and subjective interpretation.

A critical aspect of the discussion was how these technologies support the narratives of marginalized and indigenous communities, thus contributing to the decolonization of heritage conservation. These interactive tools allow for the creation of detailed, accessible, and non-invasive methods to document and preserve cultural artifacts, which are vital both for restoring historical structures and for enhancing public engagement through digital platforms like virtual tours and digital museums.

To further this discourse and provide practical insights, I shared a booklet. This document serves as a beginners' guide for researchers and practitioners, outlining structured methods to integrate technology thoughtfully and innovatively into heritage conservation. This resource is designed to inspire further research and application, positioning participants at the forefront of a transformative movement in cultural heritage conservation.

Revolutionizing Heritage Conservation Through Photogrammetry: Sharing a Supplementary Guide

Photogrammetry, the science of making measurements from photographs, is particularly transformative for the field of heritage conservation. This technique allows for the creation of detailed three-dimensional models from two-dimensional photographs, offering an immersive exploration of an object’s structure and intricate details without risking the physical integrity of the actual artifact. During the course, I shared insights into how photogrammetry serves as a non-invasive, detailed, and highly accessible method for documenting and preserving cultural artifacts that are often delicate and irreplaceable.

The process begins with the meticulous capture of overlapping images of the heritage object from various angles, ensuring a comprehensive digital representation. These images are then stitched together using sophisticated software to create precise 3D models. This method not only ensures the physical preservation of artifacts but also facilitates a deeper study and engagement with the heritage through digital means.

The lecture extended beyond technical training to address the significant impact of photogrammetry in real-world heritage conservation scenarios. I shared examples from field applications where photogrammetry has not only aided in the restoration of historical buildings but also enhanced public engagement and academic research. Through virtual tours and digital exhibitions, photogrammetry enables broader public access to remote or fragile heritage sites, thus expanding educational outreach and fostering a greater appreciation of cultural heritage.

The 'Supplementary Learning-Exploration' booklet, distributed to attendees, is a beginners' guide that encapsulates strategies for adopting photogrammetry in various conservation efforts. It ensures that the profound insights and innovative practices discussed during the course catalyze ongoing innovation and application in heritage conservation worldwide. This initiative underscores our collective responsibility to embrace these innovative tools to ensure that heritage conservation not only remains relevant but also evolves into a dynamic and inclusive field in the digital age.