Christ Church in Kamptee, the oldest church in Central India, is a 197-year-old British-era structure now battling neglect and structural decay. As the church approaches its bicentennial in 2028, this heritage monument faces an uncertain future due to the lack of government funding and institutional support.
A Legacy from the East India Company Era:
Established in 1828 and completed in 1832, Christ Church was built by the East India Company to serve British troops stationed at Kamptee, then a prominent military cantonment. Designed by Lieutenant Douglas of the Madras Engineers, it was constructed at a cost of ₹43,679 and could seat 800 worshippers.
However, the region’s unstable black cotton soil led to the building’s foundation sinking within a decade. Large buttresses were added to reinforce the structure—an expensive repair that initially drew criticism from the East India Company’s directors in London.
Architectural Grandeur Still Stands:
Despite the damage, Christ Church remains an architectural marvel. Measuring 160×85 feet, it features an octagonal spire rising 40 feet above the ground. Its cathedral glass windows, antique furniture, and marble plaques dedicated to British officers and soldiers offer a glimpse into colonial-era history.
Neglect and Decay Threaten the Structure:
Today, the structure is in disrepair. The wooden ceiling has collapsed due to white ant infestation, and the original altar has been relocated due to structural instability. Despite being a vital heritage site, Christ Church has never received a single government grant.
“We’ve survived 197 years purely through community donations. There has never been any support from the government or our parent body in Nagpur,” said Noel Joseph, treasurer of Christ Church and a retired government employee who is now overseeing restoration efforts. “It’s a challenge, but also a privilege to be restoring this house of God.”
Christian Cemetery Also in Disrepair:
Just opposite the church lies a Christian cemetery where more than 30 British officers are buried. This too has fallen into neglect. “Only the Commonwealth sends funds to maintain the graves of British officers. That’s the only support we get,” Joseph added.
Call for Urgent Restoration:
Christ Church Kamptee is more than a building; it is a piece of living history and a spiritual symbol for the region. As Nagpur continues to modernize, this heritage church in Kamptee stands as a fragile reminder of the past.
If timely action is not taken, this cultural and historical monument may crumble beyond repair. The question remains—who will step forward to preserve Christ Church for future generations?
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