VIRTUAL London Heritages Conference

Abstract

This paper explores the Vokil bench as a critical node in the preservation, interpretation, and conservation of South Canara’s cultural heritage. Emerging during the British colonial era as a utilitarian object in judicial and administrative contexts, the Vokil bench has evolved into a potent symbol of regional identity and memory. By tracing its journey from colonial courtrooms to the verandahs of elite homes and, ultimately, to heritage sites and museums, this study demonstrates how the Vokil bench embodies the layered histories, social negotiations, and material adaptations that define heritage in South Canara. The research situates the Vokil bench within contemporary debates on heritage conservation, highlighting the challenges and opportunities involved in maintaining both its physical integrity and intangible cultural meanings. Drawing on theories of material culture, entangled objects, and living heritage, the paper examines how the bench is not merely a relic of the past but an active participant in ongoing processes of memory-making, identity formation, and community engagement. The study also considers the practical aspects of conserving wooden artifacts in a humid coastal climate, the ethical questions surrounding restoration and display, and the role of local communities in sustaining craft traditions. Ultimately, the Vokil bench is presented as a case study for understanding how everyday objects can become central to heritage discourse, mediating between the demands of historical authenticity, contemporary relevance, and the dynamic life of tradition. Through the lens of the Vokil bench, this paper advocates for an integrated approach to heritage that values both tangible and intangible dimensions, ensuring that the material legacy of South Canara continues to inspire and educate future generations.