Haridwar, March 16 -- The world-famous Chaurasi Kutiya-or 84 igloo huts-known as the Beatles Ashram near Rishikesh in Pauri Garhwal district, is being revamped into a global hub for yoga, meditation, and music, officials said. The redevelopment of the site, formally known as Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, falls under the Smart City Mission. Efforts focus on preserving the historic character of the ashram, nestled amid forested hills along the Ganga. The ashram gained worldwide fame in the late 1960s when members of the legendary British band the Beatles stayed there for nearly two months to practise transcendental meditation under spiritual leader Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Pauri Garhwal district magistrate Swati S Bhadauria said the renovation work aims to maintain the original structure and historical value of the site. "All the igloo-shaped huts are being renovated while ensuring that their original look remains intact. The antiquity of the entire ashram complex is being preserved. A museum is also being developed so that visitors can experience the history of this place," Bhadauria said. She added that old paintings, graffiti, and memorabilia linked to the Beatles' stay are being carefully conserved. This will allow younger visitors to learn about the historic visit and the cultural legacy associated with the ashram. Officials said several facilities are planned, including a bird-watching trail, cafeteria, souvenir shop, and music hall. "The music hall will showcase background music albums, artefacts, books and newspaper reports related to the Beatles' visit, along with graffiti from that period, to recreate the ambience of the late 1960s," Bhadauria said....