VIRUPAKSHA TEMPLE
1. Context
Recent, Heavy rains caused damage to a portion of the Virupaksha temple complex at Hampi, a historical site in Karnataka. The damaged area is the temple's pavilion, known as the saalu mantap. Conservationists have expressed concern about the incident and the need for continued protection and preservation efforts at the site.
2. Historical Significance of the Virupaksha Temple
3. Causes of the Virupaksha Temple Pavilion Collapse
- The collapse of the Virupaksha temple pavilion was attributed to the deteriorating condition of its stone pillars.
- ASI officials pointed to natural phenomena, particularly prolonged rainfall, as the primary cause of the pillars' deterioration.
- Only three meters of the 19-meter-long pavilion, consisting of four pillars, are damaged due to heavy rain.
- The entire pavilion was set for restoration, and these pillars lacked strong foundations.
- However, as per estimation, thought the pillars would last at least for another four to five years. But it collapsed very early These stone pillars were subject to very heavy rains in the past, and the foundation of the pavilion also lost its strength gradually, leading to the collapse.
.png)
4. Restoration of the Virupaksha Temple by ASI
- The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is undertaking the restoration of the Virupaksha temple, which is one of the 57 monuments in Hampi under its protection.
- Before commencing restoration work, ASI digitally documented all the monuments under its control. The restoration process began in 2019, with the first phase completed between 2019-20 and the second phase between 2022-22. The pavilion was scheduled for restoration at a later stage.
- Following the collapse of a portion of the pavilion, ASI has initiated the dismantling of the entire structure and prioritized restoration work. A committee comprising senior archaeologists, conservationists, and engineers has been formed by the Hampi Circle of ASI to assess the damage and restoration requirements of the monuments. The aim is to protect the monuments and prevent further damage.
- The committee will review and document the monuments to determine the extent of damage and classify repair works as major or minor repairs. A final report detailing the monument's assessment and restoration requirements, along with funding proposals, will be submitted to the Director General of ASI.
5. Challenges in Monument Restoration
- Restoring monuments poses several challenges for ASI officials, including funding limitations, logistical constraints, and a shortage of human resources.
- Despite receiving Rs 8 crore in the last financial year from the Central government for monument restoration in the Kalyan Karnataka region, securing adequate funding remains an ongoing challenge.
- Additionally, the restoration of stone pillars requires sourcing the same type of stone used initially and employing time-consuming traditional methods.
- Restoring the dismantled pavilion will cost approximately Rs 50 lakhs and take three to four months to complete.
- Moreover, broader concerns about the preservation of heritage sites, such as the Virupaksha temple, have been highlighted by UNESCO.
- Constant worship at the temple has led to numerous additions and alterations, while the growth of modern shops, restaurants, and the surrounding bazaar has adversely impacted its setting.
- Furthermore, the asphalting of roads over ancient pathways poses a threat to the site's integrity.
- Managing the tensions between modern uses and heritage preservation requires careful consideration and sensitivity.
6. Way Forward
By implementing the recommendations, all stakeholders can work together to ensure that the Virupaksha temple and the entire Hampi complex are preserved for future generations. This will require a commitment to sustainable practices, innovative solutions, and a collaborative approach that integrates the needs of both the past and the present.
|
For Prelims: Virupaksha Temple, Hampi, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Vijayanagara Empire, Archaeology Survey of India
For Mains:
1. The recent damage to the Virupaksha temple pavilion highlights the challenges of preserving India's rich historical heritage. Discuss the historical significance of the Vijayanagara Empire and the architectural features of the Virupaksha temple. How can a balance be achieved between preserving these monuments and catering to the needs of the local community and tourism? (250 words)
|
|
Previous Year Questions
1. Khajuraho, 'the City of the Gods' a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the name of which was first referred in the 11th century CE by (WBCS Prelims 2021)
A. Ibn Battuta B. Ibn Sina C. Abu Rihan Alberuni D. Omar Khayyam
2. With reference to Indian history, who among the following is a future Buddha, yet to come to save the world? (UPSC 2018)
A. Avalokiteshvara B. Lokesvara C. Maitreya D. Padmapani
3. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, “MahabodhiVihar” is situated in which Indian state? (SSC MTS 2017)
A. Madhya Pradesh B. Himachal Pradesh C. Bihar D. Maharashtra
4. One of the heritage sites according to UNESCO is the_____. (MP Police Constable 2017)
A. Kesavnath Temple at Ujjain B. Bhojapur C. Jahaz Mahal at Mandu D. Khajuraho Monuments
5. Which one among these sites of Madhya Pradesh is NOT declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO? (MP Vyapam Sub-Engineer Electrical 2016)
A. Chanderi, Ashoknagar B. Khajuraho Group of Monuments
C. Buddhist Monuments, Sanchi D. Rock Shelters, Bhimbetka
6. According to Portuguese writer Nuniz, the women in Vijayanagara Empire were experts in which of the following areas? (UPSC 2021)
1. Wrestling
2. Astrology
3. Accounting
4. Soothsaying
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
A. 1, 2, and 3 only B. 1, 3, and 4 only C. 2 and 4 only D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
7. With reference to Indian history, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2022)
1. The Dutch established their factories/warehouses on the east coast on lands granted to them by the Gajapati rulers.
2. Alfonso de Albuquerque captured Goa from the Bijapur Sultanate.
3. The English East India Company established a factory at Madras on a plot of land leased from a representative of the Vijayanagara Empire.
Which of the statements given above is correct?
A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
8. Regarding Indian history, which of the following is/are correct? (UPSC 2021)
1. Arcot Nizamat emerged from Hyderabad state.
2. The Kingdom of Mysore emerged from the Vijayanagara Empire.
3. The kingdom of Rohilkhand was formed from the territories conquered by Ahmad Shah Durrani
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
A. Papers 1 and 2 B. 2 only C. 2 and 3 D. 3 only
Answers: 1-C, 2-C, 3-C, 4-D, 5-A, 6-4, 7-B, 8-B
Mains
1. The rock-cut architecture represents one of the most important sources of our knowledge of early Indian art and history. Discuss. (UPSC 2020)
2. Safeguarding the Indian Art Heritage is the need of the moment. Discuss. (UPSC 2019) |
Source: The Indian Express
