Telangana: ASI Begins Conservation At Thousand Pillar Temple
A senior ASI official said roofing and other leftover works pending for several months were being taken up: Reports
HYDERABAD: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Hyderabad Circle, has commenced conservation works at the Kakatiya‑era Thousand Pillar Temple in Hanamkonda. The ₹1 crore project includes restoring the southern portico, repairing damaged stone sculptures and landscaping the temple complex.
A senior ASI official said roofing and other leftover works pending for several months were being taken up. The temple’s southern portion will be restored and the surroundings landscaped.
The official said the Dwarapalaka sculptures, part of the Kalyana Mandapam, were also under restoration. The sculptures, measuring around 5.7 feet, had suffered major damage over the years. “We have studied their iconography and experts from Chennai have started the conservation works,” the official said.
The Kalyana Mandapam, which had faced structural damage over the centuries, is part of the last phase of conservation. The ongoing works are expected to be completed by the end of October, while other proposals are awaiting approval from ASI headquarters.
The ASI is also seeking additional land from the state tourism department to provide basic amenities, including washrooms, drinking water and seating areas for visitors, which are currently lacking at the site. A formal NOC is awaited.
The Thousand Pillar Temple, also known as Rudreshwara Temple, was built in 1163 CE by Kakatiya ruler Rudra Deva.
