ASI to Repair Dwarapala Sculptures at Thousand Pillar Temple

Hyderabad: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has taken up repair and conservation of the Dwarapala, or guardian, sculptures at the historic Thousand Pillar Temple in Hanamkonda to preserve its sculptural heritage.

The work follows traditional iconometry and iconography to retain the sculptures’ proportions, posture, attributes and stylistic character.

Officials said compatible stone matching the original in colour, texture, grain and physical characteristics was being selected wherever replacement was required.

The stone is carefully shaped to integrate with the existing sculpture.

Garden development and landscaping, including lawn development, planting and improvements to pathways, are also under way to improve the temple’s presentation and visitor experience.

ASI officials Krishna Chaitanya and P. Kishore Kumar Reddy are providing technical guidance, along with conservation assistants Ajith and Mallesh.

The team is headed by superintending archaeologist Dr. Nihil Das N. and includes Kaniyappan from ASI, Chennai.