An amazing project at the Konark Sun Temple has been initiated by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in an attempt to bring back the majesty of one of the most renowned ancient structures in India. By transforming the once-plain stones into engaging works of art, this effort hopes to revitalise the ancient location.
Conservation in Motion: Adhering to Revised Policies
Under the framework of the revised National Policy for Conservation of Ancient Monuments, Archaeological Sites, and Remains-2014, ASI’s Puri circle has undertaken the task of embellishing the plain stones adorning the Sun Temple. With meticulous attention to detail, ASI is implementing minimal carvings and mouldings, ensuring compliance with conservation norms.
A Journey Through Time: Evolution of Restoration Efforts
The genesis of this restoration traces back to the mid-1980s when extensive plain stonework was initiated to safeguard the temple from decay. Subsequently, in the 1990s, ASI focused on fortifying the temple’s foundation and meticulously replacing damaged sections with plain stones, thus preserving its structural integrity.
Harmonising Tradition and Innovation: The Decorative Intervention
Dibishidha Garnayak, head of ASI’s Puri circle, elucidates that the current decorative intervention endeavors to seamlessly integrate the new adornments with the temple’s existing architectural marvels. While respecting the sanctity of the original designs, ASI is incorporating floral motifs, geometric patterns, and subtle mouldings onto the plain stones, thereby enhancing the temple’s aesthetic appeal.
Embracing Change: Shifting Conservation Paradigms
The advent of the revised conservation policy in 2014 heralded a paradigm shift, empowering ASI to embark on such creative endeavors. Unlike the stringent mandates of the past, which limited interventions to plain slabs, the contemporary approach advocates for tasteful embellishments, thereby rejuvenating ancient monuments while preserving their historical essence.
From Pilot to Progress: Extending the Decorative Initiative
What began as a pilot project in 2022 has now blossomed into a comprehensive restoration effort encompassing various facets of the monument. Notably, a segment of the southern wall of the Jagamohana has already undergone transformation, with intricate khondalite stone carvings and mouldings adorning the once plain slabs, signaling the project’s expansion.
Addressing Concerns: Transparency in Conservation
In response to concerns raised on social media regarding the replacement of sculpted panels with plain stones, ASI clarified its methodology. Plain stones were utilised only in areas devoid of evidence, adhering to archaeological protocols. This transparency underscores ASI’s commitment to preserving heritage while fostering public trust.
A Glimpse into the Future: Unveiling the Sealed Jagamohan
In tandem with the decorative initiative, ASI is poised to unveil the mysteries shrouding the sealed Jagamohan of the Sun Temple. With the completion of a mechanical platform, preparations are underway to remove the sand filled within the structure over a century ago. This monumental undertaking promises to unveil new chapters in the temple’s storied history.
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