700-Year-Old Kakatiya Temple Inches Closer to Ruin Due to Years of Neglect
A 700-year-old Shiva temple near Sanigaram, Warangal district, is at risk of collapsing due to neglect. Preservationists like Dr. E. Sivanagi Reddy have called for urgent restoration efforts to save the Kakatiya-style architecture.
Highlights
- •700-year-old Shiva temple on verge of collapse
- •Kakatiya architectural style in danger
- •Dr. E. Sivanagi Reddy's inspection detailed
- •Digitization step proposed by TORCH
Hyderabad: A 700-year-old Shiva temple built in the distinctive Kakatiya style is facing danger due to years of neglect. According to Dr. E. Sivanagi Reddy, the CEO of Pleach India Foundation, the temple located on the outskirts of Sanigaram village in Nallabelli mandal of Warangal district is severely deteriorated and could collapse at any moment.
Condition of the Kakatiya Temple
The structure comprises a garbhalaya, ardhamandapa, and 16-pillared mahamandapa built on an elevated base. Ornamental doorframes and mouldings are part of its hallmark design, which reflects the architectural style of the Ganapatideva period.
Dr Reddy inspected the temple after receiving information from historian Dr. Racharla Ganapati.The condition of the temple is worrying: damaged doorways, fallen roof slabs and dislodged pillars along with a damaged staircase are major concerns. Additionally, vegetation has overgrown the structure, further compromising its state of preservation.
Dr Reddy reported that Aravind Arya, secretary of Team of Research on Culture & Heritage (TORCH), is willing to undertake digital documentation as the first step towards restoring this historic landmark.
The temple represents the unique Kakatiya architectural style and needs urgent attention from both authorities and conservationists to prevent its collapse. The preservation efforts can serve as a blueprint for safeguarding similar historical sites in India and enriching our cultural heritage.
