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Time of India

ASI uses traditional methods for restoration of Srisailam, Durga temples

Hyderabad: In a major step towards preserving the sacred architectural legacy, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), in collaboration with Uttaradevi Charitable Trust, Pune, has initiated the conservation of the Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy temple in Srisailam—one of the country's most revered Jyotirlinga shrines. The restoration work, grounded in traditional methods and original materials, spans 40,000 square feet and prioritises the sealing of rooftop leakages through the construction of traditional lime tanks. Rejecting the use of modern concrete, the ASI is instead employing time-honoured heritage techniques involving a mix of lime, jaggery, Arabic tree gum, jute, and Kadakia. "These materials have stood the test of time, ensuring structural resilience without compromising historical authenticity," said K Muniratnam Reddy, director of ASI's epigraphy wing. A multidisciplinary team—comprising experts from the ASI, IIT, Agama Sastra scholars, and engineers from Pune—was assembled to guide the process. Supported by the Andhra Pradesh govt and endowments minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy, the team recently convened at Srisailam to assess the structural stability of key load-bearing components such as pillars and beams. Their objective is to implement preservation methods that will safeguard the temple's integrity for the next 200–300 years. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Switch to UnionBank Rewards Card UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo Muniratnam Reddy emphasised the critical importance of consulting heritage experts before undertaking any conservation or renovation of ancient temples and urged temple authorities across Andhra Pradesh to seek ASI guidance. Traditional restoration Uttaradevi Charitable Trust is also overseeing similar heritage-driven restoration efforts at the Simhachalam Appanna temple, where traditional lime-based surkhi concrete is being laid on the rooftops under ASI supervision. At the Kanaka Durga temple in Vijayawada, Munirathnam Reddy took part in a review meeting to examine ongoing development activities. During the visit, he inspected water seepage issues on the hilltop shrine's roof and advised temple officials to adopt ancient conservation methods to ensure long-term structural preservation.