Nataraj Idol on the ceiling of Verul Caves (Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar) develops cracks

Neglect of Archaeological Survey of India : According to experts, this is a serious matter

(Credits: Dainik Bhaskar)

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar – The Nandi Mandap’s roof within the Verul Caves, designated as a World Heritage Site, adorned with magnificent carvings meticulously painted with natural hues, has begun to crumble. In addition, the Rang Mandap has deteriorated, taking on a deep black hue due to exposure to the elements. Moreover, the Idol of Nataraj, intricately carved into the Mandap’s ceiling, has sustained cracks, prompting cave experts to express grave concerns over its imminent collapse but the Archaeological Survey of India (‘ASI’) has no time to pay attention to this. (Insensitive Archaeological Survey of India ignoring deteriorating condition of the Nataraj Idol and the surrounding carvings. Damages should be recovered from the salaries of the officials responsible for this negligence – Editor)

The Kailasa temple at Verul Caves boasts an array of intricately carved Idols, featuring 18 to 20 Deities. Notably, the Nandi Mandap, adorned with exquisite carvings, is a major tourist attraction. The ceiling of this Mandap is meticulously layered with mud and lime, and adorned with intricate designs using natural colors.

However, the state of preservation by the Archaeological Survey of India falls short of the mark. Exposed to the elements, including rain, wind, and sun, the Rang Mandap has succumbed to the growth of fungus, causing it to darken over time. Of great concern is the presence of an Idol of Nataraj within the Rang Mandap, which has now developed worrisome cracks, rendering it on the brink of collapse. Urgent action and conservation measures are imperative to safeguard this invaluable statue.

Cracks development on Nataraj Idol is a serious matter : Cave Experts

Verul cave expert Yogesh Joshi has expressed his concern, stating, “The carvings in the Nandi Mandap and the Nataraj Idol on the ceiling of the Rang Mandap have developed cracks. This is a matter of utmost seriousness. Preserving this historical structure is entirely feasible, and the ASI should promptly prioritise it and engage in preservation and conservation efforts”.

Superintendent of Archaeological Survey of India Dr Shivkumar Bhagat stated, “We will conduct an inspection of the carvings in the Nandi Mandap and the Nataraj Idol on the ceiling of the Rang Mandap to ascertain if any cracks are present. If indeed this is the case, we will promptly initiate conservation work”. (Why did the Archaeological Survey of India fail to address this issue sooner ? Officials who only take corrective measures after receiving alerts from cave experts should face significant repercussions – Editor).

Editorial Perspective

Dissolve the Archaeological Survey of India which does nothing for the conservation of Hindu religious sites.