1000-pillar Temple’s mandap may be ready by Oct or Nov

Vaishaka Shukla paksha 13, Kaliyug Varsh 5117

Warangal : The reconstruction of the Kalayana Mandapam of the historic Thousand-Pillar temple, an architectural marvel, is moving at a slow pace. Though it was expected to be completed by last December, it missed the deadline again much to the disappointment of cultural enthusiasts and tourists. However, it is said reconstruction is likely to be completed by October or November this year.

In view of the inordinate delay in the works, Endowments Minister A Indrakaran Reddy is contemplating to conduct a high level review meeting with the officials of the State government as well as the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in Hyderabad.

The minister, during his visit to Warangal a couple of days ago, had said he would soon hold the meeting with the officials. It may be mentioned here that the damaged Kalyana Mandam was dismantled for reconstruction in 2005. Though 10 years have gone by, it has not been built. According to sources, officials are planning to expedite the works at least by October this year as the government is planning Kakatiya Festival in October or November.

Sources also said that Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao might rededicate it to the nation during the Kakatiya Festival. When contacted, INTACH convener Prof M Panduranga Rao, who has been associated with the reconstruction of the Kalyana Mandam since its dismantling, said the ASI had already spent Rs 6 crore for reconstruction works and added that 85 per cent of the work had been completed.

He said, “We are expecting that the remaining work may take another six months. There is no scarcity of funds for the project.”

Source : The New Indian Express