Big temple renovation works on in full swing

Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, June 28 (UNI) The repair works in the renowned 10th century Brihadeswara temple here are proceeding at a brisk pace, as part of which 20 ''Shiv lingams'' were removed from the temple precincts to ensure their safety.

The Shiv Lingams were removed to a safer place by the temple authorities after performing poojas. The 20 small Shiv Lingams, part of the 108 lingams installed on the four sides of the temple, would be reinstated after the renovation completes, according to Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) officials.

The repair works have been taken up by the ASI on the northern side of the historic temple to replace the granite stones in the ceiling. Skilled stone work masons have been employed for the purpose. The Centre had sanctioned Rs 59 lakh for the repair works, expected to be completed in another three or four months.

Though the temple had found a place in the UNESCO list of monuments, the fort wall outside the temple was in a bad shape for several years now, with portions of it having collapsed. The ASI had sought the state authorities to hand over the place to it for taking up maintenance work, but the matter was pending since 1971.

UNI