Gingee Fort, Kanchi temple may be World Heritage Sites

Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, Nov 28 (UNI) Superintending Archaeologist of Archaeological Survey of India, Chennai Circle, Satyabhama Badrinath today said a recommendation had been made to declare Gingee Fort and the Kailasanathar Temple in Kancheepuram district as 'World Heritage Sites.' Speaking to the media after reviewing various works at the historial Big Temple here, Ms Badrinath said since both the structures had been constructed at almost the same period, the plea for declaring them as 'World Heritage Site' was made.

The temple has been constructed by the Pallavas in the eighth century. It s famous for its splendid 'vimana.' It also contains numerous panels showing lord Siva as Nataraja in various postures.This temple was built by Pallava King Narasimhavarman II (Rajasimhan).

Originally a small fort built by the Chola dynasty in 9th century AD, the Gingee Fort was later modified by the Vijayanagar empire in the 13th century to elevate it to the status of an unbreachable citadel to protect the small town of Gingee.

It was also the headquarters of the Gingee Nayaks, during the Nayak domination in Tamil Nadu. The fort was built as a strategic place of fending off any invading armies.

She also disclosed the ASI would be taking up restoration and repair work on Thirumalainayakar palace after shifting the court functioning from the premises.

On the Big Temple, Ms Badrinath said various repair and restoration works were underway. This was expected to be completed before March 2008.

District Collector S Vijayaraj Kumar said a total of Rs 4.27 crore would be spent on improving the infrastructure at the Big Temple.

The work would be undertaken with financial assistance of Central and state governments, he added.

UNI