Restoration of broken Dwarapalaka sculptures at Telangana’s Thousand Pillar Temple in Hanamkonda is expected to be completed within three weeks, with the Archaeological Survey of India’s Hyderabad circle carrying out the work at a cost of ₹14 lakh.
The restoration began two months ago and is being undertaken by skilled artisans and Sthapatis from Tamil Nadu. The work focuses on reassembling the damaged guardian sculptures using the original broken pieces preserved inside the temple for more than 75 years.
According to officials cited in the report, the available fragments were studied, mapped and documented before restoration began. The assessment followed principles associated with Shilpa-Shastra, which guided the reconstruction of the sculptures’ ornamental forms and dimensions.
Temporary matching models made from Plaster of Paris were first prepared and fixed to the damaged sections. These models are being used to establish the accurate shape and size of the missing portions before permanent replacements are carved in matching granite stone.
The original fragments and newly carved granite sections are being joined using SS 304 grade stainless steel bars as anchors and matching epoxy resin. The process is being conducted under the supervision of experts, according to officials.
The restoration is part of the continuing conservation of the Thousand Pillar Temple, a major historic structure in Hanamkonda. The method described by the ASI places emphasis on retaining the surviving material while carefully reproducing only the missing sections needed to restore the sculptures’ form.
The Hyderabad circle of the ASI is aiming to complete the mending work in three weeks. The report did not provide further details on whether additional conservation work is planned after the Dwarapalaka restoration is completed.
