Restoration of the broken Dwarapalaka sculptures at Telangana’s Thousand Pillar Temple in Hanamkonda is expected to be completed in three weeks, with the Archaeological Survey of India’s Hyderabad circle undertaking the work at a cost of ₹14 lakh.
The restoration began two months ago and is being carried out by skilled artisans and Sthapatis from Tamil Nadu, according to a report by Deccan Chronicle. The work focuses on reassembling the damaged guardian sculptures, known as Dwarapalakas, whose broken pieces had been kept inside the temple for more than 75 years.
ASI officials said the available fragments were studied, mapped and documented before restoration began. The assessment was carried out according to principles of Shilpa-Shastra, which guide the proportions, ornamentation and form of traditional temple sculpture. This documentation is being used to determine the original appearance of portions that are missing or damaged.
Before permanent restoration, temporary matching models made from Plaster of Paris are prepared and fixed to the sculptures. The models help the artisans assess the accurate ornamental shape and size of the missing sections before carving the final replacements.
The permanent replacement portions are being carved from matching granite stone. The process is intended to align the newly carved sections with the original fragments in terms of material, shape and decorative detailing. Once the matching sections are ready, the original pieces and the new portions are joined under expert supervision.
According to the report, the structural connections use SS 304 grade stainless steel bars as anchors, along with matching epoxy resin. The combination is being used to secure the original and newly carved granite sections while retaining the appearance of the historic sculptures.
The restoration places skilled craft practice alongside conservation documentation and contemporary structural fixing methods. The involvement of Sthapatis from Tamil Nadu reflects the specialised workmanship required for the reconstruction of temple sculptures, while the ASI’s mapping and supervision provide the institutional framework for the work.
The Thousand Pillar Temple, located in Hanamkonda, is among Telangana’s significant historic temple sites. The current intervention is limited to the damaged Dwarapalaka sculptures described in the report. The ASI Hyderabad circle has set a three-week target for completing the mending work, with the ₹14 lakh restoration being carried out under the supervision of conservation experts.
