Big Temple conservation work over G. Srinivasan Photo: M. Srinath
Back to old grandeur: The northern corridor of the temple in Thanjavur.
THANJAVUR: Conservation work taken up by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on the northern corridor (Thiruchutrumaligai) of the Big Temple here has been completed.
The lingams in the corridor have been installed and paintings and inscriptions restored. Devotees and tourists can visit the northern corridor and see lingams, paintings and the epigraphs, according to Ms. Sathyabama Badrinath, ASI Superintending Engineer.
An inscription in this part of the temple carries the title `Perundhanam,' probably referring to a high ranking officer.
Inscriptions indicate that officers of high rank existed in the Chola period both in revenue as well as military departments. The ASI has proposed to take up conservation work at 1,000 pillar mandapam at Kudumiyanmalai this year. Fencing has been done at Vellore Fort and the ramparts are used for walking by people. Each and every stone is numbered and its position vertical and horizontal is marked. Thus ASI is keen on restoration of structures in their original form, Ms. Sathyabama explained.
Work on a toilet block outside the temple has been completed and it will be thrown open to the public after service connections are given. There are provisions for physically handicapped persons.
She said that an assessment report on sound and light programme was expected by the ASI.