Signs of government apathy visible on exteriors of the 12th century Bairangeswara Temple. Telegraph pictures

Bhubaneswar, Sept. 20: Hundreds of visitors frequent the Dhauli peace pagoda and Ashoka rock edicts along the Daya river every day. But the 12th century Bairangeswara Temple situated near these sites has a different story to tell. The ancient monument is slowly falling prey to natural threats and needs immediate attention.

Located amid serene settings with the Dhauli hills in the background and the Daya river flowing a few steps away from it, the Bairangeswara Temple offers the perfect ambience for those looking for peace of mind. The door jamb of the sanctum sanctorum flaunts typical Orissan motifs. Apart from flower patterns and designs of leaves and stems, two sculptures of a deity couple can be seen on both lower corners of the sanctum door of the Shiva temple. There are images and idols of deities such as, Hanuman, goddess Durga and other mystic divinities, outside the sanctum. A 19th century Ganesh temple is present in the precinct and a there is also a partially constructed jagamohana (frontal porch of the temple).

Though the monument is protected by Orissa State Archaeology, numerous conservation problems have cropped up over the years. While the priests and local residents have taken good care of the temple premises and even hold all major rituals and festivals, there are a number of natural threats to the monument.

Wild grass is growing on the dome of the main structure that was repaired few years ago by the Orissa State Archaeology. A thick layer of algae can also be seen on all walls and floor of the temple. Even the detached structures have developed the algae layer and also show signs of erosion by wind and water. The dark interiors of the sanctum have become a den for bats.

“We try to take care of the temple in whatever way we can. Since we do not have much idea about technical aspects of preservation of the monument, we are not able to keep it free from wild vegetation,” said Prakash Mohapatra, a priest of the temple. Local devotees also alleged that rainwater seeps in from all walls and roof of the sanctum.

“Whenever it rains a little, the Shiva lingam is covered with water that percolates from the roof and the sanctum walls. These issues should be looked into and the temple, which is an ancient heritage site, must be conserved properly by the state government archaeologists. Displaying a board that the monument is protected will not help,” said Sanyasi Rout, a devotee.

Moreover, the priests said it was only the devotees who were taking steps to develop the temple premises. However, officers at the Orissa State Archaeology said construction inside the temple was against rules.

“Since the temple is a protected monument, no construction is allowed on the premises without informing the authorities. We will soon take steps to clear the vegetation off the monument,” said an official.