Sculptures on the wall of Jambeswar temple (top) near Jambeswarpatna at Old Town area in Bhubaneswar. Pictures by Ashwinee Pati

Bhubaneswar, June 21: If the rock-cut sculptures of the Sun temple, Konark, are believed to have the power of speech manifested through art, the same applies for another monument, the Jameswar temple situated in Bhubaneswar.

But, with no one paying attention for maintenance of the Old Town temple, it has become a haven for criminals elements after sunset.

Though no comparison can be made in the fame of both monuments, with the former being world-renowned whereas the Old Town temple is hardly visited by even the people of the city, the astounding art that adorns the Jameswar temple definitely deserves better attention.

The majestic temple, despite being in a better condition than many other monuments of the same era found in the city, requires regular maintenance by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The ASI has declared the monument as a protected one.

Built around a period between 13th and 14th century, the Jameswar temple is located close to the Badheibanka Chowk of the Old Town area. The temple has a wide precinct that houses the main sanctum — a colossal structure, a smaller shrine and a remarkable stage — the Natamandapa.

Small cave like structures can be found on the thick boundary wall built in laterite stones. While a couple of these mini caves hold idols like that of a broken Ganesha, a number of broken structures have been piled atop one another.

The most attractive feature of the temple is the stunning carving of scenes depicting the then prevalent lifestyle, including people riding on elephants, women being decorated by female attendants, amorous couples and many mythical legends.

All of these have been created with finesse. However, many of these carvings, as well as the impressive motifs and bordering patterns, can fall prey to erosion and weathering. Many of the external carvings have been turning black, while others have developed cracks on their structures.

Devotees who visit the temple allege that some of the gorgeously carved detached sculptures lying in the temple precinct have gone missing.

“The loose sculptures that are lying in the temple are neither guarded nor locked in a storehouse. They lie in open place with just a fence of barbed wire for protection,” said Pabitra Nayak, a visitor to the temple.

“This does not help to save the structures and many of the exquisite pieces seem to be missing which is not surprising since the cave like structures of the temple have turned into hideouts for anti-socials at night,” he added.

Indeed, one finds cigarette buds, matchsticks and tobacco pouches in the cave behind the sanctum of the temple.

Situated on a narrow lane, a number of urban structures have come up around the monument in the past few years, which also add to the woes of the temple.

“The temple has been well-maintained and we had conducted repair work there some time back. But when it comes to guarding, we are helpless since our guard is bullied by some local anti-socials. Also, the lack of awareness among local residents is leading to construction around the temple,” said A.K. Patel, superintending archaeologist, Bhubaneswar circle, ASI.