Broken temple pieces of Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram

 As a part of my self-propelled endeavor to visit & photograph some lesser known broken/dilapidated heritage Hindu temples across India, I had visited the Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram a few months back. A large number of broken pieces are lying around in the large compound. 

These broken temple pieces are the historical remnants of severe damage inflicted during medieval-era invasions from the Deccan. Built in the 12th century by Chola emperor Rajaraja II, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was originally a much vaster complex that suffered significant destruction.

·        The Ruined Rajagopuram (Main Entrance): The outermost seven-tiered walls and the main entry tower were completely destroyed, leaving only a tower less base, scattered pillars, and chopped stone structures.

·        The Outer Courtyard: The second enclosure wall was almost entirely leveled. The open courtyards house fragments of broken friezes, unattached pillars, and chipped bas-reliefs.

·        Vandalized Sculptures: A few empty wall niches and damaged idols, including chopped carvings of deities and structural elements, can be seen across the exterior.

 The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has painstakingly managed the site since 1954. They have reassembled portions of the ruined eastern entrance and safeguard fragile elements, like the famous musical steps, under protective metal grilles to prevent further deterioration.  

Still a lot remains to be done as these broken pieces show.........