Court Directs Replacement and Installation of Missing and Damaged Ashta Dikpalakas to Preserve Temple's Sanctity
In a significant judgment, the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has directed the replacement and installation of the damaged and missing guardian deities, Ashta Dikpalakas, at the Sri Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur. The court's decision comes in response to writ petitions filed by devotees concerned about the preservation of the temple's sanctity and historical significance.
The bench, comprising Justices C.V. Karthikeyan and R. Sakthivel, addressed the petitions seeking the replacement of mutilated idols and the installation of missing Ashta Dikpalakas in the Thanjavur Big Temple. The court emphasized the importance of restoring the temple's sanctity, noting that a damaged or missing idol disrupts the spiritual focus necessary for worship.
The court ordered the District Collector, HR & CE Department, and the Archaeological Survey of India to take immediate steps to replace and install the deities with reverence and in consultation with experts and Sthapathis. The directive mandates that the preliminary work should begin within three months, and the entire process should be completed within twelve months.
Highlighting the temple's architectural and cultural heritage, the court stated that the temple, built over a millennium ago by King Raja Raja Cholan I, is a living monument that continues to attract throngs of devotees. The temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its towering vimana and intricate inscriptions.
The court's decision also addressed concerns regarding the preservation of the damaged idols, directing that they be maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India. The judgment underscores the necessity of maintaining the religious and historical integrity of one of India's most significant temples.
Bottom Line :
The replacement and installation of damaged and missing guardian deities (Ashta Dikpalakas) in Sri Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur, is directed to be undertaken with due reverence, in accordance with agama principles, and in consultation with experts and Sthapathis to restore the temple's sanctity and historical significance.
Statutory provision(s): Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, Section 6(2)(c)(iii)
K. Kaliyamoorthy v. Union of India, (Madras)(DB)(Madurai Bench) : Law Finder Doc id # 2987803
