Madhya Pradesh's Devara Mahadev Temple: Neglecting Heritage?

Manawar (Madhya Pradesh): The ancient Devara Mahadev temple in Devara village, Manawar tehsil, was placed under the Archaeological Department on August 28, 2023.

However, a year later, no improvement or restoration work has commenced. Officials from the concerned department revealed that the first step involves demarcating the temple land, but this process has yet to begin. Dinesh Mandloi, department's district officer, stated, "The approval for this work has to be done at the divisional level. No work is in our hands."

Commissioner Urmila Shukla initially did not acknowledge the temple’s renovation came under her department but later assured, "We will look into this matter right now." The temple's renovation was further complicated by previous land acquisitions for private companies, which led to its removal from the archaeological department's website.

Thanks to the relentless efforts of local residents and the temple committee, the temple was reacquired by the department. However, the ongoing negligence raises concerns about the restoration of this significant heritage site. Barwani MP Sumer Singh Solanki has also urged commissioner Urmila Shukla, to ensure the temple is renovated.