Barwani (Madhya Pradesh): Social worker Dhirendra Pandey has started a Jal Satyagraha to protect ancient temples of Chikhalda village in Barwani. His main concern is to save these temples from being submerged by Sardar Sarovar Dam.
He is demanding that a protective wall be built to safeguard the temples, emphasising that he does not want them to be relocated but preserved.
The temples at risk include the Shiva Temple, Agneshwar Tirtha and Tarkeshwar Hanuman Temple. Dhirendra, who was born in Chikhalda but now lives in Indore, explained that this area is historically significant as Agneshwar Tirtha, where many sages have performed penance.
According to local beliefs, the sages manifested Agni Dev here, who granted them the boon of eternal residence.
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The Sardar Sarovar Dam has affected 192 villages and one town in the state, leading to destruction of Chikhalda village. For the past four to five years, the temples have been deteriorating due to the rising water levels caused by the dam.
Dhirendra Pandey insists that a protective wall is essential to prevent further damage to the temples. He is determined to continue his Jal Satyagraha until construction begins.
He expressed frustration with mere assurances and warned that the upcoming rains could worsen the situation, potentially damaging the temples further.
