Mysore's Historic Sree Lakshmi Janardhana Temple To Undergo Renovation After 60 Years Of Neglect

The temple had fallen into ruins due to natural calamities and lack of maintenance.

India boasts a rich heritage of temples, many of which are centuries-old architectural marvels. These sacred sites serve as spiritual hubs and draw pilgrims and tourists from far and wide. Among them, the Sree Lakshmi Janardhana Swamy Temple in Tadimalangi village, Mysore, Karnataka, stands out for its historical significance and unique architecture. Believed to have been constructed in the 11th century during the Chola dynasty’s reign, this temple has recently garnered attention as plans for its renovation are underway.

Despite its cultural importance and regular visits by locals, the Sree Lakshmi Janardhana Temple has been in a state of disrepair for the past six decades. Situated amidst a forest, the temple had fallen into ruins due to natural calamities and a lack of maintenance. However, recent developments signal a revival for this ancient place of worship. Villagers, recognising the temple’s significance, have taken the initiative to repair and restore it using their resources. Their efforts include cleaning the surrounding area, removing overgrown plants and ensuring the preservation of the temple’s architectural features, such as its 52 pillars and the statue of Sree Lakshmi Janardana.

Gopal Balakrishna, a historian from Mysore, expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of such ancient temples, emphasising their cultural and historical value. He highlighted the need for restoration efforts, particularly in preserving pathways leading to these temples, which often suffer neglect. Balakrishna’s documentation of Chola temples underscores the importance of safeguarding these architectural treasures, which serve as tangible links to India’s rich past, with some structures dating back over a millennium to the reign of Rajaraja Chola.

The impending renovation of the Sree Lakshmi Janardhana Swamy Temple signifies a hopeful chapter in its history, as it prepares to reclaim its former glory. With the dedication of local communities and the recognition of heritage enthusiasts like Balakrishna, these temples continue to hold a special place in India’s cultural landscape, serving as symbols of spiritual devotion and architectural brilliance across generations.