Facing threat from quarrying activity, Telangana’s tallest Jain idol lies neglected, Pg6

Telangana’s tallest Jain stone sculpture of Tirthankara Vardhman Mahavira located in Nangunuru village, Siddipet district.

• Erected during the 9th century CE (Rashtrakuta period), the idol stands 9 feet high in Kayotsarga (stiff) posture.

• Represents the Digambara sect, features ushnisha on the head—a classical trait of Tirthankara iconography.

2. Site Archaeology & Discoveries

• Archaeologist E. Sivanagireddy found another Mahavira sculpture and a Jain sculpture within the local Anjaneya temple, indicating Nangunuru’s past as a Jain center.

• Presence of brickbats and potsherds confirms a Jain basadi (monastery) once existed there.

1. Quarrying Activity

• Ongoing quarrying near the hillock poses a severe threat to the integrity of the sculpture.

• The idol has already sunk into the earth up to the knee, raising concerns over further degradation.

2. Lack of Recognition and Conservation

• The site suffers from neglect and lack of protection, with no formal conservation effort underway.

• Despite archaeological evidence, authorities have not intervened to secure the sculpture.

Analysis & Way Forward

• Immediate intervention is required from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and state heritage bodies to list and protect the site.

• Inclusion under heritage tourism circuits could generate awareness and funds.

• Local community sensitization by historians like Mr. Sivanagireddy is a model for civic participation in heritage conservation.

Mains Mock Question:

“Ancient Jain monuments, though significant, are often overshadowed in India’s cultural conservation discourse. Discuss the challenges and suggest a policy approach for inclusive heritage preservation.”