MANGALURU: People of Dakshina Kannada district are joining hands to renovate centuries-old temples that are in dilapidated condition. And preserving Tulunadu architecture seems to be one of their main goals during the renovation.

Though black stones from Tamil Nadu have replaced red laterite blocks during renovation of ancient temples, people are ensuring that the renovation follows the Vasthu Shastra of Tulunadu. All structures, from dhwaja sthambha to garbhagudi, are being designed based on Tulunadu architecture with the help of Vasthu Shilpis of the region.

The Sri Sooryanarayana temple at Maroli, Sri Mahalingeshwara temple in Puttur, Sri Thrishoolini temple and Sri Durgaparameshwari temple at Balpa village in Sullia are some of the ancient structures being renovated with a touch of Tulunadu style.

The 1,200-year-old Sri Sooryanarayana temple is being renovated at an estimated cost of Rs 15 crore with an emphasis on traditional architecture of the region. The garbhagudi, Sri Devi gudi, theertha mantapa, ola suthupouli, dhwaja sthambha, vasantha mantapa, roof, ceiling and pillars are designed at the directions of noted Vasthu Shipli Muniyangala Mahesh Bhat, said J Balakrishna Kottari, president of Sooryanarayana Temple Renovation Committee.

He told TOI that a decision to renovate the temple was taken after main structures started deteriorating. "Our main aim is to renovate the only Sun temple in the region by preserving its architecture. According to records, the ancient temple was designed on the lines of old temple of Bhargava Kshethra. It is our aim to rejuvenate sculpture (vasthu shilpa). Each pillar and structure is being shaped as per the directions of Vasthu Shipli Muniyangala Mahesh Bhat and Giridhar Shetty, working president of the renovation committee," Kottari said.

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Don't used modern methods

"Most temples that were renovated in Mangaluru are not in good shape. The renovating authorities are not following the traditional ways. They usually collect huge funds from devotees. So when donors want to see the temple in a grand manner, they are bound to impress them - they do more decorative work to make the temple look grand without maintaining its original shape or character. I do not agree with such a system. I have brought out a 500-page book, Inscribed Heritage, based on correspondences I made to protect temples of Mangaluru. Many times, I used to meet each and every person involved in the renovation. However they don't bother, and instead follow their own way and own style, which is pathetic. So, I am a mute witness to the destruction of centuries-old temples in the name of renovation. They are destroying the original works and making show pieces. Sudden introduction of modern architecture has brought a break in our traditional architectural style. Modernization replaced mud and wood with cement. All ancient works and items had their own meanings. I feel bad about what is happening. However, am about saving 27 original traditional structures of Karnataka in the Heritage village.