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2w ago

ASI Designates Odisha’s Swapneswar Mahadev Temple as Protected National Monument

A Gazette notification under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1958 formalized federal protection for the 6th-century shrine after high-level political intervention.

After Prime Minister Modi assumed the charge at Centre, the ASI initiated the process of taking over the responsibility of the temple.

Overview

  • A Gazette notification on July 2 invoked the 1958 Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act to classify the Swapneswar Mahadev temple as a monument of national importance.
  • Located in Punjiama village of Banpur block, the 6th-century Shiva temple showcases Sailodbhava dynasty architecture and embodies Odisha’s early medieval spiritual heritage.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative to involve the ASI was followed by accelerated efforts from the BJP government in Odisha after its 2024 formation.
  • Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan credited the federal takeover for reversing decades of neglect and ensuring professional conservation.
  • The Archaeological Survey of India will now oversee comprehensive restoration, conservation and regulated public access to the newly protected site.