Udupi: ‘Team Taulava’ takes charge to preserve endangered ancient monuments

This campaign aims to protect ancient temples, forts, wells, Basadis, inscriptions, sculptures, coins, manuscripts, palm-leaf texts, and intricate cave paintings in deteriorating conditions across the undivided Dakshina Kannada district. The initiative also seeks to raise historical awareness among locals, enlisting their support to preserve these sites with cultural and historic value.

Fifteen days ago, the team collaborated with local villagers to clean the Padumattha Ramateertha Pushkarani, a 14th-15th century heritage site in Manibettu near Shirva village. Team Taulava has resolved to identify and clean one unknown heritage site every month, requesting the public to share information about such locations.

Student Participation in Preservation Efforts

Students are also being involved in this project. They are being taken to endangered heritage sites to study their historical context. Shrutesh Acharya Moodubelle, Deputy Director of Shriniketan Museum and Keladi Rani Chennamma Study Chair, Kukke Subrahmanya, stated that this hands-on experience would encourage students to actively contribute to preservation efforts.

Call for Support from Local Groups

Team Praachya Taulava Karnata is seeking the support of local communities and organizations for this initiative. “Anyone interested in volunteering selflessly for the conservation of ancient sites is welcome to join us,” said G.B. Kallapur, Director of Shriniketan Museum and Keladi Rani Chennamma Study Chair.

After the restoration

Biodiversity Protection a Priority

In addition to the preservation and cleanliness of these heritage sites, the team is committed to maintaining ecological balance, ensuring that biodiversity around sites like ponds and pushkaranis is not disturbed during restoration efforts, explained Professor S.A. Krishnayya, Founder-President of the Praachya Sanchaya Research Centre, Udupi.

Share Information on Local Heritage Sites

If you know of any neglected historic sites or artefacts in your area, you can contact the team via [email protected] or WhatsApp at 8296613761. The team will visit such sites, conduct an initial clean-up, collect extensive details, and undertake scientific historical documentation.