Published on: April 19, 2025

HAMPI MONUMENTS

HAMPI MONUMENTS

NEWS – A recent report reveals that almost every ASI-protected monument at the World Heritage Site of Hampi is vulnerable and requires urgent repair. The study aims to outline restoration priorities for the next 10 years to conserve these tourist-attracting monuments.

HIGHLIGHTS

Details of the Study

  • Prepared by:
    • Hampi Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) Circle
    • Goa-based Samvardhan Heritage Solutions
  • Scope:
    • Photographic documentation of each monument
    • Assessment of structural condition, weather impact, and past restoration work

Overview of Hampi Monuments

  • Capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, located in the Tungabhadra basin
  • Spread across 4,187 hectares
  • Home to 1,600 remaining monuments including:
    • Forts
    • Temples
    • Shrines
    • Water structures
  • 57 monuments are protected by the ASI and receive top conservation priority

Monument Condition Categories

  1. Major Concern
    • 9 monuments fall under this category
    • Indicates excessive structural instability
    • Requires immediate attention or repair
    • Includes:
      • Vijaya Vittala Temple Complex
      • Veerupaksha Temple Complex
      • Krishna Temple Complex
      • Ugra Narasimha
      • Hemakuta Hills
      • Achyutaraya Temple
      • Lotus Mahal Temple Complex
  1. Moderate Concern
    • 11 monuments categorized here
    • Shows excessive weathering or early signs of structural decay
    • Needs monitoring to evaluate speed of deterioration
  2. Minor Concern
    • Remaining monuments
    • Currently cause visual disturbance
    • Could develop structural damage over time
    • Require periodic attention

Study Methodology

  • Carried out over two months
  • Involved:
    • Physical inspection of monuments
    • Analysis of material conditions
    • Review of environmental impacts
    • Documentation of alterations and restorations

Challenges to Conservation

  • Human Activities:
    • Mining
    • Quarrying
    • Tourism
  • Natural Causes:
    • Heavy rainfall
    • Vegetation overgrowth
  • Financial Limitations:
    • A June 2024 report highlighted funding shortages hindering restoration efforts by ASI Hampi Circle