‘CM KCR had clear vision on Yadadri project’
Since 2015, when the Yadadri Temple Development Authority (YTDA) was set up to execute the renovation and reconstruction works at the Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, G Kishan Rao, as YTDA vice-chairman, has been going about the massive task entrusted to him meticulously and relentlessly. Even Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao heaped praise on him […]
Published Date - 22 October 2021, 12:10 AM
Since 2015, when the Yadadri Temple Development Authority (YTDA) was set up to execute the renovation and reconstruction works at the Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, G Kishan Rao, as YTDA vice-chairman, has been going about the massive task entrusted to him meticulously and relentlessly. Even Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao heaped praise on him during his recent visit to Yadadri. Kishan Rao recalled the challenges he faced including the identification of artisans and following the prescribed norms under different ‘shastras’ while executing the works. “The Chief Minister inspected the renovation and reconstruction works 17 times. This speaks volumes of his devotion and commitment to transform the temple,” Kishan Rao said, sharing his experiences in an exclusive interview with Telangana Today.
On completion of works
There are two reasons. One the Lord himself because without his blessings, none of the works could have been completed as planned. Second is Chief Minister for his commitment, vision, planning and guidance. During his visits, he spent about six to seven hours, observing every minute detail. The best thing is he always thinks like a devotee and accordingly directed us to establish amenities and infrastructure at the temple. The Chief Minister had a clear vision of the entire project and he directed us on the works that had to be expedited and the ones which could be taken up subsequently.
Transformation of temple
It was a small temple constructed in about 2,500 square yards which has now been expanded to nearly four acres. At any given point of time, one lakh devotees can sit in the open spaces around the temple. There are Mada Veedhis around the temple and a Ratham (Lord’s chariot) procession can be taken out comfortably. There are lifts and escalators for the convenience of physically challenged and senior citizens, besides all other amenities for devotees.
Designs, architecture
It was very challenging. The art director used to come up with a design and it had to be approved by ‘Stapathis’ and ‘Vastu experts. For every work, we had to take the approval of experts and ensure that designs and works were as per the norms prescribed in ‘Vastu’, ‘Agama’, ‘Vaikana’ and ‘Shilpi’ shastras.
Most challenging work
More than technical aspects, coordination among various departments was a bit challenging. Officials from Endowments, Roads and Buildings, Municipal Administration and Urban Development, Electricity and other Departments had to execute different works. To persuade, follow up and ensure deadlines were met, was challenging.
Expenditure incurred
So far about Rs 1, 000 crore was spent on the entire project and of these, nearly Rs 280 crore was spent on temple renovation and reconstruction works. Rest was used for land acquisition, road laying, infrastructure development. Another Rs 300 to Rs 400 crore would be required to be complete the balance works.
Final touches
All the major works atop the hill are completed save for a few final touches and patchworks. Construction of Kalyana Mandapam, Vratha Mandapam, and Annadanam Hall foothill will be completed before March.
Construction practices
Conventional materials such as cement, bricks and concrete were not used for the temple works. As per heritage norms, lime and mortar are used for laying, jointing and bonding stones. Sourcing lime and mortar materials and getting a contractor for executing the works was a task. To top it all, a Bengaluru-based expert agency was roped in to check the standard of works.
On delay in works
One has to consider many factors. Over 500 sculptors and workers from different places including Allagadda, Karimnagar and Tamil Nadu worked at the site and they would leave for their native places for festivals and other occasions. Krishna Shila (black stone) was sourced from Prakasham in Andhra Pradesh. Every stone block and the finished pillar were tested for strength and quality by expert agencies. It is not like regular building work, it is temple work and involves a lot of aspects, especially, ‘Vastu’, ‘Agama’ and ‘Vaikana’ shastras. Above all, there was lockdown due to the Covid pandemic, which impacted supplies. And, there were heavy rains in the last three to four years. All these factors had an impact on the pace of works.
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