Distribution: limited FR/TA/CONSULTANT

f.

Proposals for
.
Restoration Work at
Srirangam Temple

by G.R.H. Wright

Serial No. 1222/BMS. RD/CLT

Paris, May 1969
 TABLE OFCONTENTS

Page
I. INTRODUCTION TO THE PROBLEMSCONCERNINGSRIRANGAMTEMPLE.....,......... 3

II. ..............................
CONSERVATIONAND RESTORATIONOF MONUMENTS 7
.
A. The background to its application in the present connexion........ 7

B. Some general principles and their relevance in this connexion..... 9

APPENDIX 1. PREVENTIONOF GROWTHOF VEGETATION ON ANCIENT

MONUMENTS. . . . . . . . . ..I................................. 17

APPENDIX 2. GROUTING. . . ..*.............*.........*...............* 18

III. THE TEMPLE OF SRIRANGAM- PROPOSEDCONSERVATIONAND RESTORATION....,... 21

A. General programme ................................................. 21

B. Present disposition of temple ..................................... 21

C. Approach and surround ............................................. 23

D. Walls ............................................................. 24

E. Terrace roofs ..................................................... 26

F. Flooring .......................................................... 27

G. Painting .......................................................... 28

H. Sculpture ......................................................... 30

J. Gopuras ........................................................... 32

K. The Venugopala (Sri Krishna) Temple ............................... 35

L. The 1968 repainting of Sri Chakrathalwar Sannidhi.................3 6

M. The Museum ........................................................ 37

N. The Horsemen Macdapa .............................................. 38

0. The Thousand Pillar Mandapa ....................................... 39

P. The inner areas of the temple ..................................... 40

Q. The RangaVlmanaShikhara ......................................... 41

Serial No. 1222

 -2-
Page
R. Summary of recommendations . ..*........*....0......*............... 42

APPENDIX - REPORTON TEST OPEF!!TIONS CARRIED OUT IN

DECEMBER1968 . . . . . ..*..............*................... 45

1. Cleaning pillars in Horsemen Mandapa.................... 45

2. Removing cement "false pointing" and other disfigure-

ments on walls . ..e.a...*................................ 46

3. Cleaning external plaster-work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...*... 43

IV. ................................
NOTICES OF OTHER SOUTH INDIAN MONUMENPS 49

A. Report on Palaiya Sivaram and Thirumakudal Temples................. 4-9

B. Brief note on the Temple of Gangsikonda Cholapuram, near lower

Anicut and the Dharasurem Temple . . . ..*.*....0...**..*.......*...... 50

c. Report on treatment of sculptured pillars in Ramaswamy Temple

at Kumbakonam. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..~................. 50

D. Short report on the Temple of Aruna Jogeswara at Thirupanandal..... 50

E. Short report on Muvar Koil (near Kodambalur)....................... 5?

F. Short report on Muchu Kunde&&a (Mudukundrum) Temple*............. 51

G. Short report on Alagar Koil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..a...... 51

H. Report of inspection of the Sundaraja Perumal Temple,

Thiruvellarai . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..*.................*.............. 52

J. Repzt on the Institute of Religious Art, Mshabalipuram............ 54

Serial No. 1222

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I. INTRODUCTIONTO THE PRO3LEMSCONCERNINGSRIRANGAMTEMPLE

To report on the mise en valeur of the Temple City of Srirangam is not

basically to report on the fabric of a complex of buildings. It is to report on
. a situation. The monunant is a living temple, one of the great centres of
Vaishnavite worship in India. Its structure is of architectural and historical
interest. Part of its confines has become a township under separate municipal
control. Little reflection is required to realize that conflicts may emerge be-
tween these different interests. In this situation not only are historical con-
siderations of art and architecture involved, but equally directly are involved
religious, ethnic, social and political considerations.

Municipalities cannot be induced readily to vacate built-up housing in an

over-populated, overcrowded land. Foreign 'experts" expect to apply automatically
practices and ideas concerning the restoration of monuments which sre current in
Western Europe. A devout philanthropist seeks the moral regeneration of his
fellows by reviving traditional religion in its full spiritual development at a
great traditional shrine. A community of common men wish to continue their round
of devotion in the surroundings and manner familiar to them since birth, Archaeo-
logist scholars and officials are anxious to demonstrate that they are the res-
ponsible inheritors of the countryls monuments. Some authorities hope to real&e
to the utmost the potentialities of ancient. temples for attracting foreign cur-
rency to the country.

Not only do such Interests as these conflict, but the actual exercising of
authority to ensure execution of mise en valeur measures is by no means pre-
determined matter of routine in a land where society has assumed a very new and
popular complexion. In the face of these circumstances the real difficulties
confronting a programme of work at Srirangam are almost everything but architectural.

Thus is it difficult to &ntroduce a report except by something like a social

study. Resisting this
show the reality of the
ground to the technical
measure to explain why
be desired
temptation, a few vignettes only may be drawn which will
factors mentioned. These may be kept in mind as a back-
body of the report. Hopefully they may serve in some
it Is not the simple, straightforward programme which could

The huge "Rcrya Gopura", constituting the main entrance way to the temple
city, was begun by the ViJayanagar King, Achyuta Raya, probably to commemmorate
a victory, and it was abandoned unfinished because of a crushing defeat. Because
of the pregnant historical association of this monument for the present-day peo-
ple of Tamilnad, they may well consider that they will be "discharging a saored
duty by completing the Gopuram". Such a proJect may be advisable and meritorious
from the ethnic and social point of view; it is inadvisable from the aesthetic/
archaeological point of view. From thelatter point of view it is most desirable
that tho magnificent masonry of the gopuram be brought fully into view. However,
simply to permit observation requires the demolition and clearance of modern
premises which abut directly on the ancient masonry. These premises include not
only houses, shops, offices, but also a popular modern temple built 40 years ago!
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 -4-

An elcmi;ntary example may crystallize the clash arising between reflgions

considerations and those which, for ccnvenience, are calicd arzhaeologir:al/
aest:hetic considerations. Take one of the excellent Hoysola figurti sculptures
which stand out from the walls of the Venugopala shrine. This figure is of im-
mediately recognizable artistic quality. It Is weathered somewhat and has the
cachet of age. Nothing can be done to it which can possibly improve its aesthetic,'
archaeologicai appal. Pert of one limb or the like has been brokr?n aww. If a
new member were dowelled in, in a ccngruous manner, it would not greatly diminish
the aesthetic appeal. It ce.rtainly would not increase ita Such a measure would
certainly not be considered advisable if this figure were being exhibited in a
l?arcpean Museum.

However, this figure is a representation of the Deity. And in certain cir-

cumstances it Is religiously unbecoming to allow the Deity to be manifested in
spoiled and broken images. Sacred writings contain provisions on this score. Such
images should be removed and replaced by new ones.

Again consider the TollowIng rather "human" and "everyday" matters. Within
the temple complex, there are numerous individual shrines - each oi which has a
community of local worshippers. Such a shrine may be of intellectual interest to
a few scholars, it may become a curiosdty interest for foreign tourists, to the
community it is simply their parish church, the focus of a part of their lives as
it was of their parents' lives. Without much knowledge of the Shastras or Agamas,
and certainly without any knowledge of architectural history, they desire to show
their reverence for the Deity by the adornment of his house. This they do in the
vernacular manner which has meaning for them. How else 3 Otherwise it could
barely be said to be their offering. Any frustration of this offering by the
intervention of esoteric concepts of artistic worth will be to them a grief and
annoyance which they will resist.
However, to many educated Europeans religion is conceived of as a sort of perva
sive spirituality inevitably Involving refined artistic taste. This IS partly
baaed on the fact that in previous epocha the master-works of art have been created
in service of religion. It Is also baaed on the fact that with the decline of
traditional religion in the West reverence for art has become in itself a substl-
tute religion. That God can be properly venerated in a milieu of acultural, com-
mercial decoration is unpalatable to this outlook.

Such a conflict of considerations as these last has often been noted, but
generally the considerations apply to developments (or decadence) within one
cultural tradition - Le. where the religious and the artistic sentiment are of
the same formation. The circumstances at Srlrangam are further complicated by
the fact that here the religious sentiment and the artistic sentiment applied are
of two different cultural formations.

It may be useful to conclude these introductory remark3 with an observation

of basic significance. It is the wi3hful assumption of modern Western 'progres-
siviam" that "good" worka, ideas eta. (i.e. those of which it approves) are due
to the commendable efforts of good people. Whereas "bad" works etc. come about
by accidents, Inadvertence or perhaps as the result of the fault of otherwise
good people is not helping or Instructing others auffiaiently to recognize the
"good things".

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This is, of course, a "grotesquerie". What from one point of view are un-
desirable things come into being just as Intentionally as desirable ones. They
represent something sufficiently deslrable from some other point of view to be
wortn the troubic of execution. Some interest was responsible for their creation;
and if they are to be expunged, forbidden or altered, some interest will consider
that it has suffered. This interest will consider Itself as valid as any other
interest and consider It has a right to maintain itself. Failure to recognize
this obvious fact leads to the familiar cycle of expensively worded plans, little
result, and much subsequent recrimination.
.

Serial No. 1222

 II. CONSERVATIONAND RCSTORATIONOF MONUMENTS

A. THE BACKGROUNDTO ITS APPLICATION IN THE PRESENTCONNEXION

In executing missions such as at Srirangam, the writer has enjoyed on occa-

sions the benefit of frank, cordial and illuminating conversations with able men
in positions of great official and financial responsibility. Men who, in various
capacities, have found themselves confronted with the question of the conservation
and restoration of ancient monuments. The sincere earnest interest these people
have in the question is patent. These conversations often bring into focus very
basic considerations uoncerning such work which, in everyday routine, would not
be noticed. As an attempt to pass on some of the benefit derived from these dis-
cussions and the reflection thereby engendered, some preliminary consideration Is
offered of the principles of conservation and restoration as they are relevant to
work in the region concerned.

A3 modern Western art and arohitecture has become less and less traditional
in essence, it has been found impossible to retain an organic unit of development
with the past. Accordingly the expression of,and even the formal train5ng in,
art and architecture has split into two. One part Is concerned with "Modern Art
and Architecture" and the other part is concerned with "Traditional Art and Archl-
tecture" and Its "Conservation and Restoration". The conservation and restoration
of monuments is thus one branch of contemporary Western European Architecture. It
is an art (perhaps a minor one on most analyses) and it must be approached In the
same way as any other art. It Is a manifestation of a spiritual awareness - an
awareness derived from all the clroumstances of the age, and one which changes
with the age itself. An awareness limited in any one age to a certain community
of spiritual possessions, 30 that those standing outside this community do not
share in the awareness.

Thus any small detail of simple, operative work to be effected on fabric of

an ancient monument In the name of "conservation and restoration" is an expres-
sion of the total cultural development of Western Europe,centering in its highly
peculiar attitude towards the past. An attitude which is markedly different from
its former attitudes and an attitude which will change markedly In the future.
Manifestly an attitude which ha3 no real meaning for those formed by another cul-
tural tradition. Such a person simply will not of his own understanding effect
the detail in the obvious manner. That is, "obvious" If viewed from the totality
of the conception of this art of restoration.

This experience is one met with in praotice over and over again. All the
important steps of the work have been completed while some small finishing opera-
tion remains. If this is done spont3neously by someona not trained in these pro-
cedures, It will be done in a manner utterly at verianoe with the artistic aim of
the work. For that aim simply has no reality to the person concerned.

Here Is a simple illustration. A fZnely jointed "dry stone" wall is in

danger of collapse. It is decided to restore it on the beat principles of 'Con-
servation and Restoration of Monuments". It is agreed that the masonry cannot be
Serial No. 1222

I--. ---. .._i..-__

--- ll_--_-l-_.
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strengthened in situ. A5cordingly the blocks are numbered, the wall dismantled,
and then re-erected. In theory correct. But the theory has an aim - to restore
a structurally strengthened wall to its original appearance. This meana each
block must be set back In position with its face unchanged (what happens to its
inner parts is immaterial as they wili not be visible); and also that the jointing
of the rna3onry Is reproduced in exactly the same manner as the original. In
practice what happens Is that large numbers are pa%nted on the visible face of
the blocks to remain after re-erection, and the fine dry jointing is concealed by
a non-functional,auperfluous mortar point%. Whatever may have been the under-
Standing of those responsible, the numbering and pointing (a laborious work) is
in reality directed towards one aim only - to change the original appearance of
the wall. In terms of the professionally conceived aim of the operation it would
be more sensible and less laborious to demolfsh the wall and build a new one, say,
of concrete.

The explanation of these somewhat unlooked for results is only a restatement

of basic facts. A Twentieth century Western European interested in the past is
aware of the "spiritual emptiness" of his age and w%shes on>y to express himself
through the mouth of the more significant past. However, someone of another de-
velopment does not breathe this same spiritual air. He, for example, may be
amazed at the new resources and wealth at his disposal and automatically endea-
vours by the details of his work to advertise that it was done by him in the
"good new days".

Make no mistake. The details of execution of any work of "re5toration"

carried out by someone standing outside the present Western European concept of
this work will be directed to one end only, consciously or sub-consciously. To
renovate, to make the work look new, incorporating all those features which he
has experienced about him since birth - the only features which are real to him.
For example "real" masonry always has mortared pointing and therefore mortared
pointing must be introduced on ancient masonry to make it "real". There I.3 no
question as to the reason for this - it is a part of the fabric of his experience
which is accepted automatically.

Now it must be golnted out that the above analysis is of fact only. The
obvious question of value" to which these facts lead cannot be anmvered here;
nor is the writer able to answer it in any connexion. The question, of course,
is "Whether the canons of the contemporary Western European art of conservation
and restoration of monuments should be applied automatically to the conservation
and restoration of a monument of another culture carried out (presumably) fn the
interests of a people who may share to some degree this culture rather than that
of Western Europe".

All this notwithstanding, in recent years the European concept of conaerva-

tion and restoration has become of world-wide currency. Many extraneous factors
have been at work to produce this result - often economPc ones such as "the de-
velopment of tourism" etc. The upshot is that there is 3 general awareness among
non-professional people in all region3 of the "Conservn.tion and Restoration of
Monuments", 'There is,.ho~ovar,:l9t~le-~owle~e of Its currently accepted aims.
Consequently, there is even less consideration as to whether these same aims are
automatically applicable to cultural areas other than Europe.

This gives risa to a bewildering situation and, potentially, a very mischie-

vous one. People become conscious that old buildings should be conserved and
restored. Therefore under the influence of this new realization, it is accepted
Serial No. 1222
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that "conservation and restoration" is a treatment which should be applied to old

buildings, and that the fabric of old buildings cannot be expected to survive with-
out "conservation and restoration", and that it is very wrong and ignorant not to
apply "conservation and restoration" to the fabric of old buildings.

Thus it Is that attention may be drawn to a granite wall built of blocks

each of the order of a cubic metre. Here several blocks may evidence superficial
scarring caused by percussion or weathering end the anxious question is posed:
"What shall we do to preserve this stone?" This question is unexpected and
bewildering, and the answer 'See that no one interferes with it", appears equally
unexpected and bewildering.

With this new concern for 'conservation and restoration" goes a lack of
understanding of their real, practical limitations. These words do not mean
magic. All that Is material is subject to decay - stones and men alike. By
intelligent research, methods may be discovered to stay or slow down this decay:
but these results are limited in time, they are all more or less temporary. Just
because Twentieth century man is scientifically concerning himself with conserva-
tion and restoration of ancient structures, it does not mean that he can bring
the state of <any material back to its condition when set in place and that he can
keep It in this condition indefinitely. Not no more than he can work like miracles
with his own body and days. Sometimes results can be achieved which will last for
a more or less limited time. Results cannot always be achieved. And no results
can be guaranteed for ever.

B. SOMEGENERAL PRINCIPLES AND THEIR FUZLEVANCEIN THIS CONNEXION

A programme of conservation end restoration is like any other building pro-

w-e, and one of consequence can no more be tackled hand over fist than can the
building of a temple. Conservation and restoration are not some-thing which can
be applied out of a tin or a book. A new architectural composl.tion is being
created and this depends on the harmonious ordering of many separate, Individual
decisions and solutions. In short conservation and restoration are a branch of
architecture. One which, since Its purposes to display to the best advantage
what is of historic value In 3 building, demands 3 specialized knowledge of the
history of architecture.

Obviously the first stage in a project of conservation and restoration of an

ancient monument is to establish the programme. This must be clearly written out,
specifying what the operation is designed to produce. There can be no rational
building unless it is clear what is to be built - i.e., what is the soci3l func-
tion of the proposed building. Similarly with the proposed work on an ancient
monument - Is its subJect a living building (I.e., a building still performing
the social function for which it was designed), or Is it what may be called "a
ruin"?(i.e., in essence a museum piece, its significance for society being prima-
rily its historical or aesthetic qualities)

This distinction is so basic as to condition most of the particular operations

on the fabric. Indeed for greater clarity of hypothesis it might be advisable to
use different terms in describing operations on the fabric of the two different
classes of buildings. For example "conservation and restoration" may be more
properly reserved for "ruins" and "maintenance and repairs" might be applied to
"living buildings'. With many monuments the two concepts may overlap somewhat,
but for any particular portion of the work it should be clear in which of these
interests the work is being carried out.
Serial No. 1222
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Since work of restor3tion and conservation is designed to perpetuate 3n

existing structure in a certain interest, the next stage is a craial one. It
must be clearly defined and written out exactly what is unsrltisfacto~y ii1 the
present condition of the structure with respect to the interest to be served. If
+here is nothing whTch can be pointed out specificslly as unsatisfactory, why then,
nothIng need be done!
F'inally when the unsatisfactory aspects of the structure have been detailed,
then the proposed remedial operations must be specified in corresponding detail.
Statemsnts like "This has to be renovated completely" or "This m3y be renovated
to the extent necessary" are ussless and potentially mischievous.

Such is 811 indication of the vital planning stages, i.e. the programme nnd
specifications of 3 work of conservation and restoration. Next follows the exe-
cution of the scheme.

All the foregoing has served to show that there is no system of conservation
;iLnd restoration which is reudily available for instant application. Therefore it
is quite impossible to give a brief outline of practice which could be drawn on
directly to cover the work under review. However, solely as a means of informing
those concerned with the scope and possibilities of v~ious operations, the fol-
lowing practical notes are provided. I repeat, they do not in any way claim to
be a systematic guide or manual of the subject.

Practical notes on treatment of ancient masonry

The first step in any proposed work on ancient masonry is that the areas
concerned must be carefully examined for any archaeological, epigraphic, and
architectural evidence they may afford (particularly evidence concerning the
original condition of the masonry), and this evidence must be properly recorded.

Interference of eny sort with ancient masonry c8n be Justified only on ono
or both of the following grounds:

(a) Its appearance is no longer befitting.

(b) Its structure is no longer sound.

In any other circumstance tampering with ancient masonry will constitute "destruction".

The appaarance of ancient masonry may demand attention because the surface:

(a) has been spoiled by l&,er painting, plastering, pointing, writing, etc.,
(b) has become soiled by soot, chemical deposits, bat droppings, etc., or
is covered by vegetation,
(c) is wholly, or in part broken, weathered or decayed,

(d) has wholly or In psrt disappeared.

The structure of ancient masonry may demand attention because of:

(3) bodily movement due to failure of foundations or to other stresses,

Serial No. 1222
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(b) 1oss of cohesion due to failure of the mortar or other binding device,

(4 organic disease of the stone,

(d) displacement, datatchment cr destruction of some particular elet,ents

of the structure.

The causes which give rise to these conditions can be seen to resolve them-
selves into human and natural ones. Men persistently interfere with ancient
masonry by painting on it, cutting or quarrying it away, performing industrial
operations on it etc. The natural causes of the deterioration of ancient masonry
are those which are of general application in the physical world. Masonry works
are broken down in the same way as mountains are broken down, viz,, by seismic
disturbances and weathering procsssas like insolation, erosion by wind and water
and the agents they bear including the seeds of plants.

Of the two types of causes it is readily seen that it Is, In general, by

human agency that most damage accrues to ancient masonry. Once having built a
monumental structure, if men depart and leave it abandoned in a desert place it
will survive in very good condition indeed for a very long time.

Before any act of conservation and restoration Is carried out on masonry it

must be clearly established:

(a) What is the unsatisfactory condition;

(b) How this came about;

(c) What is the probable agent of causation.

If there is nothing unsatisfactory in the condition of the masonry, then it must

be left alone. There is no such thing as general reconditioning or preservation
of ancient masonry (or none known to me).
If the condition of the ancient masonry is recognized as unsatisfactory in
one or more respects, a specific effort must be made to improve the situation.
Further, if the cause of the condition is seen to be continuing or likely to rezur,
then if in any way practical, some effort should be made to Inhibit the operation
of the cause. But this is by no means always reasonable or possible.

The operations designed to improve unsatisfactory conditions In ancient

masonry may be grouped as follows:

(1) Removing or cleaning away dirt, markings, coatings or extraneous appli-

cations or accretions to the surface.

(2) Repositioning elements of the original masonry which have become

detatched.

(3) Introduction of new material into the ancient fabric.

r8) Dismantling and re-erection of the original fabric.

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These operations .3re given in the crder of advisability. If +here is nothing

specifically unsatisfactory E;Dout the masonry, leave it completely alone. If the
unsatisfactory condition can be remedied by removing extraneous additions to the
ancient masonry, do this and nothing else. If the original element is available
for replacement do net use nelv matarial. If the masonry can be dealt with --- in situ
do not take it down. In short the best solution to any problem of the conservation
3nd restoration of ancient m3sonry, other things being equal, is that which involves
the least interference with the original fabric.
Some clursory outline as may be thought to apply to local circumstances is
now gi;jen of these operations.

1. Removing and clening away superficial disfigurements

In the local sphere by far the greatest bulk come under this heading. There
3re two reasons for this. The religious Institution has outlasted the artistic
tradition which produced its monuments, and "foik art" has been and IS being ap-
plied universally to this ancient masonry. As far as is possible this mortaring
3Ild p3iIltiIlg etc., should be removed mech3nic&ly by chipping, flaking and brushing
followed by scrubbing with soap and water. Chemical cleaners and removers are to
be used only where necessary and under expert advice.

Secondly there is the rapid growth of vegetation in all crannied walls (and
even sheer ones). This is, of course, the characteristic problem of the care of
masonry in Southern India. In this connexion it must be clearly noticed that a
reasonable amount of occasional verdure does no harm to the appearance of the
masonry. If it likewise did no h3rm to the structure it could well be left alone.
But alasl the forces exerted by plant growth are very great and most damaging to
the structure. Thus every effort must be made to eradicate plant growth from the
face of ancient masonry. Application of chemicals assist in this process, but
fundamentally it can only be properly done by regular m3nuai effort.

The superficial mortaring over or "pointing-up" of the hair line Jointing of

fine masonry In this interest is an abomin3tion. It is much more destructive to
the appearance of the m3sonry than the plant growth, and it is ineffective - the
mortaring flakes away and even provides better 'lodgment pockets" for the seeds.
This practice should be penalised by a fine.

2. Repositioning of displaced or fallen mesonry

This is a vital and elementary work in the crire of ancient masonry. It Is
one, however, which in the nature of things is never carried out, except by some-
one trained in this core. This is clecly demonstrated by experience. Some
"scholarship" Is necessary to recognize -where a detached block belongs, 3nd the
replacing of it is an expression of scholarly self-effacement 3nd respect for the
past, which comes only with "scholarship".

In the absence of this scholarship, when 3 missing element is to be replaced

convenience of handling is the only criterion governing the choice among various
units of original mater&al trvailable. Indeed fer more likely thnn the resetting
of any origin31 elements (even in wrong places) is the removal of original ele-
ments, on the ground that "hey hava become defective or unsuitable, to be replnced
by new work. For example, stone beams may be removed and replaced by reinforced
concrete ones. These are the unpleasant facts of life which must be recognized.

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3. Introduction of new material into ancient masonry

There are two aspects to this type of operation; where the new materiel is
to be exposed to view and where It will be hidden within the thickness of the
wall. That Is, depending on whether the operation is being performed because of
defective appearance or defective structure of the ancient masonry. Very often
the one treatment may Involve both aspects.

The insertion of new material In or on the face of ancient masonry for aes-
thetic reasons , precisely because It is the most evident act of conservation and
restoration, Is the most generally adverted to by laymen and Is most subject to
controversy of a popular nature. Here, above all, must the "restorer" have a
clear Idea of his subject and aim. At one extreme his subject is a fully functional
living building. At the other it is a ruin, fallen and fragmentary, which by
reason of the handiwork of time may be far more picturesque than St-ever was as
a living building.

In the former instance any gaps or damage to face work will be made good so
as to be fndistlnguishable from the original, for the gaps etc., constitute a
blemish. This Is "repair" rather than "restoration". In the latter Instance the
evidence of decay Is the charm and is not to be diminished - i.e., even where it
may be structurally necessary to plug cavities, the surface must be permitted to
retain its broken appearance.

A useful broad distinction can be drawn between what has been called "repara-
tion" and "restoration". With repairs the aim may be legitimately to match up the
new work with the old, i.e. to use the same stone dressed In the same manner and
if necessary artificially patinated to give the same appearance. With "restora-
tion", it is a commonly accepted rule that "new work" must always be distinguish-
able from the original on a reasonably close inspection. However, in no way
should it be of a quality strikingly discordant with the original.

The distinction is afforded by the use of different material, i.e. brick or

mortar instead of stone; or by presenting the same material differently, Le. dif-
ferent setting, different dressing, different patlnation, etc.; or by setting the
new material with its face slightly reces sed from that of the original, thus
throwing It into the shadow and the background as Is fitting. This latter device
is almost universally employed when the new Insertion Is restricted ;Ln area and
is more or less surrounded by the original face of masonry. Small breakages,
clefts, gaping Joints, etc., which are mortared up are always done in this fashion.
New mortar should never be brought flush with the face of old stone, and to smear
new mortar over the face of the old stone only constitutes "destruction".
Certainly In no case should new masonry ever be set in advance of the original
wall face, as nothing must ever be done which will obscure or confuse the original
lines of the building.

The introduction of new material unseen into the body of ancient masonry for
structural reinforcement is a factor little appreciated by laymen. However, since
it frequently offers an alternative to dismantling and re-erecting, its importance
is great. For this reason it is referred to here, although engineertig knowledge
is necessary to put such things Into practise.

Theoretically it is better not to build foreign materials into an ancient

structure, as there is always a possibility that some unwonted reaction may

Serial No. 1222

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develop between two ill-assorted components. That is to say, where possible it

is better to strengthen internally with the same materiai as the original construc-
tion. However, with understanding and due precaution foreign materials are incor-
porated into ancient masonry. Where necessary load-bearing stone walls may be
transformed, In pest, into framed structures of reinforced concrete or structural
steel. The essential thing to notice is that this Is dona only where necessary
and to preserve the oi*iginal appearance. It is thus the very antithesis of un-
necessarily introducing reinforced concrete elements where they can be seen.
One particular method of Introducing new material into the core of an ancient
masonry structure in order to strengthen it is what is called "grouting". Cement
grout is a fluid mixture of cement which can be run into the interstices of ancient
masonry with the result that a structure decemented and honeycombed with voids,
can be converted once more into a strong coherent mass. And if proper care is
taken there will be no external sign of this operation.

Grouting provides a remedy for a situation where one element of the masonry,
the rubble and mortar filling, has decayed. Mutih graver is the situation where
the whole body of the stone work itself is organically diseased. This fortunately
is of rare occurrence jp~rursl Indian temples because of the relatively clean at-
mospheric conditions.
To some degree it may be possible to reconstitute such diseased stone by
chemical means, but this can only be carried out by an expert chemist and the
scope and possibilities of the treatment are much more restricted than appears
to be the popular impression. Certainly there is no magic substance which can
be applied to, InJected into, or Infused into stone so as to rejul.enate it or
guarantee it long life. Such ideas are 'quacke.ry'; generally speaking, the only
effect they will have is to spoil the appearance of the masonry.

4. Dismantling and re-erection of ancient masonry

It should be evident that this method of dealing with the defective masonry
is that of the last resort. However, many Instances of its operation are in
evidence locally. The less said about them the better. The intention of this
operation is that after completion the masonry unit is structurally sound and
presents exactly the same appearance as before the operation with the exception
of such defects as have been remedied. The process Is thus entirely dffferent in
aim and organization from demolition of the original structure and the building
of a new structure with the material so obtalned.

Although dismantling and re-erecting has a twofold name, the operation has
four components of equal importance, viz.,

1. Recording.
Dismantling.
;: Storage.
4. Re-erection.

The various units of masonry must be each identified with a number, and their
position shohn on a measured drawing. The blocks must be broken from bond and
removed from the wall. They must be stored so that the position of each block is
known and each block is immediately accessible. The blocks must be taken from
storage and rebonded together in their original order and disposition according
to the manner recorded.
Serial No. 1222
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Equal precautions must be taken dUrlng each of these phases so that t;le
visible faces of the masonry are not disfigured. Thus numbers must be painted
or i?nked only on non-visible parts (until such parts become accessible temporary
numbers can be chalked on the faces of the blocks).

During the repeated handlings crowbars or wire slings must never come into
direct contact with the face of the stone, and protection of the faces may be
necessary during storage. If blocks are dafective structurally they should be
consolidated during storage. No block should be set into the re-erected wall in
a defective condition. Finally it can only be repeated, this operation is a very
demanding one if carried out properly, and Is not to be recommended if alternatfve
in situ treatment is possible.

The preceding notes have been drawn up in response to the observed pecullari-
ties of the local scene. They express, however, only that which is standard prac-
the. T1i2-t this practice is indeed referrable to local needs may be emphasised
by the following short extracts from a guide issued at the beglnnlng of the cen-
tury for those charged with the care of ancient monuments in India. Although not
expressly stated, it is clear that the concern of this guide Is mainly with
%uins", i.e. those ancient monuments whose primary significance for society Is
their historical and artistic interest rather than the original function for which
they were erected. However, basically, the remarks are of general application
and they merit the closest attention as they are very well stated.

"Officers charged with the execution of conservation work should never forget
that reparation of any remnant of ancient architecture, however humble, is a work
to be entered upon with totally different feeling from a new work or from the
repairs of a modern building.... When, therefore, repairs are carried out, no
effort should be spared to save as many parts of the original as possible, since
it is to the authenticity of the old parts that practically all the interest
attaching to the new will owe Itself.

"Local artisans are usually good copyists, capable of Imitating any model
which may be set before them, but unable to make use of their eyes; and bejng
accustomed to work with a stereotyped series of degenerate modern imitations,
they apply them indiscrimlnately, in place and out of it, on all classes of build-
ings.

"One of the principal factors In causing the ruin of brick and &one build-
ings is the growth of vegetation In the Joints, and the only way of dealing with
this evfl is constantly to eradicate the plants before they have the chance of
becoming firmly rooted.

"It is not generally dasirable to demolish or remove, in whole or in part,

any stone or brickwork which it is at all possible to repair in situ. If the
new work has to be inserted, any mouldings or other details, which may have to
be worked on it, should be in strict harmony with the adjoining ornaments. In
removing broken or decayed work do not take ouu+ any, but such as is so far gone
as to have lost all 5ts original form; better to have broken or half decayed ori-
ginal work than the smartest and most perfect new work.

'%Jith regard to walls out of plumb, St is not always necessary to dismantle

and rebuild them. In many cases it will be found that the fault was caused soon
Serial No. 1222
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after the erection of the building by the subsidence of the foundations which,
having pezmancntly settled, are not likely to go any further.

"When dismantling masonry, previous to rebuilding, it is necessary to mark

or number the old stones so as, the more readily, to replace them in their origi-
nal positions. In doing this, care should be taken net to use oil paint, or other
pigment or stain, which will be difficult to remove again. It is better to put
the numbers on the sides or back of the stone rather than upon the face. In any
case, all marks should be removed on completion of the work.

"All the new stone work should be matched in colour with the surface adjoin-
ing it. In some cases, too, where the old stone work has weathered to a darker
tint, it may be necessary, in order to avoid any violent or unpleasant contrast
between the new and old surfaces, to use artificial means for staining the former.

"Accumulation of soil on roofs or other flat surfaces should be removed as

favouring the growth of vegatation. Any openings on terraced roofs, through
which rain water can percolate, should be stopped, and proper drainage provided
for. Cracks on the roof where they are not observable may be pointed; but on the
walls, both exterior and interior, simple grouting (if that ia necessary and
practicable) should be employed. In this process the mortar can be prevented
from coming too near the surface by first stopping the Joints with clay from the
outside, which can be removed when the grouting within is dry.

"If the new stones are accurately dressed, so as to fit closely to one
another, there will generally be no necessity for mortar or any cementing material
in the Joints. Old stone buildings were originally erected, as a rule, entirely
without mortar. In no case should any mortar be seen upon the surface of tne
work, where the mortar has not been used originally. Nor should pointing, as it
is generally understood in India, be permitted, on any account, either in brick or
stone work, except in places where it is not exposed ta view. Pointing on ancient
buildings is an anachronism which cannot bc too strongly guarded against. All
mortar Joints, in which, during previous repairs, tne mortar has not been confined
to the Joint, but has been smeared over the adjacent stone, should be carefully
scraped.

"As a rule broken lintels or beams may be supported by skilfully stirruping

them up from above, or if that is impracticable by inserting angle iron beneath.

'The use of whitewash or paint, especially on sculptures and inscriptions,

should be forbidden. If it is contemplated to remove any from an old surface,
precautions must be taken to prevent injury to any inscription, relief or painting
beneath:

"Immsdiately, after the completion of repairs to any monument, the building

and its surroundings should be cleaned and tidied up. No mortar wheels, mortar
heaps, brickbats or the like should be left behind."

Serial No. 1222

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APPENDIX 1

PREVENTIONOF GROWTHOF VEGETATION ON ANCIENT MONUMENTS

?'hat vegetation plays an active part in the destruction of temples and

other ancient monuments is a fact very well known. It is one of the chief des-
tructive influences in a tropical climate. But the custodians of sncient monu-
ments do not, as a rule, seem to take any notice of these growths on the walls,
either when they are but small plants, or even after they are deeply rooted, and
consequently buildings are damaged to such an extent that heavy sums have to be
spent in their restoration, though no renovation can restore the original beauty
of the structure.

Some custodians do make a show of removing the leaves and stems leaving
the root to again produce a new and probably more luxuriant growth than before,
and as the roots expand with the growth of the plants, the masonry, however
heavy and solid it may be, is invariably forced out of position, and,if not checked
in time, will ultimately fall into ruin. All this could be avoided at little or
no expense by the removal of young plants whenever they appear in any Joints of
the masonry.
The attention of the custodians of ancient monuments should be drawn to the
fact, that the first and foremost duty to be done in preserving such buildings
is the constant removal of such growths to the very end of the root.

That the ancient Hindus were not unaware of the evil effects of vegetation
is evident from the fact that, in many important temples, due provision has been
made in the accounts for the annual clearance of vegetation, though in practice,
it is not now done in the manner in which it should and ought to be done, and is
in most cases neglected."

(General Principles for the guidance of those entrusted with the custody of, and
execution of Repairs to Ancient Monument - Government of India, 1305.)

A chemical treatment to deter the growth of vegetation on walls is a wash of

1lh $ solution magnesium chloride. If paint is to be applied, then it is possible
to make use of special paint which contains a fungicide. The efficacity of such
measures is probably not great. I have seen gopuras painted brand new and stated
to be treated with chemicals, yet for all that they have sprouted luxuriant foliage
in the two or three years since their redecoration.

Regular efforts must be made to remove all saplings and small shrubs by
hand. Usually they can be so removed without disturbing much masonry. If there
is some difficulty in this they should be cut off as near the root as possible,
and stump killed by chemical means (by applying a corrosive acid, e.g. nitric
acid). Subsequently the decayed roots can be removed more easily. When treating
masonry affected in this way it is most essential that all decayed roots and
vegetable matter should be completely eradicated.

Serial No. 1222

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APPE'KDIX 2

GROUTING

This Opel-ation is designed to strengthen a wall by replacing the internal

cementing component which has dacayeci leaving voids in the structtx?e. There is
considerable application for this process in repair work on South Indian temples,
but it seems rarely put into effect.

Liquid cement is called cement grout. Cement will not adhere to dust or a
dry surface, and if the liquid is injected into a wall which has not been cleaned
and washed out,it merely sets in an independent mass and fails to perform the
function for which it is intended. A plentiful supply of water preferably by
hose from matis is necessary for this vital prelimi;?ay washing.

Testing for voids is made by tapping with a hammer - a dull or hollow sound
indicates voids, otherwise a solid or ringing sound is produced. Suspected voids
should be marked on the face of the wall.

Small holes should be drilled where voids are anticipated, say 4 feet apart
horizontally and 2 feet above each other vertically in a staggered formation.
Naturally advantage should be taken of conveniently situated Joints, fissures etc.,
for introducing these holes into the masonry.

It is usual to carry out large-scale grouting operations ste&i.ng at the base

of the wall and working upwards in horizontal sections of about 4 feet in height.
The cavities first should be washed out by flushing with water from above to
obtain an outwash at the bottom of the section, and continuing this process until
the water runs out clear. The process can be assisted by rodding the cavities
with a metal poker.

Careful note should be taken of where the water runs out from the face of
the wall and before commencing to grcut, such fissures should be plugged tightly
with clay a&or tow which should be pressed in for a depth of 5 cm.

Tne inJection of the grout can be provided for by a simple device. This
consists of a mixing-pan, hose and nozzle provided with a stopcock. The pan
(preferably coupled with another) is a galvanized iron, domestic washing-copper
having an outlet at the bottom. This connects by means of couplings to several
2 metre lengths of 11/2" rubber hose which terminate in a galverlized iron nozzle,
9" diameter fitted with a stopcock. Additionally a wooden plug is provided
about 50 cm long which will fit into the hole at the bottom of the pan. A further
au,ziliary device is a suction "drain-cleaner' i.e. a long wooden handle set on
an Indian rubber cap.

The cement grout is mtied in the proportion of three parts water to two parts
cement. The pan is suitably filled with water and then the cement emptied into
the water and stirred continuously until the required consistency of grout is
obtained, with all the cement in suspension ald no solids remaining at the bottom
of the pan. To economize it is sometimes possible to use very fine sand of the
same specific gravity as the cement as a one-to-one mixture with the cement.

Serial No. 1222

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The following preliminary precautions are necessary:

(1) All cavities thoroughly washed out.

(2) Open Joints plugged with tow or clay.

(3) A supply of clean water available for instantaneously washing from the
face of the stone work inevitable scapes of the mixture.

The machine is operated as follows: The pan should be about 10 feet above
the point of inlet to give a pressure of 14 - 18 lbs. per sq. inch. Preferably
two men are stationed on the scaffolding by the pan, one regulating the flow of
the grout into the delivery tube, and the other preparing and mixing the second
pen of grout. One other man controls the nozzle. He inserts it into the lowest
hole and plugs it around with tow. When all is ready the wooden plug is raised
and the grout flows down the tube and the stop-cock is opened so that the mixture
flows into ,the cavity.
The operation should continue without removing the nozzle until the grout
rises up the wall and begins to flow out of the series of holes immediately above.
The stop-cock is turned off and the nozzle is allowed to remain in position until
the cement has begun to set, i.e. when it has reached the consistency of putty*
The nozzle is then withdrawn and washed in clean water. The Joints are also un-
plugged. At the end of the day's operations the equipment should be washed clean
in water.

When a complete wall is to be grouted the sequence of operations will depend

upon its size and the condition of the masonry. If it is of great height, it
will bc dangerous to commence washing out from the top and continue to the bottom
without taking precautions like shoring to prevent the collapse of the face stones.
In such case it is advisable to commence at the base of the wall, take a height of
about 6 feet along its length, bore the holes where required, wash out the cavities
from the top of the section, and then commence grouting from the bottom holes;
and soon working upwards instages until the full height of the wall has been
treated.

When as often happens, cavities penetrate through the thickness of the wall,
the preliminary operation of cutting holes and cleaning and washing out must be
carried out on both sides of the wall. In such cases observation must be kept on
both sides of the wall while washing out and grouting is in progress in order to
stop any leakages.

Serial No. 1222

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III. THBTFMPLEOFSXRANGAM
PROPOSEDCONSEWATION AND J33STORATION

A. GELPROGFUUWlE
The basic consideration which has conditicned proposals of restoration or
conservation work on the Temple of Srirangam is that it is a living building an3
not a ruin. This building is still perfcrmi~ng the function for which it was
designed. Primarily the building is to worship in and only secondarily to be
looked at. Thus the aim of any proposed measure is not to display a muser.Lm
piece to the best advantage, but to maintain end/or restore all the virtues of
the building whti-h its designers envisaged; and at the same time not to dero-
gate from the artistic/historical interest the building has acquired from sur-
vival through a number of centuries.

As a result of a detailed survey of the montment, the consultant does not

consider it in any way practical to formulate or Implement such a general pro-
gramme dealing with the Temple City of Srirangam in toto.
For reasons detailed in the report it is considered that a practical pro-
gramme of conservation and restoration must be confined initially to a unit of
the temple compound which is:

(a) under administrative control of the temple authorities;

(b) accessible to non-Hindu visitors;

(c) of artistic end historical *aterest.

It is suggested that the area of tne Horsemen Msndapa and the Thousand
Pillar Mandapa, with the direct approach thereto by way of the E&t Mottai
Gopura, the Kaliyuga Gopura and the Vellai Gopura constitutes a unit meeting
these requirements.
Accordingly, as a practical step, a programme of work should be drawn up
and implemented initially for this area only.

B. PRESENT DISPOSITION OF TEMPLE

When the temple complex of' Srirangam attained its present limit in
ViJayanagar times (c.1520 AD..), it then constituted a 'Etimple-'Eown, a..vasUy dif-
ferent organization from its present Condition which is that of a temple and a
town. Originally the outer prskaras were designed to serve the more mundane
needs of the sanctuary, e.g. to provide temporary accommodation for visiting
pilgrims and worshippers, and to house the temple servants end service facilities.
That is, all who were inside the enclosure walls were there for some reason con-
nected with religion. At some time between that date and the present this state
of affairs began to change. Now the outermost three prakaras of the tempie con-
stitute a township, the inhabitants of which have i&-so facto no more conncxion
with the religious life of the temple than have the inhabitants of any other
urban district in the neighbourhood. The history of this development is not

Serial No. 1222

 - 22 -

clear, and it is subject to misrepresentation by the various parties interested.

Certainly at the present day the outer three prakaras are administered by a
municipality, anti the temple authorities have no jurisdiction here. It seems
that the municipality was set up about 1871.

??-,e find&mental importance of this development for any 'conservation and

restoLation" scheme at Srfrangam Temple is imnediately obvicus. The outer three
prdkaras (about 803 of the area) of the complex are packed with poor, modern
housing and squatting, which encroaches on all ancient masonry. Over this
sector of the complex the temple officials exercise no administrative authority,
but the proposed programme of conservation and restoration work is to be carried
out by these officials. The situation in itself is a matter of concern; how-
ever, this situation is interlocked with another situation to produce added
concern.
Attention has been drawn tc the twofold interest of the Sri.rangam Temple
complex - the religious and what may be called the historical/arti%tic interest.
So Par as the latter interest is concerned it will be shared by many who do not
practise the Hindu religion. Now if the division of the complex into a holy of
holies and seven surrounding prakaras is adopted it must be pointed out that
there is by no means complete freedom of access over all these compartments.
The non-Hind.g visitor, in the nature of things, will never be allowed to enter
the inner parts of the temple, i.e. the 3rd prakara and beyond.

However, as has been indicated, the outer prakaras (5th, 6th and 7th) have
become a modern township which in itself most ce3ainly possesses no aesthetic
appeal. This leaves only the 4th prakara (in part) which is at one and the same
time accessible to the non-Hindu and has remained under religious control and
not been occupied by modern housing. That is to say, the features of artistic
and hi.storical interest accessible to the non-Hindu visitor are in effect the
gcpures and the two msdapas on the east of "yhe 4th prskara - the Horsemen Man-
. dapa and the Tho;lsand Pillar Maudapa. And of these features oilly the mandapas
and one gopura are under the administrative control of the teq.Ae authorities.

Whatever these facts may imply ultimately they are important and must be
ciearly realized and kept firmly in mind. Perhaps some of their immediate im-
plications may be expressed in a practical mmer as follows:
For the mise en valeur of the Temple of Srlrangam from the non-religious
point of vie:?, without doubt, the most oignificant measure wculd be comprised
in the clearing of elements of the modern suburb v;hich have infested and sur-
roundea the temple enclosure. Swh measures are demanded solely from the
artistic/historical interest. They are manifestly against the interest of the
municipality and they are not in any way demanded by the indigenous religious
interest. The temple precinct has been populated and built over in the last few
generations in the manner described, i.e. with buildings masking monumental
facades and partly blocking approaches etc. and this has not interfered with the
sanctity, or the religious operations of the temple inthe eyes of the faithful.
Indeed, recent modern temples have been built as lean-tos! against the ancient
monument, and neither the modern nor the ancient has suffered in the local view.
This statement is undeniable and axiomatic, for if these developments had been
derogatory in local estimation they would never have been permitted to take
place.
Serial No. 1222
 -a-
Since the prime purpose of Srirangam Temple is to provide a place of worship
for practising Hindus at a locality of special sanctity, and since this interest
is not incommoded by the modern building, then it is unlikely that any expro-
priation will be arranged. Rather, judging from recent activities both at
Srirangam and elcewhere, it is more likely that additional modern building will
take place. In the circumstances it does not seem profitable to draw up any
schedule of expropriation and ciearan2e.

c. APPROACHAND SURROUND
Approach to Srirangam Temple is from the south by the Ammamandapa Road
leading to the Raya Gopura. This road is pleasant eno;h in itself and is lined
with various small monuments. In particular on the west side of the road, about
half a mile from the entrance there is a small modern temple. This is in pleas-
ing condition and forms an excellent contrast to the monumental complex of
Srirangam. The small "domestic" temple is a Vinayagar Temple built or re-
f;.shioned on the site of an old mandapa. It should be kept in good condition
with the brightly painted stucco decoration always newly maintained. so far as
the aesthetic presentation of Srirangam Temple is concerned, this small temple
should be regarded as part of the artistic misc en scene. The proximity of
this popular, colourful decoration may in some way reduce the compulsion to in-
corporate unnecessarily such decoration within the Srirangam Temple confines.

The entrance square or place was obviously designed to show the complete
facade of the Raya Gopura. Because of recent fidevelopment" it does not now do
so, and other Interests are such that it cannot be made to do so. This im-
mediately introduces one of the principal realities of a programme of mise en
valeur at Srirangam. The most basic and significant measures are socially im-
possible to carry out, and there should be no delusion on this soore.

However (in all humility of purpose) at least the masonry of the gopura
should be entirely revealed for inspection, i.e. the physically abutting modern
constructions must be removed to the degree necessary to permit circumambula-
tion. This has been done on the east side of the entrance, but on the west it
cannot be done because here the modernRamanjuja KudamTemple abuts on the go-
pura. Further words in this connexion are useless.

The worshipper and religious pilgrim will enter into the temple by the
direct way through the Raya Gopura as aiways. If, however, there is any serious
concern for " tourists" (it is by no means evident that this is warranted), then
some further thought may be given to the manner of approach and entrance by
tourists. The mere magnitude of the temple area is the quality most likely to
impress, or be understood by tourists, and before entry they should be driven
completely round the outside of the temple precinct. Thus some attention
should be given to the circuit road. At the moment it is in quite good order
and follows closely the line of the walls. Only in the north-east quarter a
detour is necessary. In this quarter tine road should be made good and every-
where the clearest possible aspect of the prakara walls should be ensured from
this road.
Having brought tourists around the outer wall it may be that a more :l;uit-
able entrance can be arranged for them than through the Raya Goprrra. This

Serial No. 1222

-~- --.--_
 - 24 -

entrance way shows a crowded scene of "sub-town" life, but such is readily avail-
able in India, and it is cot necessary to visit a temple in order to enjoy it.
Why not develop a special "tourist entrance' to the temple complex from the east,
through the East-Mottai Gopura? There are many advantages which may accrue from
this proposal. Such an entrance way leads directly into the Horsemen Mandapa -
Thousand Pillar Mandapa complex. This oomplex ccnstitutes the main tourist in-
terest (and for quick "party visit 3, could well be the whole interest). Further-
more the short straight way enters by the most interesting of the unfinished
gopuras (the East-Mottai) and passes through the two largest and best developed
of the completed gopuras, the Kaliyuga Gopura and Vellai Gopura. If one or both
of these gcsuras were cleaned out internally and put in commission for tourists
to mount by its internal circulation system, they would then experience to the
best advantage gopura architecture, and secondly they will have the best point
of vantage for getting a bird's eye view of the whole temple system.
Finally, and what is perhaps most significant, any special provision in the
interests of tourists which may be advisable is much more readily carried out..b
this quarter, where tine modern building is less dense and does not encroach so
narrowly on the passage way. The disagreeable feature of overhead powerlines is
not so pronounced and the problem here is sufficiently restricted that it is
possible to deal with it. Whereas it is almost inconceivable that anything can
be done with the dense network of trunk lines traversing the southern approach.
Thus the establishing of a separate eastern tourist approach would take some
pressure off this otherwise obtrusive problem. For it is a problem which is
raised by the l'tourist' interest, since manifestly the presence of overhead
power lines does not impair the "religious" interest.

D. WALLS
One of the principal glories of South Indian Hindu Temples is the magnifi-
cent stone masonry expressed i;? their walls. The blocks vary in size from normal,
through massive to megalithic, and they are dry set with hair-line jointing.
This masonry does not belong to the European tradition where interchangeable,
orthogonally cut blocks are completely dressed ready to be set in a course of a
given height. On the contrary, each block is specially shaped in situ to fit
its neighbours. Thus the angles are very often not right-angles, and there may
be more sides to the face than four, and two neighbouring blocks may be of con-
siderably different heighlzs. The vibrant, living appearance of this varied pat-
tern of fine lines is a master work.

The strength of such masonry is of course enormous. Mortar is triply re-

dundant because of the mass of the blocks, the perfect dressing of the beds, and
the interlocking structure. To see such a stretch of masonry, weathered golden
in a sunlight softened by the surrounding verdure is a privilege. It is this
classic backdrcp which gives the balance to India architecture permitting luxur-
iant decoration to be expressed in appropriate places.
It is no secret that this glory and necessity of Indian architecture has
been and is being continually despoiled and defaced. These destructive activities
which in the past were prompted by "religious" motives or decorative instincts,
have at the present time become wholesale and endemic under the guide of "con-
servation and restoratio;l". In a living temple Eke Sriraniam it is now general
that the only .expanses of masonry left unspoiled are those which are not normally
visible or out of convenient reach.
Serial No. 1222
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With determined purpose the hair-line Jointing has been smeared over with
a false mortar "pointing", utterly without function but which effectively trans-
forms the appearance of master-works of masonry into that of crude, ill-set
village walls. Having demeaned the character of monumental masonry into that of
a house wall, not unnaturally it is generally treated in a corresponding way,
i.e. it is covered with whitewash or paint so that It is no longer apparent
whether its construction is of stone, brick or mud. Then, "to bri,ng out the
beauty" (as officials have explained to me), a network of white lines may be
painted on it crudely representing contemporary stone setting. Sometimes this
wears away and further cement false pointing is applied over the whitewash!

Reese practices and tendencies have not been passed over in silence. Hut
prohibition has had no effect. The General Principles for the Care of Ancient
Monuments published by the Government of India at the beginning of the present
century deals most specifically with this plague: 'The use of whitewash or
paint especially on sculptures... should be forbidden....

3 no case should any mortar be seen upon the surface of the work, where
mortar has not been used originally. Nor should pointing as it is generally
understood in India, be permitted on any account . . ..except in places where It is
not exposed to view. Pointing on ancient buildings is an anachronism which can-
not be too strongly guarded against. All mortar Joints where during previous
repairs the mortar has not been conflned to the Joint, but has been smeared
over the adjacent stone, should be carefully scraped".
If any regard whatsoever had been paid by religious authorities to these
simply expressed, common sense directives, there would now be-little need for
programmes of restoration; certainly there would be no need for the presence
of "experts" to advise on such programmes.

The aim of programmes of restoration is to reveal the original work of art

freed from disfiguring accretions. So far as South Indian temples in general
and Srirangam Temple in particular are concerned, the prime measure (and that
of overwhelming preponderance) consists in strlpping this mortar, whitewash and
paint from the fine masonry which comprises these structures.

Since this activity is the very antithesis of current activity concerned

with the fabric, it is doubtful whether such measures as specified are socially
acceptable. If they are not then it is submitted that there is no useful pur-
pose in discussingor planning programmes of conservation and restoration based
on "Western" principles. The results will be but confusion and recrimination.

The prime and principal recommendation for a programme of conservation and

restoration at the Temple of Srirangam is to make the implementing of the
measures specified above a test. A test of the vital question as to whether,
in the social circumstances obtaining, "Modern Western" principles and practices
of conservation and restoration apply to living Hindu temples.

Accordingly at Srirangam Temple in the selected area comprising the Vellai

Gopura, the Horsemen Mandapa and the Thousand Pillar Msndapa, the first self-
contained stage of a programme of conservation and restoration must be the strip-
ping from the masonry (walls end pillars) of all false mortar pointing, white.-
wash end paint. This unit has been chosen partly because this particular prob-
lem is here reduced to manageable proportions.
Serial No. 1222
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If this operation cannot be carried through in a reasonable time (one to

two years), then any further involvement with the restoration programme should
be strongly discountenanced. Such a restoration programme would be, in effect,
proceeding on principles and practices basically differeat from those current in
the West; and a pragmatic demonstration would have been afforded that some other
principles and practices are more properly relevant to the situation at Sriran-
gam Temple than Western ones. hence experts and advice in Western style restora-
tion would be superfluous and only introduce a factor of confusion.
To strip away the recent squalor from the ancient masonry is not a light
matter. It will involve well-organized, sustajned work - and "do-nkey work" to
boot. There are no wonder-working chemical processes. The bulk of the second-
ary material must be removed by the manual effort - strenuous manual effort init-
ially and the delicate manual effort finally. Time, intelligent and understanding
direction, sustained organizatlon of a large labour force will be required, but
not any monumental sums of money.

Should sny fissures or gaps be revealed by this process which it seems de-
sirable to plug, then this should be carrjed out according to standard methods.
If the area is sufficiently large, insertion of facing stone in the original
style is indicated, if the area is small, appropriately tinted, end surfaced
mortar set back from the face of the wall. If structural weaknesses are dis-
covered in the wall, then where possible, grouting may be employed - and thus a
firm example may be set against the current mania for dismantling ancient walls.
Tnis has one true aim only - to transform fine, ancient masonry into poor, modern-
1Doking masonry.

E. TERRACE ROOFS

There are acres of terrace roofs on the Temple of Srirangam and it has been
held that these constitute a pressing problem for any programime of conservation
and restoration. That such terrace roofs constitute a great maintenance problem
is obvious. Perhaps this is a question of definition, but supposing these ter-
race roofs are properly maintained in the traditional fashion then there semms
little concern here for a programme of restoration and conservation.

If earth is allowed to accumulate on the roofs a "roof garden", including

sizable shrubs and bushes, soon develops. This holds in the precipitation, which
is allowed neither to drain nor to evaporate. The continual dampness .eventually
decomposes Eind penetrates the lime rendering and-the brickwork to seep down
between the underlying stone slabs. This process is accelerated by the mechani-
cal destruction of the roofing due to the roots of the bushes snd shrubs.
Most of the troubles with terrace roofs would be avoided by simple adherence
to the directgwes of the Government of India's "General Prticlples", viz., "Ac-
cumulation of soil on roofs or other flat surfaces should be removed as favouring
the growth of vegetation".
The traditional construction of terrace roofs is still widely understood and
practised. It would be a great error to change the construction of the vast
expanse of roofing at Srirangam to a new system full of technic.al elaborations
foreign to the understanding and capacities of the local populace. If it be

Serial No. 1222

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conclusively demonstrated that a full and satisfactory weatherproofing is not
attained even by the properly maintained traditional terrace roofs, then the
remedy lies in supplementing the traditional construction, not in abandoning it.
A simple paint-on, modern weatherproofing agent should be applied to the sur-
face of the lime rendering. In this way the damp.proofing is kept visible on
the surface so that defects are apparent and can be treated immediately by
further applications of the mixture.

Many such preparations are available commercially and have been used to
good effect in the tropics. Invariably they include supplementary mixtures for
sealing cracks or other defects.

Modernization of the roofing system will involve incorporating a DPC within

the construction of the roofing. This is not a very practical measure in the
circumstances. It will be difficult to ensure that this is in fact done prop-
erly over the great expanse of roofing. The opportunity afforded to damage
exposed masonry through spills, leaks and seepage of asphalt etc. is frightening.
No DPi: w?.ll be proof against continual damp held in any accumulations of soil
and vegetation. If failures occur and damp penetrates, then the DPC is not
immediately accessible and large areas of the surfacing must be taken away
before the fault can be located and attention given to it.

One final thing must be stressed. At Srirangam there are many elevated
viewpoints and indeed visitors are specially dlrected to view the ensemble from
such points of vantage. Therefore the colour and texture of the roofs is as
important as the colour and texture of the walls and floors. Whatever measures
are adopted to increase the weatherproofzlng of roofs, the visible surface of
the roofs should rema3.n of a colour snd texture conformable to their traditional
aspect. Glossy red tiles, pitch black waterproofing compounds, shining white
paint would be objectional whatever their efficacity ln reflecting heat or re-
pelling water.

F. FLOORING

One of the nobilities of construction of the Srirangam Temple, as with

other South Indian Temples, is the paving which consists of massive granite
blocks. They are not thin slabs, but solid blocks and the solidity is evident
from their appearance. Furthermore their fine setting presents curving and
interwoven patterns - those of a living organism. The whole aspect is in every
way the opposite of the lifeless appearance of modern, mechanical square
slabbing.

How important this element of paving is in contributing to the "character",

the visual impression of the temple is manifest. The flooring covers an ex-
panse comparable with the walling, and we are brought, perhaps, into more inti-
mate contact with it than with the walls. In the face of these obvious facts
it is astonishing that the common man seems to be unaware that the floor pos-
sesses sny character at all. He will notice a painting or consider it wrcng to
remove a statue, but he either does not notice the floor he walks on, or al&e
wi&es, as a matter of course, to replace it with a new one. "The existing
stcne flooring should be replaced and made an even surface' etc. And yet the
would-be destructive effect of such a proceeding has already been made apparent;

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e.g. the focul Ranga Vilas &ndapa has been demeaned by a new stone paving, which
has destroyed the religio'us and historic atmosphere of this part of the temple
and transformed in into that of any street corner.

This strange outlook has already drawn comment which is worth repeating.
"In many cases the floors of the mandapas are s&d to be in need of renewal.
As far as I could see that is not the case. Except for minor areas the present
flooring is in good order. It may be, indeed, necessary to reset the occasional
stone which Is badly displaced or very badly worn, but the slightly uneven sur-
face of much of this paving contributes In no small measure to the attractive
and mellow appearance of the halls and does not really inconvenience the pedes-
trian". (The renovation and conservation of temples in South India, by
Patrick A. Faulkner, Unesco, October 1966).

At Srirangam and elsewhere this traditional flooring is commonly slighted

in a strangeway. The Jotilts between the blocks are flushed up and the stones
smeared over with mortar, generally of a light colour to contrast with the dark
granite blocks. Since this mortar is of the softest cement applied with no
keying, and is walked on, it naturally crumbles and flakes away. It is beyond
any reason to understand what prompts such an activity. It cannot be thought
that the pavements need structural reinforcing or extra solidity. To the tread
they are as solid as bed rock. The mortering does not help In cleaning and
positively hinders local drainage. The original setting of the blocks is very
close and so cannot cause inconvenience to bare feet, nor even to Western
women's high pointed heeled shoes - but in any event neither these shoes nor any
shoes can be worn inside the temple.

Such rubbish should, of course, be removed from the ancient paving. If the
new areas are to be paved, then unless there Is some c.ompelling reason to the
contrary, the style of the ancient paving should be reproduced as closely as
possible. And no further word should be admitted into discussion concerning the
removal of ancient paving.

G. PAINTING

The question of pstited decoration is undoubtedly that which has aroused

most attention in connexion with recent work on the temples of South India.
Fortunately this question does not baulk so large at Srirangam as elsewhere;
and the area on the eastern side of the temple proposed for the commencement of
conservation work is very largely free of complications from this factor.

The problem of painted decoration on the fabric of ancient South Indian

temples still functioning as religious centres Is a difficult one.
The architecture is "colourful", both figuratively and literally. It is
clearly meant to be painted, and it was painted as part of the original design.
The taste of the modern users of the temples equally insists on painting. The
complicating factor is that the tradition of the original painted decoration
has completely died out. The painted decoration applied now is village work
based on commercial Western influences, e.g. advertisLng and Walt Disney car-
toons. There is no understanding of the architecture which is being decorated.
The various functional elements are entirely disregarded and the fabric of the
monument is treated simply as a convenient hoarding.

Serial No. 1222

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If a temple is regarded as an "Ancient Monument" then the application of

such painting is a travesty. Indeed the one clear solution to these difficulties
is for a temple to be scheduled as an ancient monument. However, this is quite
unthinkable where any worship is performed, and at the moment there is very con-
siderable social pressure and agitation to have scheduled monuments taken out
of the care of the Central Archaeological Service and reconsecrated as tendles.
One very certain effect of such development is that these buildings will be
painted according to the present taste of the worshippers.

That modern, village-built temples should be painted in village style, and

that ancient works of architectWe should be painted in their historic stgle is
empty phraseology. Many ancient works of architecture are now fulfilling the
social function of village temples, and modern artisans can no more paint in
Chola style than they can build in Chola style. If they could, the present
discussion would not have arisen.

Clearly one of the most valuable services which might be performed In the
interests of South Indian Hindu temples would be the establishment of a fitting
scheme of painted decoration for such temples where the fabric is of architect-
ural significance. This would involve developing an understanding between
religio7>s authorities, art historians and local craftsmen. The concept is prob-
ably quite unreal, but it would be interesting to try and push through one such
scheme on a small scale to provide a model.
The scheme, of course, would be based on traditional art forms but with
simplificatztons. The first step would be to determine the proper field for
painted decoration. Here a rule of convenience might be urged strongly: plaster
is a fit vehicle for painting, monumental stone masonry should never be painted.
This would mean in effect that the fine "structure" - superbly Jointed walls,
columns, composite piers - would not be vitiated by paint. The stone would
express its load-bearing function, On the other hand non-load-bearing elements
as parapets, finfals, free-stsnding stucco ornament, could be reasonably painted.

This is only a beginning but the practical significance of such a rationaii-

zation is great for any programme of conservation and restoration. It would
necessitate the removal of large areas of paint and lime wash, often both to-
gether superimposed in several successive coats. To carry out properly sucn an
operation is very laborious. And unless the operation is carried out properly
and completely it may as well not be carried out at all. The aim is to reveal
the stone work in its original condition, not to remove as much as pcssible of
the paint and whitewash, To achieve the latter aim will involve much labour but
will have no beneficial effect whatsoever on the appearance of the monument.

Since the ubiquity of this palnted decoration constitutes a main visual

impact of the monuments,certain realities of the situation must be faced
squarely. The application of irrelevant painting and whitewash to a monument
means that the original art expressed In the monument has passed away from
general understanding. It is dead. Attempts to remove the painting etc., and
reveal the original art are thus inevitably ti the nature of museum operations".

The creation of a monumental work of art and its maintenance both demand
great enthusiasm, energy and understanding. As these qualities disappear, the
monument becomes squalid. It passes from being a building of an "art capital"
or "city" to being a building in a "village". To lessen the squalor the
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_I- -.- I . .
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latter--day populace treat the building in the only way possible for their re-
duced energies. They palzlt and vrazh over it. They facilely cover up dirt which
they cannot eradicate and they convert appearances as far as por;sible to those
with which they are familiar in their dafly lives, and which have some meaning
for them.

TM.s activity hcquirea a religious sanction and the periodic application of

paint ald whitewash tends to be ccznjidered as a religious exercise and duty.
Thus the removal of this "decoration" runs quite counter to modern custom and can
only be presented as a "scientific", antiquarian activity. The -initial reaction
of the common man will be that it is in some measure "desanctifyLng,?@;". Further
the una:ded local energy will barely be capable of the very great efforts re-
c;uired. Since the operation will have little meaning, there will not be suffic-
ient strength of purpose to sustain the necessary "donkey work".

The conclusion to be drawn frcm these remarks may be expressed briefly.

The removal of the squalid lime washing and village painting from monumental
masonry is a vital (indeed, perhaps, the only vital) task in any programme of
conservation and restoration at Srirangam Temple. One of the reasons for con-
fining initial activities at Srirangam to the unit of the east side of the temple
compound is that the problem of removing painting etc. is here relatively re-
stricted. Even so it is doubtful that it will be tackled thoroughly u;lless it
is given the mystique of a "scientific" operation under 'expert" direction.

Since the unit concerned includes several gopuras a final word must be
said about painting in this connexion. The general remarks apply to the lower
stone masonry part of the gopuras. These must be cleaned of their disfiguring
paint and whitewash. Fortunately the upper stucco parts of the facades do not,
show evidence of village painting. Indeed they preserve some evidence of tra-
ditional 'art" painting. Therefore it is absoPJtely necessary that these stucco
facades are consolidated and carefully cleaned before any decision is taken on
repainting them. This ~;ill be possibly the most significant decision 3.11the pro-
gramme and should only be taken after full consideration has been given to every
point of view.

H. SCULPTURE

To devote separate consideration to:the conservation and restoration of the

sculpture at the Temple of Srirangam is barely necessary. However, conditions
at the temple form part of the general situation in South Indian temples and in
this way the question warrants decided notice.

Sculpture in such temples, which is for the most part achitectural figure
sculpture, does not suffer in any appreciable way from natural causes. It is,
generally speaking, executed in hard stone and displayed in sheltered positions.
I3 has suffered and does suffer from human attention.

First there are the stray acts of vandalism, breaking of legs and tails, or
WTeapons, musical instruments and other such accessories. This activity, although
it exists, in not particularly troublesome.

Serial No. 1222

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Secondly, and of much greater significance, is the inimical attention de-

voted to architectural sculpture in the interests of latter-day, village-style
decoration. Piuch of the work has almost disappeared (certainly all detail has
disappeared) under successive coats of whitewash. Other works of special sig-
nificance are despoiled b;r "technicolor" painting in the modern ddvertisement-
hoarding style. However to some degree it i3 possible to remove the evidence
of these activities.

Thirdly, and most catastropic, is the damage to sculpture brought about by

so-called "conservation" activities. A vast deal of architectual sculpture has
been thickly coated, and is kept thickly coated with oil of various consisten-
cies - mainly black paraffin grease. Tnis in turn attracts a thick surface
layer of grime and dust, which is sandwiched with another coating of oil and so
on. This activity is said to protect the sculpture, and has acquired by now a
semi-religious sanction.
Considering these various activities with a view to remedial measures, the
following observations are in point.

The only way to minimize vandalism is to develop a social interest in mini-

mizing it (a somewhat ViSiOnary aim), and to appoint the necessary supervision to
inhibit it. Vandals exist everywhere, and the situation in Southern India does
not seem noticeably bad. That elements broken away from statues should be made
good in either stone or plaster IS absolutely contrary to present-day museum
and ancient monuments practice. Nowever, it appears that, in some circumstances,
Hindu religious interests may insist on such steps being taken.

The coating of sculpture with whitewash is very general; and it is indeed

curious to observe how quickly human activities can change their purpose.
Within a relatively short time the same people, in the interests of reverencing
the same deities, have changed their activities from carving figures in stone to
covering up these figures. In scme ways this thick covering of what now amounts
to plaster can be regarded as a measure of "protection", since it has prevented
the stone from being otherwise defaced. It can be removed in a large part by
chipping - preferably, in the main, with tools softer than stone, i.e. wood.
This is, however, very laborious. After Chipping follows a washing and scrub-
bing; but beyond this, in most instances, some form of chemical treatment will
be demanded. It is easy to say that this should be carried out by qualified
technicians, but such men are rare and the acreage of whitewash to be removed is
enormous. Solutions of formic or acetic acid are recommended as chemical re-
movers. They are doubtless perfectly effective if the stone surface is dressed
completely smooth. However, when the surface is dressed with a punch or saint,
the lime remains obstinately in the small indentations to give a leprous ap-
pearance . This can be seen in several South Indian temples where efforts have
been made to remove lime wash f'rom stone sculpture. It may be that the final
treatment is the mechanical picking or scraping cut of all residual specks.
Truly an endless labour.

The associated nuisance of 'painting" can only be tackled by chemical

means. The most commonly available paint solvent is "thinners" of some sort.
However, if a specific programme of paint remova 1 is lxndertaken, bearing in mind
that technicians are not readily available, it would be sensible to obtain
stocks of a reputed paint remover, i.e. one not containing alkali and which has
been used for work on important monuments.
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So much for the removal of whitewash and paint from stone sculptures. To
prevent future application in a living temple will be very difficult. Whitewash
and paint are applied not by chance or mischance, butt because, according to
contemporary understa;;lding, it seems normal, proper and fitting to do so. In-
deed the process of removal will occasion much b;ondermeM, and some opposition.
Concerning the "protective" oiitig or greasingof sculpture it is difficult
to know what to say. From the point of view of ancient monuments the practice
is in the nature of a scandal. It apparently was fostered by an uncritical re-
port of treatment applied to the Egyptian obelisk set us in London, known as
Cleopatra's Needle. The circumstances operating there and those in South Indian
temples are entirely different. Moreover the treatment to the obelisk was found
on investigation to be entirely nugatory. Any effect was transitory and useless.

Remedial action against this abuse in Indian temples would best take the
form of bringing to bear every available influence (including legal penalties)
to ensure that tine practice is discontinued. As much as possible of the surface
filth can be removed by wiping; and finally it is to be hoped that time, the
universal healer, will work for the common good.

J. GGPURAS

The gopuras are at the heart of the problem of any programme of work at
Srirangam, and the problem centres in the external appearance presented by the
ornamental plaster-work fasades of the steeply pitched roofs of "spires". Struc-
turally there is no problem. The lower portions of the gopuras are stone built,
and the general provisions regarding the care of masonry work apply here. The
multi-storeyed roofing is constructed of timber columns and celling beams with
the external walls or corbelled courses of brick. A very stable and resilient
construction. Any work on these structural elements fs simply in the nature of
"house repairs"; timller being renewed with timber and brick with brick.

The interiors, at present, harbour the dirt and dust of the ages as is. ln-
evitable. To clean out the interiors is a big job: to keep them clean a bigger
one. Here the only possible procedure is to appoint a guardian for every gopura
and make him responsible for daily cleaning. The gopuras are invariably wired
to the summit for electric lighting, with light flttjngs installed on the facades.
If these useless and damaging external fittings were transferred to illuzninate
the pitch-black interior, then several benefits would accrue. Not on& would
circulation be facilitated and the walls and celltigs relieved from soot blacking,
but an additional weapon would be provided against infestation by bats - light
and human presence alone being of service in this troublesome connexion.
So far as the treatment of the plaster-work facades is concerned,a beginning
can be m&e by pointing out that there exist two alternative and mutually exclus-
ive approaches. Esther this plaster work must be treated ln the traditional
fashion, i.e, periodically renewed by local craftsmen, if not allowed to decay
completely; or else it must be conserved and restored according to currently
accepted prinCipb?S of conservation of ancient monuments. The important thing to
realize is that there can be no mixing (that Is within one gopura) of these
approaches.
SerialXo. 1222
 - 33 -

If local craftsmen are.in charge of the work, then they must work according
to their understanding and renew the facade. It is useless giving them in-
structions to conserve what can be maintained of the old and, and, and, etc.
All this means nothing to them. Or means madness. It may be that renewal is the
only practical solution. It is, after all, the process which has produced what
we are now anxious to conserve. Perhaps it is difficult for a visitor to accept
that all this plaster work is of relatively recent renewal. However, this isquite
possible. A similar feature occurs in Persian mosques. The visitor admires
the "ancient" coloured tile revetment, and cannot credit that every tile has
been rerlewed within oldest living memory. But this seems to be so.

E%uthow true this situation is of 1968 and how true it will remain in future
is another question. This crucial matter has been considered by Gravely, and his
remarks maJ be quoted here. "The plaster covering the upper part... has neces-
sarily to be renewed periodically; so there is always a danger that the original
feature will be lost... Fortunately... tradition dies hard, and I have seen at
least one temple in which plastered features have retained their original
(Pallawa) character for over a thousand years... though changes are now apt to
be made more readily. May full descriptions and illustration of all those of
importance be recorded before it is too late". (The Gopuras of Tiruvannamalai,
Madras 1959, p.2.)
On the other hand, if it is decided to treat these plaster-work facades
in accordance with Western principles, then several things must be realized.
First, it will be necessary that someone trained in conservation and restoration
is on the scaffolding directing t'ne work the whole of the time. As remarked
above, it is impossible to give general instruction to local craftsmen. Secondly,
this work can only be carried out by some trained person working had over fist.
That is, it is impossible to lay down en abstract of the treatment. The work
will present no problem to a person on the scaffolding, but it cannot be use-
fully formularized here. Consolidation of all large fragments by use of ad-
hesives, sealing of the limits of sound areas by new plaster, removal of decayed
and de-cemented plaster, plugging small gaps with new plaster, leaving exposed
the brick backing of large gaps: this is the obvious outline, but it will not
help an untrained person, and a trained person will not need it. Finally it
must be realized that the result of this treatment will be meaningiess and dis-
tasteful to local eyes.

Between or outside these alternatives one or two remarks may be made.

Since there are a number of gopuras, it may be that a sensible scheme would be
to allow one or several to be renewed in the traditional way, and to try and
conserve the others by the Western method. Again, if the temple could be con-
ceived of entirely as an "ancient monument', then to do nothing at all to the
bulk of this plaster work and allow it to fall away would be an entirely satis-
factory solution. The exposed structural brick, unobtrusively conserved, would
be very acceptable to Western taste.

The numerous gopuras at Srirangam may be considered in two classes - the

finished and the unfinished. The four gopuras in the outermost prekara wall
are all incomplete, and these incomplete gopuras present certain peculf&r:'
problems Of COnSerVatiOn. On the other hand, their unfinished condition can be
regarded as an asset from the visitor's point of view.
Serial No. 1222

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It is not co.mmonly realized how interesting unfinished structures are;

particularly when several identically planned units exist. Since so much in-
formation is thereLy afforded concerning materials and methods of construction,
it is much more interesting and instructive to see one completed feature and
several other similar ones in various stages of completion, than It is to view
a repetition of identical complete units.

In this way the incomplete gopuras are an undoubted attraction. The main
Raya Gopura demonstrates to the best advantage the entire stone construction,
with good light and no bats. The western and eastern Mottai (unfinished)
gopuras remain at plinth level, thereby revealing the gogura plan at a glance.
Also, since the megalithic pillars are in place, the basic "frame" construction
is clearly revealed (this is not apparent in the finished gopura). The masonry
part of the eastern gopura is half built and clearly shows how the megalithic
pillars areincorporated in the construction.

With these advantages in mind, it would be regrettable if every effort were

not made to render all this information as clearly apparent as possible. To this
end the following provisions may be noted.

&ya Gopura . The removal of modern building which has encroached all round
the gopura to permit of (a) full aspect, (b) close ins2ection, has been mentioned
under "APPROACHAND SURROUNU". The situation is even worse inside the prakara
wall than outside. Clearly nothing can be done in this matter.

On what can be seen of the gopura, the main eyesore is the tangle of electric
power wiring and fittings. Again it is hardly likely that anything can be done
about this matter. This apart, the external masonry only requires the-routine
attention, i.e.'removal of whitewash, paint;:mortar, etc. applied in recent years
and the regular rooting out of vegetation.
The absence of the pyramid roof raises the question of the functional
"finish" to be applied to the abandoned upper limits in the interest of conserva-
tion of the fabric. This has been fully dealt with by the Faulker Report. Its
provisions in this connexion may be repeated here. '.... (surface) soil must be
removed and replaced by clean hardcore or ballast as a base for the waterproof
topping or paving which could consist of a concrete slab sealed with a bit'umen
or bitumenizeo hessian membrane blinded with sand, on which could be laid a 3 to
4 screed. Roth membrane and screed should be taken over the top of the exposed
gate passage lintels of the Raya Gopura. Particular attention must be paid to
falls to ensure a quick getaway for rain water. The paving might be placed at a
level rather below that of the surviving upper courses of masonry facing so that
the latter would form a parapet'!.

A final remark may be hazarded in connexion with the Raya Gopura. Although,
regarded with an outside mentality, the complications in revealing to view tne
Raya Gopura seem insuperable; perhaps the situation may not be so entirely hope-
less as it seems. Fo;oces within the community, not normally anticipated, might
be made to operate in this interest. Enthusiastic proposals have been made to
'complete" the gopura by building up the missing superstructure and so discharge
a sacred duty to Ac,hyuta who "did not live to see the completion of the work".
This would entail a vast expenditwe. If local enthusiasm can envisage raising
such sums perhaps it might be persuaded that a more rational way of discharging a
 - 35 -

'sacred duty" owed to the Vijsyanagar King would be to provide for the expro-
priation and demolition of the squalid modern encroachment which conaeals and
dishonours his noble work.

West and North Mottai Gopuras. These two unfinished constructions which 8-7'+
potentially so interesting can be displayed to advantage with a minimum of dis-
turbance. If the necessary measures cannot be taken here, then it is useless 'to
contemplate any work at all at Srirangam. With both gopuras the main thing (and
possibly tine only thing) necessary is to remove entirely the squatters' habita-
tions which adjoin and are built over the confines. Since these habitations are
in the main temporary huts of thatch and mud, this should present no insuperable
difficulty. Thereafter the plan of the gopuras would be revealed clearly as a
low plinth of ornate masonry with a grassed over surface.

Soundings should be made into the interior of these two masses to determine
their state of consolidation. If fears were to arise for the ccherence of the
mass because of water percolation, then a wholesale sealing off with hardcore
and a damp proof course could be arranged as for the Raya Gopura. Even if this
proves to be necessary the visible surface should be formed by a top dressing
of grassed soil.

The East Mottai Gopura. This gopura has been almost smothered by modern
building, and permanent-looking building it is. Although it seems unlikely that
powers exist to clear way these encroachments, yet this step must be strongly
urged. The highly ornate masonry (such little of it as is visible) makes this
gopura an individual attraction. And what is equally important, because of
the stage to which it has been completed, it forms a link between the West and
North Mottai Gopuras, and the Rayg Gopura in visually describing the method of
construction employed. Some sort of anti-weathering "ceiling" has been provided.
This should be renovated if necessary and made fully functional.

If the idea was adopted of forming a separate 'tourist entrance' to the

Srarangam complex from the East, then of course attention to this gopura becomes
even more imperative.
The gopuras are without doubt the most interesting architectural features
of the temple complex accessible to 'tourists" for leisured inspection. They
are unfortunately the features which have suffered most from modern "develcp-
ments", indeed they have been abused and defaced to an appalling degree. Added
to this there is inherent difficulty of keeping the interiors clean and present-
able. All these considerations mean that while the task of properly presenting
the gopuras to visitors is a difficult one, it is a most important one. At least
two or three gopuras must be put fully into commission o&side -and in for in-
spection by visitors. Particularly if a tourist entrance is arranged fromrthe
East (and in any event) one of the.gopuras selected as 'a tourist feature' must
be either the Kaliyuga Gopura or the Vellai Gopura.

K. THEVENUGOPALA(SRIKRISHNA)TEMPLE

One of the few monuments of historical artistic interest within the Sriran-
gam complex which can be freely visited by the non-Hindu is the Venugopala Temple.
This is particularly fortunate, since the sculpture which embellishes its ex-
ternal walls is the finest within Srirangam. Indeed the octerior of the temple
Serial No. 1222
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constitutes a remarkable sculptwe gallery, remarkable for the quality of the

aculp+zJre and for 1%~ agreeable setting. From the art lover's goin+, of view
Ynere is semi: concern that this situation may not deteriorate.

This danger proceeds from the religious interest where misgivings are feit
as to the propriety of "mutilated" or "imperfect" images. One view would re-
move all the originals and replace them with "beautiful" new works, exhibiting
*the originals in a "museum". Another view would "repair" or "renovate" 'the
originals. It can only be hoped that scripture may be interpreted so as to
justify leaving the sculptures in their present condition.

Supposing the sculptural decoration of the shrine remains unimpaired, some

thought may be given to the ambience where it is displayed. This has been
stated to be agreeable: it forms a quiet sheltered and secluded gallery per-
mitting very convenient viewing. All this has come about partly:by accident.
The grcXmd level surrounding the temple has risen with the passage of time anJ
now approximates tc plinth height on the shrine - therefore the figures in the
wall niches are at modern eye-level. To expose fully the masorny of the shrine
and avoid damp, the surrounding fill has been cleared back from the walls a
distance of about 4' to 5', and the remaining earth has been retained and paved
in concrete with a balustrade railing off the fosse.

This arrangement is both functional and decorous. Its main shortcoming is

that it renders viewing the decoration of the plinth inconvenient and uncomfort-:
able, and, of course, does not permit of a true impression of the building in
elevation.

An alternative solution would be to clear the ambulatory of its fill to the

original pavement level, so restoring to normal view the complete elevation of
the shrine. Then, to provide for viewing the "sculpture gallery", a raised
gangway of a light metal construction could be erected surroundfAng the shrine.
This would be at approximately the same height as the present footing, and r;i
perhaps a little further removed.

However, the present arrangement is no eyesore, and before interfering with

it, one would like to be sure that any change is for the better.

L. THE 1968 REPAINTING OF SRI CHAKRATHALWAR

SANNIiXI

The Temple of Sri Chakrathalwa, which is one of the most notable sub-
shrines of the Srirangam complex, is conspicuously situated at the west end of
the southern part of the 4th prakara. The aspect of the deity here manifested
is very powerful - the sacred discus of Vishnu, representing the divine Will to
Action. This temple, important both religiously and visually, in the last few
months has been completely coated with paint. This work is not decoration applied
to ornament, it is flat "house painting" in two colours - grey and yellow. The
distribution of these colours, in the main, completely ignores the construction
to which they are applied i.e. grey changes to yellow at an arbitrary line part
way up a column etc., paying no regard to structural divisions of base, shaft,
capital. Apparently the Board of lrustees expressed wishes or orders directed
against this work but the particular religious community of the shrine, providing
their own funds, carried out the work oblivious to any concerns of the trustees.
Serial No. 1222
 - 37 -

Manifestly in practice the trustees have no control over such matters.

Such being the case there is no question of removing this "house painting". The
facade of the "redecorated temple" constitutes the one striking T.ista on enter-
ing the 4th prakara by the main southern apyroach. Since the non-Hindu cannot
penetrate further than the 4th prakara, it follows that these 1968 "decorations"
for long will provide one of his most prominent visual impressions of Srirangam
Temple. The style of the stone architecture of the facade is i.. origin a trans-
lation of a thatched paviiion; and now the monumental stone construction
having been disguised by pa-int, the appearance of the facade has reverted to
that of a flimsy summer-house. To Western eyes it looks exactly like one of
those corrugated iron band-stands, once commonly erected in public gardens,
which has been temporarily decorated for a 'fete".

This overall effect is now established and cannot be altered for a genera-
tion or more, as there is no question of removing this "house-painting". How-
ever, accepting this fact, thought may still be given to the bizarre and mnan-
ingless appearance of the details, where some of the absurdities (to visitor's
eyes) might be eliminated without great to-do. Perhaps with persuasion and
instruction the decorators could be induced to recognise structural feature;
then a little over-painting would suffice to restore rationality, if not seem-
liness, to the recent work. Although a small matter, this would be a step
towards the harmonization of interests. For from this step it may be possible
to argue the point that certain strJctura1 elements are preferably not painted
at all.

M. THEMUSEUM

E3y working non-stop over two weeks at the end of November 1968 the temple
authorities have completed a new, brighly painted museum building in a con-
spicuous position just inside the main entrance to the confines of the temple
proper (the 4th prakara).

Various parties have considered the question of a museum at Srirangam

temple and there seems to be general agreement on the subject. It has been
averred that the temple possesses material of adequate interest to justify a
museum; that the previous museum was inadequate snd is in an area which should
be cleared; that the newly constructed muse'um is a "Csfit" (to quote a local
opinion). Certainly it is built precisely in the locality which the Faulkner
Report twice recommended to be Eleared (v. pp. 20 and 22)-

The reason given for the appearance and position of the new museum is that
it is erected by private donation. Since this reason,canbe advance&to justify
any modern constru&ion imaginable, it gives rise to certain reflections upon
the control exercisable by the temple authorities over building activities
within the precincts.
The Faulkner Report suggested that a museum should be formed by adapting
some temple buildings near the Garuda Mandapa. Apparently the author was not
informed that this locality was in an area restricted to Hindus.
If a new fashioned, conspicuous looking building is demanded by local
taste for a museum, then the only solution is that it should be sited where it

Serial No. 1222

 - 38 -

does not come cmjointly into view with the wancient monument". Conven lent lo-
cations of this zature are to be found immediately to tht: south of the new
building.
Certainly this new polychromatic museum and the newly painted Chakrathalwar
shrine, located together by the main entrance to the temple proper, produce an
impression the very opposite to that sought by a programme for the misc en
valeur of an ancient monument. In tile face of these most recent developments it
would seem more and more fitting to arrange that non-religious visitors make
their entry by these East Mottai Gopura and occupy themselves principally with,
the attractions of the easterngopuras azd the two monumental mandapas on the
east of the temple - the Horsemen Mandapa and the Thousand Pillar Mandapa.

N. THEHOHSE;MENMANDAPA

Whatever may or may not develop from a scheme for the "mise en valeur" of
the Srirangam Temple complex, the unit in the 4th prakara comprised by the
Thousand Pillar Mandapa andtheHorsemen Mandapa will certainly remain the centre
of interest of non-religious visitors. The present condition of the Horsemen
Mandapa is encouraging, quite apart from the attraction of the famous facade.
The interior is devoid of any accretions or excrescences which might conceal the
"structure" - massive paving blocks and ceiling beams, great monolithic pillars,
all are here with no distractions. Thus "the particular excellence of the
masonry construction" is immediately appreciated in this mandapa.

Every effort must be made to retain this virtue, and enhance it if possible.
Fortunately the interior suffers only from vestiges of whitewash on pillars and
ceiling slabs. The mandapa is thus an excellent locale to commence a specimen
operation of completely stripping such lime wash from stone work. The flooring
is particularly impressive and has not been interfered with in any way. In
short, compared with similar features in other South Indian temples, the mandapa
has been mercifully spared by spoiling hands.

In contradiction to this fortunate state of affairs the roof of the mandapa

is in a condition of appalling neglect. A complete resurfacing is required.
The temple authorities are said to have provided for a new system of surfacing
incorporating a damp-proof course, and, subject to a satisfactory test, it could
be applied here. However, this is not to be recommended unless it can be demon-
strated that the traditional system of surfacing is basically inadequate.

One of the attractions of this mandapa is its open design. It is light and
airy end thus relatively free of birds and bats. It is regrettable that the
eastern flank, originally open, has been walled up. A garden is adjoining on
this side but there is nothing u;%z.i&tly about the garden being open to view,
whereas the crude walling is very unsightly indeed. This untidy bricking up
shouid be removed.

It has been mentioned that this mandapa is naturally well lighted. This
introduces the important question of artificial lighting. At the moment a
ludicrous situation obtains. Suspended in the middle of the area by ragged,
sagging wires run in the longest possible sense, is one small domestid~:globe.

Serial No. 1222

 - 39 -
No arrangement could be designed to do more harm and less good. Either artifi-
cial light Is needed - in which case it must be adequate and properly installed
so that the fittings are as inconspicuous as possible; or artificial light is
not needed - in which case the present useless and disfiguring wires must be
removed. If it is decided to install artificial lighting, thought should be
given to some system of floor lighting.

Few remarks are required concerning the Horsemen facade. This is lllustra-
ted everywhere and thus it is understandable that there is a feeling that here
"something should be done'. In plain truth "nothing should be done". The
figures are carved in very hard stone which could well bear total exposure to
the elements. They are not water-worn to any degree and have suffered no damage
from natural agents. All the damage apparent has come from acts of vandalism;
thus:

(a) some small frangible appendages have been broken away;

(b) some streaks of pitch and spots of colour have been applied to the
stone.

The mutilations are very slight and do not diminish the artistic appearance of
the statues in any way, while the spots of colour etc. can be removed.

The only attention the Horsemen Mandapa require is superv3sion to prevent

the continuation of such acts In the future. The "eaves" which shelter these
Horsemen display some broken slabs. These can be repaired for appearance's
sake, but I doubt that the stone horsemen need their shelter as much as do
living pedestrians.

0. THETHOUSANDPILLAHMANDAPA

The Thousand Pillar Mandapa is a convenient unit to include in the initial

programme because of the two factors:

(a) the simplicity of the required operations;

(b) the large size of the building.

This will form an excellent test to determine whether the strength of purpose
and resources of organlzation are sufficient to achieve a satisfactory result
over an extended area. If they are not, then it mey be submitted that any so-
called programme of conservation and restoration will only do harm.sLnce it will
result in various patches of incomplete activity which can only have an adverse
effect on the unit of appearance.

In the main the one measure which is required in the mandapa is to strip
off the broken but thick coatings of lime wash from its thousand pillars. A
labour of a year or so at the best. By the rear (north) end of the hall the
ceiling is befouled with a black, pit&y deposit emanating mainly from bats.
To clean this away will be difficult - to keep bats away in the f::ture even
more difficult.

Serial No. 1222

 The other secondary attention in the mandaparelates to regrettable
recent interferences with the fabric. An extended metal grille painted con-
spicuously with reflecting silver paint has been run around the perimeter of the
building. This must be removed. Its disposal as scrap metal should realize a
considerable sum of money. It is difficuit to see why such a barrier has become
necessary. Whatever necessity there is can be provided for by increased super-
vision (or rather by more authoritative supervision). If indeed it is indispens-
able, a grille of a neutral, dull colour might be.tol.srated enclosing some in-
ternal part of the mandapa where l.t would not form part of the elevation.
In the restricted area between the west wall of the mandapa end the 3rd
prakara wall something of a jungle has grown up. With this the ground level
has risen several feet necessitating a curb wall to retain the soil and the
growth from spilling into the mandapa. If the jungle remains, and the curb wall
remains, then this wall should be seen as a clearly secondary structure running
between the ancient pillars. It is reprehensible that the pillars are deprived
of their bases and made to appear mutilated by being walled up wlthln such work.
Unnecessary cement and mortar should be knocked away and the lower part of the
pillars fully revealed. Equally the ridiculous falao pointing on the curb wall
should be knocked away and the stone CWstructiW revealed in its natural con-
dition.

In the rear part of the mandapa the floor level is raised and thus is higher
than the jungle ground adjacent. Here no retaining wall is necessary, but a
barrier has been constructed in the form of a brick blocking between the outer-
most piilars. How much better it would be if this construction were removedf
The only conceivabie thing it blocks out is light, and apparently light is a
desired entity, since an unfortunate new arrangement has been made In the middle
of the mandapa roof in order to admit more of it.

This variation in the roofing scheme was effected some three years ago. A
crack was said to be apparent in one of the ceiling beams and, using this as
justification, ail the stone celling beams spanning the central nave were re-
moved and replaced in reinforced concrete. A gigantic act of destruction to the
ancient fabric. At the same time a concrete protuberance was arranged above the
nave to afford a measure of clerestory lighting. On the interior the concrete
surface has been trowel smootiied so that it presents the worst aspect of con-
crete finish. hereas all the fine stone work has been and is being obliterated
with whitewa.sh and paint, this concrete is left proudly exposed.

The clerestory unit has been given an external roof surface of glossy red,
modern tiles, which offensively contrasts with the traditional surface surrounding
it. ln general the roof of the mandapa is in good condition.

The ancient flooring still survives 3.n spjte of threats to replace it.

The cost of the concrete clerestory operaLion would suffice to provide for
all the measures to be recommended in both this mendapa end the Horsemen mandaga.

P. THEINNlBKitEAsOFTHETEMPLE

The committee of technical authorities and religious officials (ail practis-

ing Hindus) who .I.nspected Srirangam Temple in 1966 devoted the bulk of their
Serial N6. 1222'
 - 41 -

attention to the sacred, inner portion of the temple. Since access to this
portion is normally reserved solely for Hindu worshippers, it is logical that
here only religious criteria should govern proposed measures of restoration or
conservation. Thus no detailed recommendations on the Inner sreas of the Temple
of Srirangam are presented iii this report.

To do so would be presumptious and pointless. These are the parts of the

complex where the deity dwells end is manifested to those who most share in his
aspects. For a person who is not united to the deity in this o;>eclal war by
birth, education and tradition to opine on the proper setting for religious
service would be unacceptable to those who feel themselves so united; for those
who are closely united to these special aspects of the deity to offer service
through the intermediary of strangers might well be considered unacceptable to
the deity.

Recourse may be had to the general section of this report for any informa-
tion desired concerning structural features. If this informatfon is found to
be in conflict with provisions contained in the report of the temple sub-
committee, then it is not the consultantls position to determine such issues.

Q. THHHANGAVIMANASHMHARA

The crowning part of the roofing of the Holy of Holies of Srirangam Temple
(the Ranga Vimana) is encased in gold. This can be seen from all elevated posi-
tions as an ornate domlcal structure emerging from the surrounding terrace roofs.
Thus although in an area of limited access, it is freely visible - and indeed
visitors are specially directed to look at it. Its aspect thus becomes a matter
of general concern.

At present the feature Is enclosed by a metal grille or barrier. A pro-

posal exists to replace this barrier: "The top balustrade around the Hanga
Vlmana Shikhara must be completely redone with an eye on uniformity of archi-
tecture, colour and alignment". This proposal provokes some reflection.

For what purpose Is the present metal grille designed? Logically it can
only be placed there for security reasons, i.e. to prevent people from damag3ng
or removing the previous casing. Whether this necessity is sufficient to
warrant the presence of the barrier Is not for me to say. However, If this
reason is considered insufficient, then clearly no other reason for abwrier
exists and therefore the barrier should be removed, as it is purely utilitarian
In concept and is no ornament.

Supposing, on the other hand, it is agreed that some barrier is necessary

to prevent unauthorized people interfering with the gold CaSiw- What then
are the requirements for such a barrier to best fulfil this function? Mani-
festly two:

1. the barrier should prevent access to the Shlkhara;

2. the barrier should interfere with the visibility of the Shikhara as

little as possible, and thus it should be itself as inconspicuous as
possflble.
Serial No. 1222

-._--_____ --
 - 42 -
To fulfil these two requirements the best design seems in principle an open metal
grille. It may be that the present grille can be improv& in appearence by
eliminating some of the cruditiss, or by being painted in a camouflage colour;
but it is not apparent that anotner construction would better fulfil the required
functions.
What type cf construoticn is to be inferred from the wording of the proposal
for replacing the existing berrier is not evident. There is certainly no indlca-
tion as to the purpose for which the suggested new barrier is designed. Perhaps
no thought was given to this matter, the Intention being simply to provide a
more " IinpOCing" structure as a sign of active concern.

R. SUMTUFZOF REcOMMENDATIONS

1. It is not evident that the current ideas and ideals expressed in Western
conservation and restoration of ancient monuments are necessarily applicable to
Hindu temples in South India which are stillliving centres of religion.

2. The Temple of Sri Ranganatha Swatny at Srirangam is one such institution.

Its extensive confines have been very largely built over to form a modern munici-
pality which is not under the administrative control of the religious authorities.
CZ the area which remains as a religious centre the greater part is not acces-
sible to non-Hindus.

3- For the various social reasons involved in this division many of the basic
concepts of Western conservation and restoration cannot be applied uniformly
over the whole complex of Srirangam Temple.

4. Piecemeal application of some of these Ideas and concepts dispersed inci-

dentally over the complex of Srirangam will produce no beneficial result, since
that harmony of detail would not be achieved which is object of a programme of
restoration as with other architectural programmes.

5. lk these circumstances an initial programme of conservation and restoration

at Srirangam must be restricted to a unit of the complex where the various
social and architectural factors combine to afford a reasonable opportunity of
formulating a coherent programme and assessfns its results with a view to deter-
mining whether programmes of Western c0nservb.i~ and restoration are applicable
to Srirangam Temple.

6. Thatunit of Srirangam Temple which most clearly answers these requirements

is the area on the east side of the temple comprising the Vellai Gopura, the
Horsemen Mandapa and the Thousand Pillar Mandapa, particularly if a special
"tourist entrance" is developed by way of the East Mottai Gopura.

The unit Is:

(a) under the administrative control of the temple trustees;

b> accessible to non-Hkdu visitors:

(c) of considerable artistic/historlaal ?nterest;

Serial No. 1222
 - 43 -
(d) in a reasonable state of preservation and relatively free of modern
encumbrances.

7. The measures of conservation and restoration required in this unit are

patent and simple, viz., the removal of the adventitious squalor (whitewash,
paint and mortar) applied to the masonry in recent generations.

8. These measures should form the Initial programme of conservation and restora-
tion at Srirangam Temple, and a reasonable time limit (e.g. 1 to 2 years) should
be required for their completion.

9. If this simple programme can be achieved within a reasonable time then

further programmes of conservation and restoration can be planned at Srirangam.
If this simple programme cannot be achieved then it is evident that the ideas
and ideals of Western conservation and restoration are not apposite to the
JWObhnS of living Hindu. temples like Srirangam.

10. Ultimately it may be found that Western conservation and restoration can
be made to apply at Srlrangam only by way of compromise involving "partition",
i.e. the establishment was originally a "temple-town", it has now become a
temple and a town, in future it may be triply divided into a temple, a town and
an ancient monument. This is the very furthest imaginable from an ideal solution
to the problems of the mise en valeur of Srirengam, but it may be the only prac-
tical possibility.

Serial No. 1222

-__-I_- _-_ ^- .
 - 45 -
APPENDIX

REZORT GN TEST OPERATIONSCARRIED OUT IN DECEMEER1968

1. Cleaning pillars in Horsemen Mandapa of whitewash and paint

The Horsemen Msndapa has been coated and recoated with whitewash so that in
many cases the scuiptural ornament has entirely disappeared - certainly all
details of working have been lost. The first step in this process of degenera-
tion was the applying of an irrelevant, linear "decoration" in red paint. It
would be interesting to determine when this was carried out.

The present condition of the hall bears evidence of a local attempt to

remove this whitewashing - some of the pillars have been treated up to a height
accessible to human reach, resulting in the scaling away of the outer layer of
whitewash. The reason for abandoning work at this stage soon became apparent
when tests were permitted of confident assertions that this whitewash was readily
dealt with by local methods. These methods proved effective only to the stage
apparent in the previously treated pillars.

Generally speaking whitewashing is removed from masonry by first chipping

and scaling away mechanically as much as possible, followed by washbIg with water
(with or without a surface-active agent as necessary). As a final resort solu-
tions of acetic or formic acid are recommended. The precise technique varies
according to the compaction and adhesion of the layers of whitewash together with
the delicacy oftheoriginal surface which is to be revealed.

At Srirangam the whitewash is of amazing obduracy (very possibly paint has

been used from time to time in addition to whitewash), but fortunately the origi-
nal surface is healthy granite little susceptible to damage. However, the stone
surface is minutely pitted by the pointed tools employed in its dressing. This
together with the detail of the sculpture forms a perfect keying for the white-
wash coats. The result is that although the outer layers forming the bulk of the
whitewash can be removed easily, the countless specks lodged in the surface inden-
tations are virtually irremovable except by individual attention with a small
tool.

In the face of these circumstances every effort was made to convince the
labour that the point of the exercise was to reduce one unit (e.g. a pillar) to
its original appearance, and to establish the most practical means of carrying
out this process. It was emphasizedrepeatedlythattsremove inost of theMrite-
wash was no more a work of restoration than was applying another coat.

The unit selected for the test was ohosen as affording the greatest practical
difficulties. It was one of the four central pillars - the largest, highest and
most broken up with ornament in the Mandapa. Work was directed to be commenced
at the top where the projecting gargoyles, corbels and capital provided great
difficulties of access and caused general inconvenience. Six unskilled workmen
were engaged. Local bamboo scaffolding is erected readily and quickly. Men are
prepared to work on impossibly flimsy and rickety scaffolding, but with insis-
tence this can be made reasonably safe and stable. Great agility is shown by
those working on these structures.
Serial No.1222
 -46-

For the initial process of knocking away and scaling off, hard-wood chisels
and mallets were prepared. These function well, though in view of the condition
of the underlying granite there would be no danger in a skilled workman using
metal tools.
For the subsequent washing process it was evident that a surface-active
agent was required in the water. The local practice is to use the washing powder
employed by "dhobies". This washing soda is mixed with water (preferably warm)
and applied by soft brush to the surface which is to be cleaned. After 20 or 30
minutes it is then scrubbed off, and should bring away ths whitewash. This pro-
cess was tested, but with unsatisfactory results as indicated above. Substitu-
tion of a modern detergent product, 'SURF", for the washing soda, brought some
improvement but not sufficient. Manifestly chemical treatment was necessary.

Acetic acid and nitric acid, both recommended for this purpose, were availa-
ble and were tested with completely unsatisfactory results whatever the strength
of the solution employed. In these circumstances, since the stone was granite,
experiments were made with hydrochloric acid. Eventually it was made evident
that the only practical method of cleaning the stone completely was as follows:

Neat hydrochloric acid was painted on to the face of the stone (for this
purpose lengths of palm branches, with the ends teased out into individual
fibres proved ideal). After a time the surface was scrubbed with water using
a stiff scrubbing brush, and firmly adhering fragments of whitewash were
prized off by a tool. About three repeats of this sequence brough the stone
to an acceptable condition. The stone was continually swilled down with
water during the process, and as a final measure there was prolonged swilling.

The team employed soon developed good organization and skill in handling the
various implements and materials. Raving mastered a technique in cleaning the
first pillar, work was extended to the neighbouring column to obtain a reasonable
assessment of the time factor. This operation progressed smoothly, producing a
very pleasing result. The indications are that to clean properly an average
column will require about three days* work.

When the stone work of the columns was revealed with crisp fluting and orna-
ment, it became objectionably apparent that cement had been laid around the bases,
obscuring the junction of the several structural elements. On knocking this
cement away, the structure sprang to life, the column or pillar was seen as a
separate entity resting on a massive foundation block, which in turn was sepa-
rately distinguished from the flooring slabs by being raised slightly above them,
thus expressing its different function as a foundation.

In view of this all agreed that the removal of cement from the flooring was
very desirable. At this moment ten yards away men preparing for the forthcoming
festival were newly cementing over the paving blocks "to close the gaps'. The
absurdity of the situation was accepted, but since the cementing operation was
under the order of the controller of the small shrine opening off the Mandapa, it
was admitted that nothing could be done about it.

2. Removing cement 'false pointing" and other disfigurements on walls

It may be hazarded that a person who draws a network of dirty, ragged, indel-
ible lines across a Leonardo canvas will only do so if the painting has absolutely
Serial No. 1222
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no meaning for him; and if society pennits or approves this, then the painting
has no meaning for society. This is exactly the position with the superb masonry
of South Indian Hindu Temples. It is ruined by smearing a ragged network of dirty
grey cement across the surface of the hairline jointing. This practice came into
vogue with &he arrival on the scene of cement , and is now in wholesale applica-
tion; it will continue in the future. No one, when asked, can give any reason
for doing it, and for that reason it will be almost impossible to prevent.

The destructive effect is appalling; removal very, very difficult indeed.

A hard mixture of grey cement thinly applied (smeared) over the surface of stone
is almost impossible to take away. It will not flake cleanly off tne stone. m
will, of course, flake away from any gaps between the blocks where, presumably,
it is designed to remain.) Whatever laborious chipping or scraping is practised,
remnants of the cement subsist and in any event the characteristic cement stain
is irremovable. For this reason it is one maxim of work on ancient monuments that
cement should never be brought into the vicinity of ancient masonry, unless abso-
lutely necessary.

The only way to remove utterly the traces of cement applied to the surface
of stone is to cut away both the cement and the stone surface. Since this leaves
a blemish as unsightly as the cement, such action entails the further labour of
artificially repatinating the damaged stone surface. In the face of these diffi-
culties an attitude of despair is induced by the universal practice of attempting
to seal the joints of ancient masonry with cement.

One small test operation was conducted in an endeavour to arrive at a reason-

ably practical method of reducing the effects of this cement nuisance.
A stretch of the Third F'rakara Wall by the South fapade of the Horsemen
Mandapa was selected - in view of the shortage of time it was restricted to a ten
foot run, giving an overall area of treatment of approximately 200 sq.ft. This
area of wall displayed a variegated squalor. Surprisingly, two different building
stones had been used in its construction. The lower one-third was built in a
black granite, the upper two-thirds in the normal light coloured granite which is
weathered to a beautiful gold patina. Over the lower half of the wall coats of
whitewash and paint had been applied. The cement "pointing" was subsequent in
origin to the whitewashing. As an ultimate in absurdity, the cement had no con-
tact with the stone, but was laid on over the coats of whitewash. Thus for the
whitewashed area of the wall there was no trouble in removing the cement, it
simply flaked away with the whitewash when cracked by hammer or prised with a
chisel.
The upper half of the wall where the cement was smeared directly on-the
beautiful golden tinted masonry, presented all the difficulty envisaged. A stone
mason using both point and chisel was able to remove only the surface of the
thicker parts of the cement. Everywhere there was a residue of cement or cement
stain. Energetic brushing with a fine wire brush brought away further cement,
but it was clear that some sort of surface-active wash was required. The danger,
of course, here was in damaging or staining the patina of the neighbouring stone
in the effort to remove the cement.

A solution of hydrochloric acid was applied to the region of the joints with
the aim of leaching out any lime, and thus loosening the adhesion of the cement.

Serial No.1222
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The precise instructions were not carried out, the solution was applied too freely
and allowed to remain too long before washing. Inevitably the patina was dsmagad
and the surface of the stone stained in ugly bands and trickles.

Careful application of nitric acid proved of some use in disloding the cement
traces and did not appear to stain the surrounding stone.

However, ultimately it must be accepted that whatever method is employed to

eradicate the last traces of cement is likely to damage the surface patina of the
stone and necessitate a furthar process of artificial repatination. For this
purpose a slurry of earth and appropriate earth-colour was scrubbed into the
damaged area. It will wear away in time, but by then the newness of the scar
likewise will have worn away.

The outlook on this basic aspect of 'conservation and resotration" at

Srfrangam is as bad as possible. It is very difficult to remove the cement on
walls and just as difficult to prevent furthercementbeing applied.

3. Cleaning external plaster-work

The vast expanses of ornamental plaster-work exposed on the fapades of the

Gopuras are all begrimed with a black aerial deposit. This is entirely superfi-
cial and a test shows thatitcan be removed almost completely by scrubbing with a
dry stiff brush. The plaster is sufficiently firm, so that, with reasonable care,
this operation causes no damage to its surface. Dry brushing would seem a pref-
erable way (at least initially) of dealing with this problem than would any wash-
ing process, since great inconvenience may arise from streams of filthy water
caught and retained in the myriad pockets and hollows of the ornament. Washing
could be reserved as a subsequent treatment employed only where required and to
the degree required.

Within the terms of the suggested progrwne, the V'ellai Gopura may be scaf-
folded and a start made by brushing off all the superficial dirt, so permitting a
closer inspection of the condition of the plaster. On the assessment of this,
more detailed proposals for the consolidation etc. of this plaster-work csn be
entertained. The labour involved in brushing away the surface grime is, of course,
very considerable.

Serial No.1222
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IV. NOTICES OF OTHER SOUTH INDIAN MONUMENTS
8. REpoRTONPALAIyASN~AMANDTHIRUMAKKuDaLTEMpLEs
Midway along the road from Chingleput to Kancheepuram, which here follows
closely the course of the Palar River, are situated in close proximity two
Vaishnavite Temples: one on the north bank of the river, the Temple of Palaiya
Sivaram; and the other on the south bank, the Temple of Thirumakkudal. Both tem-
ples are of moderate size and it is submitted that, if dealt with in conjunction,
between them they could be made to show to advantage many of the virtues of South-
ern Hindu temple architecture. There are several reasons for this. The accessi-
bility from Madras, the beautiful siting and above all, the complementary nature
of the temples themselves.
The Temple of Palaiya Sivaram, whatever may be its modest pretentions to his-
toricity, is of interest mainly because of its superb natural siting. Cut into
the lower slopes of a verdant hill which overlooks the Palar River, the Temple pre-
sents a delightful prospect from near and far, and in turn, from the vantage of
the Temple forecourt a splendid view is afforded of the broad river valley and sur-
rounding country. The Temple is "alive" , and has but recently been redecorated.
It is in every way a fitting subject for presenting to advantage the colourful ar-
chitecture of the innumerable minor Hindu temples which dot the countryside.
Here would have been the place to try to establish scme scheme decoration to
serve as a type for the future "redecorating" of temples by their local communi-
ties. What is customarily effected now is, of course, purely village work which
has lost all connexion with the artistic tradition which built and ornamented the
monuments to which it is applied. Such work is properly suited for decorating ad-
vertisement hoardings, and only by historical misfortune is it applied to ancient
masonry. If a new scheme could be evolved, based in some measure on the original
art form, sensibly respecting the functional elements of the fabric to which it
was applied, and at the same time contriving to gain the acceptance of the common
man - this would constitute the greatest servic e which could be performed in the
interests of Hindu temples.
One interesting feature of the recent work at Palaiya Sivaram is the reno-
vated Gopura. Here the plaster (apparently a cement plaster) has been left un-
painted. The effect is excellent for a variety of reasons, e.g. the colour is a
congruous neutral shade, the surface is finished slightly roughened so as to avoid
"surface sheen", and in any event the sculptura 1 decoration breaks up the mass.
In the absence of any more recondite guidance this work could well serve as a
model for other local workmen engaged in restoring gopuras.
In contrast to this particular merit, the generalized painting of the masonry
is typical village work, and it affords a particularly bad example of paint obscur-
ing a lengthy and important inscription.
On the opposite bank of the river is situated the ruined Chola Temple of
Thirumakkudal. This is a scheduled ancient monument well known for its historical
inscription instituting a hospital in the temple precincts. Again this Temple has
a most beautiful siting, no t a little enhanced by the excellent prospect it af-
fords of Palaiya Sivaram Temple. Here the quietness and repose of the weathered,
ancient masonry, set among the green turf and trees is doubly appreciated after
the lively colouring of the Palaiya Sivsram Temple.
In view of its charm and its historical importance the Temple of Thirumakkudal
is very demanding of conservation. Fortunately excellent results could be obtained
by that most satisfactory of operations - repositioning the original elements. The
condition of the monument graphically demonstrates the necessity for such atten-
tion. Here different structures in various stages of ruin clearly show that if

Serial No.1222
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repositioning is carried out betimes, much unnecessary "renovation" is avoided.
Certainly if this is not done shortly there will be a wholesale collapse of many
units of the complex, which will be ssii.
B. BRIEF NOTE CN THE TEYPIZ OF GANGRIKONDACHOLAPURAMNEAR LOWERANAICUT, AND
THE DHARASUR.AiY
TEMPU ON THE OUTSKIRTS OF I(uMRAKO2JPtiY
Both these Temples are scheduled ancient monuments in the keeping of the Ccn-
tral Government Archaeological Service. It is only fitting to say, for the advan-
tage of pointing out good examples, that no ancient monuments could be presented
in more sympathetic fashion.
Within the prakara walls there is a green peace from which all discordant ele-
ments have been removed and kept out. Nothing more is necessary, but to maintain
this state of affairs in the face of demands from inimical interests. Lovers of
Indian art and architecture have here much to be grateful for.
C. REPORT ON TREATMENTOF SCULPTUREDPILLARS INTHEFMMASWAMYTEMPLE AT
KLJrmAKoNm
The entrace Mandapa of this Temple is supported by pillars ornamented with
sculptured figures. This sculpture seems to have been of some merit, but of this
it is now impossible to judge clearly , since the pillars have all been thickly
coated with some form of black grease. This presumably was done with some miscon-
ceived aim of "scientific preservation" , although "preservation from what?", seems
a question not readily answerable.
The artistic virtue of this style of sculpture resides very much in the sur-
face modelling. Nothing more effective than a thick layer of grease could have
been designed to render this modelling imperceptible. Particularly is this so
since the grease retains another outer coating of dirt and dust.
However, although the pillars are now not displayed to great advantage, it ap-
pears that recently they have been made the subject of a photographic survey.
This at least seems to be the case, since on the flat black surface to which the
appearance of the pillars has been reduced, there has been painted sizable white
numbers. Certainly these numbers would stand out very clearly in the photographs,
and would serve to identify these photographs since the subject matter might other-
wise be rather dark and indeterminate because of the caverning of grease. However,
these white numbers, having served their purpose, might now be removed and the pil-
lars identified by less prominent means.
Perhaps if there had been no grease, the numbers might not have been neces-
sary, and the identity of the sculptures clearly apparent to the eye and the camera
alike.
D. SHORTREPORT ON THE TEMPU OF ARUNA JAGESWARAAT THIRUPANANDAL
Recently this temple has been completely repainted and not one square inch of
the interior has escaped the brush. The decoration has been effected in a comi-
cally village manner, very pleasing to all concerned. Externally the finely
jointed, ancient masonry has been given a "false pointing" (quite avowedly to inhi-
bit the lodgement of vegetation).
The sight of this temple only goes to suggest that it would be much better
for everyone if "Western style" restoration and conservation of ancient monuments
disappeared as an issue from the milieu of living South Indian temples. The local
population know exactly what they want in this connexion, and they are perfectly
capable of providing for their own needs. For any outside influence to enter the
scene with ideas of "instructing" them to want some+&ing different will promote
little but trouble.

Serial No. 1222

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E. SHORT REPORT ON MUVARKOIL (NEAR KODAMHULAR) .

The site comprises a group of originally three small, early Chola temples
situated in the fields at a convenient remove from Kudambulur village.

They are entirely masonry structure from plinth to shikhara, and thus the
difficulty concerning the preservation of plaster work does not accrue. The
masonry is very beautiful and in excellent condition. Alas! the true hairline
jointing has been defaced by smearing the stone with mortar, here given an artifi-
cial colouring to render its presence as apparent as possible.

The small precinct of the temples has been enclosed with an unobtrusive
angle-iron and wire fence, and the interior is kept nicely cropped and grassed.
Thus the temples are displayed sympathetically in a green clearing amid the sur-
rounding woods, with no modern barrier cutting them off from their native setting.

A large number of sculptured figures from these and neighbouring temples are
collected in a storehouse near the gate of the enclosure. The salvaging and
storage of these sculptures is commendable, only the concrete storeroom is unnec-
essarily placed in the most prominent position in front of the entrance to the
precinct. It thus completely destroys the otherwise delightful approach view of
the temple. This storeroom might well have been sacludod behind the trees which
surround the site, thus leaving unspoiled the very agreeable ambience of this
temple.

This is another instance of the regrettable mentality which always seek to

put any modern structure erected on an ancient site in the most conspicuous pos-
sible position. Perhaps something might be done here by planting small trees
around the shed, but it would be much simpler to remove it to another place.

F. SHORT REPORT ON MLJCHlJKUNDESWARA(MUDUKUNDRAM)TEMPLE~

The site consists of a sm.&l. 'temple complex (entirely of masonry) with
Vimana, two Mandapas and a la;-gz lank, situated in parkland outside Kodambalur
village. The Vimma is of Chola date (ca.920 A.D.) with later alterations to
this and other parts, while the main Mandapa is a much later addition.

This Temple has not been interfered with or spoiled in any way. The original
masonry speaks for itself, and nothing disturbs its quic?t rural setting. The small
precinct and surround are kept neatly tended. May this ideal of affairs continue.

G. SHORT REPORT ON ALAGAR KOIL

Alagar Koil proclaims itself a place which must be visited; it is the end
of a pilgrimage as shown by the road which leads to it alone, with beyond a
natural barrier to the ways of men.

The site of this Temple , enfolded by verdant hills, is a triumph. And the
presentation of the noble masonry with its beautiful golden patina embraced by
nature is breath-catching. Alas now only short stretches of the outer prakara
walls can be seen in this condition. The remainder of the masonry is squalid
with whitewash and paint. Never has fine monumental masonry been so cruelly
defaced.
Serial No. 1222
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The two features accessible to non-religious visitors are the entrance

Gopura and the Kalyana I%ndapa.

The Gopura is very interesting, it being the only living monument I have
seen where on the stucco fapades the traditional scheme of painted decoration has,
in the main, survived. Fortunately it has not as yet in any way been superseded
by the "shop window display" colouring of the present day. Doubtless it soon
will be. Inevitably the masonry of the lower portion of the Gopura has suffered
with whitewashing and surface mortaring and pointing. However this latter has
been toned in to some degree with its background.

The main Kalyana Mandapa contains a fine series of compound pillars with
life-sized figural sculpture. These are notable pieces of baroque extravaganza.
They are now made to contrast violently with their backing columns. The columns
are thickly whitewashed and the figures are ancinted with oil. This oil is of a
light, golden constituency so that, at least, the texture of the stone is in some
measure perceptible. However, the reflection and glinting set up on this surface
is such that it is almost impossible with normal lighting to bring these figures
into visual focus.
H. RETORT 3F INSPECTION OF THE SUNDARAJAPERTJMALTRMPX, THIRWELLARAI,
CARRIED OUT ON THE MOFXING OF 31 OCTOBER1968

Extract from the front pagebof "The Indian Express" dated 31 October 1968:

Tiruchi, 30 October (ENS)

TWO K!LLED AS GOF'URAMGIVES WAY

"Two persons were lcil?.ed an:1 five others sustained injuries when a por-
tion of the Gopuraii of the Sundaraja .Peminml Temple in ThiruveZlarsi about 12
miles from here, collapsed this morning.

While workers were engaged in renovation work, a portion of the Gopuram

where some cracks were found, collapsed killing two workers on the spot.
Five others were reported to have sustained injilries.

All the injured have been admitted in the hospital.

The Lalgudi Police Inspector has rushed to the spot.

The Thiruvellarai Temple is a famous Vaishnavite centre of worship".

This mishap was brought to tr,y notice by sight of the above newspaper report.
On inquiry with the Srirangam officials I was informed that the Sundaraja Perumal
Temple was a dependency of the Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple, the officials of
which were responsible for the "renovation work" in q.uestion. Accordingly I made
arrangements to visit and inspect the said work. Two main objects were in view:

(1) To gain knowledge of the type of weaknesses likely to develop in the

traditional construation of Gopurams;
Serial No.1222
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(2) To familiarize myself with the local capacities and procedures for
carrying out restoration.uork.

The Sundaraja Perumal Temple is a fine monument situated in a scenic, rural

locality. The fabric would appear in the main to be older than the bulk of the
work at the Srirangam Temple. The ceiling-floor complex of the first stage of
the main entrance Gopura had been obcarved to be in a damaged, if not dangerous
condition, and the project had been undertaken to repair or renew this element of
the building. The necessary new granite beams had been quarried and masons were
at work dressing these ready for use in the replacing of the damaged originals.
The ceiling-floor unit was built of large granite beams four to five metres long
and about 50 ems. broad. These beams are supported on an ornamental corbelled
stolx? seating (a stone wall plate) on three sides and a heavy stone lintel on the
entrance side. The stone beams were themselves overlaid by lime and brick compo-
sition flooring. In addition to its seating each beam derived some support from
lateral pressure occasioned by being tightly set one against the other. Apparently
the superimposed lime brick flooring also exercised some cementation of the sepa-
rate units.

One or more beams were noticed to be cracked and defective. Therefore it

was decided to remove adjacent beams in order to take out and replace the defec-
tive beam (beams). No scaffolding was erected to support the beams from below,
the work was carried out entirely from above. Unfortunately events showed that
the corbel stone seating of the beams had been weakened by age. While the work-
men were picking out the lime and brick flooring in order to get at the stone
beams beneath, the entire flooring gave way and every beam except a single lateral
one crashed to the ground below. This calamity, triggered off by the disturbance
to the cementatious flooring, appears to have been due partly to cracks and defects
in the beams themselves and partly to the weakened condition of the stone corbel
seating (it is significant that the only beam to remain in place is cracked through
but rests on a lateral seating in good condition , all other seating having been
broken away at the extremities). Manifestly this mishap would not have occurred
if the ceiling had been properly sustained by scaffolding before the work of
removal was commenced.

The most immediate concern occasioned by this unfortunate affair is the

effect on the "renovation work" planned. Clearly all the roofing beams must now
be replaced (the one remaining in situ included). The otherwise delicate task
of taking the old beams down haznaccomplished by Providence in an all
unlooked-for fashion. Whether the damaged wall plates should be replaced is a
matter for consideration. Certainly if the existing wall plates are retained,
then the new stone beams should be made as long as possible to give them the
greatest possible seating.

Some extra assurance will be required for the strength of the lintel. The
most convenient method of providing this undoubtedly would be to cut a chase in
the upper surface and let in a heavy steel girder (or girders), spanning the
entrance. This hidden, structural steel work would then take the load of the
stone roofing beams, leaving the stone lintel to bear only its own weight. If
further doubts were felt as to its capacities to do even that, the stone lintel
itself could be supported by steel straps or stirrups tying it up to the steel
girder inset in its upper surface.

Serial No.1222
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Subsequent to this particular investigation opportunity was taken to make a

tour around the accessible portions of the Temple. The rural setting of the
Temple is very beautifui and clean and fresh, indeed so clean and fresh is the
air. that consumptives arL9 brought to the precinct to recover their health.
Equally fresh and clean is the beautiful ancient masonry, quite devoid of the
squalid disfigurements of modern village life which soil Srirangam Temple.

No stucco ornsment remains on the towers of the Gopurams, and if any further
restoration work is envisaged the brickwork should be consolidated in its present
condition, as the exposed brickwork is majestic "structure" and presents a most
impressive effect. The new pointing should be such that the joints are raked out
to a depth of about half a centimetre.

The stone prakara walls have been extensively repaired by the excellent
means of numbering each stone, dismantling and rc-erecting. Unfortunately the
resulting appearance is atrocious because of two factors. The identifying num-
bers were painted on the faces of the stones in large black letters and these
remain boldly on display as a proud memorial of this activity. Secondly, although
the original construction was in dry stone, the blocks when re-erected were
apparently set in thick cement mortar. Whether or not this cement mortar is (or
is considered to be) advisable for compaction, it is not required to be displayed
on the face of the wall as a sort of wide pointing sealing all the joints. This
has given the work the appearance of village rubble masonry, and has completely
destroyed the noble aspect of the finely jointed ancient masonry - the preserva-
tion of which was one of the specific objects of the labour of recording, dis-
mantling and re-erection.

Doubtless one reason for this ugly pointing is the desire to prevent seeds
Lodging in the joints, where they germinate, and the strong forces exercised by
the growing plants damages the masonry. Special plant-killing powders are
employed to prevent this, but they are not a hundred per cent effective. Here
it can only be emphasized that whatever the difficulties of dealing with this
problem may be, the solution is not to spoil utterly the appea'ance of the ancient
masonry.

J. REPORT ON THE INSTITUTE OF RELIGIOUS ART, MAHALIPURAM

About 1958 there was established by the Governzment of Madras State an Insti-
tute of Religious Art situated witnin the precincts of the famous temple site of
Mahabalipuram. The intention was to systematise instruction in that body of
artistic and architectural knowledge brought to bear in the service of Hindu
religion. This body of knowledge has a literary formulation in the Sanskrit
scriptures; and proficiency in it has hitherto been transmitted by tradition
within the families and caste societies concerned.

That an institution with such a seemingly visionary aim should function at

all, is evidence that it is soundly organized and after ten years the institution
is indeed functioning and functioning well.

A four- or five-year course is provided covering the Sanskrit texts, archi-

tectural drawing (Western style), traditional inconographic drawing and painting,
masonry work and sculpture, etc. Since the graduates of this course have been
Serial No. 1222
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trained specifically and exclusively for the work of building and decorating
Hindu temples in the traditional manner, it seems to me self-evident that they
are the proper group to receive instruction in the aims, principles and practice
of conserving and restoring such monuments. I would recommend very strongly that
some provision was made for this instruction during the final year of the course.
The body of knowledge inculcated should be intelligently oriented towards the
local scene, and there should be no difficulty in arranging practical demonstra-
tions and experience.

In view of the important of the initial adjustment of two different outlooks,

I would suggest humbly that the initial course of instruction in conservation and
restoration was given by a visiting lecturer with an international background.

Serial No.1222
1. Approach to the Unfinished Raya Gopura. This consti-
tutes the main entrance to the complex. Its fine stone-
work suffers from the clutter of recent building.

2. The West Mottai (Unfinished) Gopura. The unfinished

condition illustrates to advantage the characteristic
constructi Len based on a framework of gigantic piers.
3. The Complex of Srirangam viewed from the eastern
entrance proposed for visitors. Beyond the modern
housing in the foreground can be seen the fourth
Prakara wall with its tall Vellai (white) Gopura.
(Here and around the court to which it gives access
the work of conservation has been commenced).
Thereafter lie the sanctuary areas of the Temple
inaccessible to non-Hindus.

4. Plaster figure from decorated Gopura facade. The

grime apparent is aerial deposit and can be largely
cleaned away by brushing.
 5. Third Prakara wall, existing condition. Beneath this
barnyard surface appearance compounded of paint,
whitewash and false pointing I, lies superb, dry-
jointed, hair-line masonry.

6. Painted interior of Sri Chakrathalwar Temple. An

example of the Hallucinatory effect of house
painter Interior
decoration. All detail, and even
the character itself, of masonry is lost; and no
understanding is shown of the underlying building
elements.