Author(s): Dr. Rama Krishna Ganjam
Abstract:
In Bhārata, widely renowned as the karmabhūmi (land of righteous action), temples are esteemed as kalpavṛkṣas—celestial wish-fulfilling trees—that bestow both worldly and spiritual fruits upon all human beings. Across this sacred land, and even in other countries, there are hundreds of thousands of such glorious temples that shine forth as centers of public welfare. These temples now stand as the primary abodes safeguarding the essence of the Vedas, Itihāsas, Purāṇas, and their associated dharmic values. They also serve as spiritual homes for those who follow those traditions, those who seek knowledge, and devotees. Hence, the protection and preservation of such temples, as well as the divine vigrahas (sacred idols or mūrtis) enshrined within them, is of utmost importance. Due to the passage of time and human negligence, some of these temples and vigrahas fall into disrepair. For the restoration of such structures and mūrtis, the scriptures prescribe specific procedures. This research paper presents those scriptural methods of restoration (jīrṇoddhara) in accordance with the Śrī Vaikhānasa Bhagavad Śāstra. The principles related to temple and vigraha restoration will be discussed here in a clear manner, free from doubt or misconception, rooted firmly in the Vaikhānasa tradition
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