Ancient Karnataka Temple Crumbles Amidst Official Apathy
A significant piece of Karnataka's rich history is slowly fading away due to sheer neglect. The 800-year-old Virupaksha Swamy Temple, located within the Virupaksha fort in Mulbagal, presents a heartbreaking picture of abandonment. This historical structure's condition stands in stark contrast to its fortunate neighbors.
A Tale of Two Heritage Sites
Ironically, the dilapidated temple is situated very close to the Ramalingeshawara group of temples in Avani, which are actively protected and maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). This proximity highlights a glaring disparity in how heritage sites are treated. While one complex receives official care, the other is left to the elements.
Access to the Virupaksha Swamy Temple itself is a challenge. Visitors must navigate a path covered with dust and thorny overgrowth, a clear sign of the long-term absence of basic maintenance. The state of the approach road mirrors the forgotten status of the temple it leads to.
Facts and Historical Context
The core facts of this story are undeniable. The temple is confirmed to be eight centuries old, placing its origins around the 13th century. It is located specifically at the Virupaksha fort in Mulbagal, Kolar district. The news about its current state was highlighted in early January 2026, bringing renewed attention to its plight.
The comparison with the ASI-protected Avani temples is not just geographical but symbolic. It raises critical questions about the criteria and processes for awarding heritage protection status. Why does one site merit conservation while another of comparable age is ignored?
Consequences and Call for Action
The continued neglect of the Virupaksha Swamy Temple has several direct consequences:
- Architectural Decay: Every passing monsoon and sunny season causes irreversible damage to the ancient stone structures and carvings.
- Loss of History: The temple likely holds invaluable clues about the region's medieval history, art, and architecture, which are being erased.
- Cultural Erosion: Such sites are not just buildings; they are centers of local culture and community memory. Their loss diminishes collective heritage.
The situation calls for immediate intervention from both state archaeological departments and heritage conservation bodies. Documentation, structural stabilization, and a clear conservation plan are urgently needed before it is too late. The story of Mulbagal's forgotten temple is a microcosm of a larger issue facing India's unprotected historical wealth, demanding a more inclusive and proactive preservation policy.
