The Egmore government museum premises in Chennai have become a graveyard for Tamil Nadu's glorious past, as numerous ancient sculptures, stone pillars, and temple idols lie in utter neglect and disgrace. Many 13th-century Chola-era and 14th-century Vijayanagara-era sculptures are buried under dirt, dried leaves, overgrown weeds, and plastic waste.
Blame Game Between Authorities
When contacted, assistant director (Technical) N Sundararajan told TOI that the sculptures fall under the control of the Idol Wing and that museum authorities cannot interfere. However, Idol Wing officials countered that the sculptures were handed over to the museum for safekeeping, making their safety and upkeep the museum's responsibility.
Lost Opportunity for Public Display
Had these sculptures been displayed with dignity inside the museum, they would have attracted enthusiasts, experts, and the public. The collection includes carved pillars, flattened stones etched with snake motifs, and temple sculptures featuring intricate depictions of tools, animals, and ornaments. Now exposed to rain and sun, the granite sculptures are losing their sheen and sharp edges due to lack of maintenance. Workers and visitors walk over them, and some even use the chiseled granite for short naps. Besides those heaped with construction rubble, TOI found at least 10 sculptures lying behind a building amid litter, cardboard boxes, pipes, rubber sheets, and piles of dried leaves.
Expert Concerns on Preservation
Experts warn that continuous exposure to heat and temperature fluctuations can affect the texture of sandstones. Such artefacts should be kept under natural shade or creepers with proper preservation measures. Although the condition has persisted for years, museum authorities appear to have made little effort to preserve the sculptures or create adequate space for them.
Archaeologist's Perspective
Retired archaeologist Dr C Santhalingam of the Department of Archaeology noted that space constraints remain a major challenge. “As long as proper records of the sculptures and idols are maintained, there will not be significant issues,” he said. However, he stressed that preservation of heritage must remain the department's foremost concern and should be ensured at all times.
