1,200-YR-OLD MASROOR ROCK CUT TEMPLE TO BE UPGRADED WITH CONTEMPORARY FACILITIES

Masroor Rock Cut Temple, which was declared as a centrally protected monument of national importance by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in the year 1912-13, does carry many treasures in its past but this unique monument, along with many historical monuments of this region, would now meet modern amenities.

ASI is all set to move ahead with their conservation plans in which Bathinda Fort, Phillaur Fort, Himachal’s monuments, temples, and Haryana based Thanesar Shekhchilli Ka Makbara and Harsh Ka Tilla are on cards to be conserved, maintained, and facilitated at the public disposal.

The Monolithic rock-Cut temple of Masroor has been commissioned by a pseudonymous ruler from the Jalandhar dynasty of Punjab, who had ruled directly or indirectly the foothills of Kangra and was a complex of nineteen independent free-standing temples. However, in the present times, only a few of them stands bearing the marks of the devastating earthquake of 1905. The temple complex at Masroor is a virtual gallery of exquisite sculptures which are rich in contemporary iconography. The Central Shrine was hewn out as a cave in the rock and exteriors along with the doorways were embellished with highly ornamental carvings. The temple faces the North-East direction. From the image of Shiva carved on the lintel of the main temple, it can be inferred that the shrine was dedicated to Shiva.

ASI is going to develop cafeteria, toilets, and boating arrangements in and around Masroor Rock Cut Temple so that people get attracted to this spot and get to know the rich historical pattern of sculptures that are not only present in the south part of the country but here too, says Zulfikar Ali, Archaeological Superintendent, Chandigarh Circle.

Himachal’s Hadimba Devi Temple would too get conserved as the rooftop tiles were affected last year and the work was halted because of the pandemic. Along with this, the platform of Mandi Trilokinath Temple would also be renovated.

Haryana-based Thanesar’s Shekhchilli Ka Makbara and Harsh Ka Tilla would too get updated with modern amenities. The tourists would be able to have access to the cafeteria, cloakroom and toilets soon in this year says, Zulfikar Ali.