Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple in for a makeover

Thiruvananthapuram: Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple is set for a major makeover as the temple administration has initiated steps to demolish the sanctum sanctorum and construct a new one. A temporary abode will be constructed where the idols will be placed until the construction of new sanctum sanctorum is completed. The temple authorities said that this is a major renovation work being undertaken in the temple in its centuries-old history.
“We did a ‘devaprasnam’ in December and the demolition and re-construction of sanctum sanctorum has been planned as per the conclusion arrived at devaprasnam,” said M Sudhakaran, manager of the temple. As per the plan, the new sanctum sanctorum will be built at larger dimensions. The width and height of the sanctum sanctorum will be larger than that of the existing one.

Tenders have been invited to undertake the project. The project is expected to be completed within six months. The compound wall of the temple will also be redone in such a way that the temple would be visible from all corners. The floor level will also be raised to address the problem of water logging during rainy season.

“We are looking for skilled sculptors specializing in work on Krishnasila. The sanctum sanctorum will be built using Krishnasila,” said M Sudhakaran. The demolition of structures close to the present sanctum sanctorum has already begun and temporary abode will come up in this place. Mandapam will be retained as such.

While the temple authorities are going ahead with the renovation scheme, the project might be in for a maze of technical processes. “The area falls under heritage zone and naturally all constructions or alterations are permissible with the consent of heritage commission. Besides alterations made in religious constructions and even new religious constructions would still need permit from corporation as per specific provisions of building rules. Sometimes exemptions are granted as per requests,” an official said.

The biggest headache would be the Red Zone trouble as the place falls under Red Zone of colour-coded zoning map where all structures irrespective of height would need an NOC from airport.