Fears that renovation could alter the idols and heritage structures of a revered village temple in Andhra Pradesh dating back to 1880 have prompted judicial intervention, with the Andhra Pradesh High Court directing authorities to follow religious customs and traditional procedures, including Agama Shastras, while carrying out reconstruction.
Justice B M heard a writ petition concerning the ongoing renovation of Kasi Visweswara Swamy Temple in Tsunduru village of Guntur district, filed by devotees and members of the family traditionally associated with the 140-year-old temple’s management, who alleged reconstruction works were being undertaken without adhering to established religious customs.
“Though the said temple may not be a recognised temple under the Andhra Pradesh Ancient and Historical Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1960, the same is more than 100 years old; it is for the authorities to see that the archaeological value of the same should not be compromised,” the court observed.
While refraining from adjudicating disputed facts at this preliminary stage, the high court emphasised the need to balance renovation efforts with preservation of heritage and religious traditions. The court directed the respondent authorities to ensure all religious customs and procedures contemplated under ‘Agama Shastras’ are strictly followed while carrying out renovation works.
It also instructed them to consult the Stapathis appointed for the project before proceeding further with reconstruction activities. The directions were extended to any future reconstruction work involving the temple’s sub-shrines as well.
The case revolves around Sri Kasi Visweswara Swamy Temple, which petitioners say was constructed in 1880 by the Gade family and has been managed and developed by successive generations of the family and local devotees. Apart from the main deity, the temple complex houses several sub-shrines, including Papa Vinasana Swamy Temple.
According to petitioners, the temple is not merely a place of worship but a significant part of the village’s religious and cultural heritage. They alleged respondents had begun demolition and reconstruction without complying with Agama Shastras, customary practices and statutory requirements governing temple renovations.
A major concern was alleged damage to idols during the renovation process. Petitioners alleged the “Moola Virata”, the principal Shivalingam of the temple, was damaged during removal. They contended that works were proceeding without proper consultation and without following traditional religious procedures.
The Endowments Department disputed allegations, maintaining renovation was undertaken according to established customs. The government stated ₹98 lakh was sanctioned under the Common Group Fund scheme, with villagers contributing ₹49 lakh, taking the project cost to ₹1.47 crore.
Authorities told the court the principal idol removal was completed a day before the hearing under the supervision of the executive officer and village elders, strictly according to Agama Shastras.
The matter has been posted for hearing immediately after the summer vacation of 2026.
Ancient temples deserve protection while modernisation respects tradition and faith.
Follow Dharmic News for updates on temple heritage and judicial interventions protecting Hindu sacred sites.
