UNESCO Award-Winning Reconstruction of Thukkachi Temple in Tamil Nadu: A Blend of Traditional Wisdom and Modern Technology

Renovated Abathsahayeswarar Temple at Thukkachi in Thanjavur District | Photo credit: R. Vengadesh

The oft-used phrase “rising like a phoenix from the ashes” finds its perfect expression in the story of the Abathsahayeswarar temple at Thukkachi near Kumbakonam in Thanjavur district. A remarkable testament to the architectural brilliance of the later Cholas, this 12th century shrine offered a pitiful sight barely five years ago.

Its outer prakara wall has collapsed, the towering entrance gopuram has partially collapsed and been engulfed by vegetation, and decades of neglect have left the monument in a state of dereliction. The Kali shrine and her mahamandapam in the temple complex were crumbling and were declared off-limits due to the danger posed by falling granite blocks.

Published – 15 Jul 2026 05:45 IST