1.1 CONSERVATION PRINCIPLES Conservation Principles- International Conservation Principles- National... 87

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3 CONTENTS 1.1 CONSERVATION PRINCIPLES Conservation Principles- International Conservation Principles- National DEVELOPMENT OF CONSERVATION POLICY FOR TEMPLES: Need for grading of temples: Grading of temples based on their values: Conservation Approach... Error! Bookmark not defined. 1.3 CONSERVATION PROCESS Documentation: Diagnosis: Stakeholder consultation: Development Of Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan Implementation: CONSERVATION PRACTICE P a g e

4 1.1 CONSERVATION PRINCIPLES A meaningful management of the historic structures depends on sound principles, clear policies and guidance based on those principles, and the quality of decisions that stem from their consistent application. Principles of conservation help in providing a philosophical framework of what conservation means to historic structures of a particular typology. The conservation principles have been re-defined based on specific challenges faced in the conservation of historic structures of different typologies. A look into the International and National principles of conservation can help us position the approach to conservation of the lving temples Conservation Principles- International The internationally accepted standards of conservation practice relating to heritage sites can guide the conservation and renovation of temples in such a way that these structures do not lose their original significance. The Venice Charter (1964) has long been influential for various international charters and documents including recommendations and conventions regardless of different heritage issues and purposes in most countries. The Venice Charter codifies internationally accepted standards of conservation practice relating to architecture and sites. It sets forth principles of conservation based on the concept of authenticity and the importance of maintaining the historical and physical context of a site or building. The Venice Charter continues to be the most influential international conservation document. The Venice Charter states that monuments are to be conserved not only as works of art but also as historical evidence. It also sets down the principles of preservation, which relate to restoration of buildings with work from different periods. In particular the Venice Charter strongly influenced the Burra Charter drafted by Australia ICOMOS in The Burra Charter is regarded as one of the most significant international charters after the Venice Charter for cultural place management. 75 P a g e

5 There has been a paradigm shift of conservation from the physical environment to invisible values. The Burra Charter (1979) was the first one to discuss the place and its value in historic sites instead of using only the physical sense of heritage. Most earlier international charters emphasized the physical context and interpretation of its built environments, not the methodology of site value and its interpretation as intangible site value until the Burra Charter (1979; revised 1999) appeared. The Burra Charter was the first international document to change the traditional concept of heritage from tangible to intangible. With this in mind, the range of applications of the Burra Charter can include almost all types of heritage sites which have historic and indigenous significance. A significant number of charters, principles, and guidelines including the Nara Document on Authenticity (1994), the Burra Charter (1999), have emphasized the fundamental role of sensitive and effective interpretation in heritage conservation. The Nara document on Authenticity (1994) reveals the challenging concept that cultural heritage diversity demands respect for other cultures and all respects of their belief systems. It also states that all judgments about values attributed to cultural properties as well as the credibility of related information sources may differ from culture to culture, and even within the same culture. It is thus not possible to base judgments of values and authenticity within fixed criteria. Venice Charter : International Charter for the Conservation and Restoration of heritage structures and Sites (1964) Article 1. The concept of a historic monument embraces not only the single architectural work but also the urban or rural setting in which is found the evidence of a particular civilization, a significant development or a historic event. This applies not only to great works of art but also to more modest works of the past which have acquired cultural significance with the passing of time. 76 P a g e

6 Article 2. The conservation and restoration of monuments must have recourse to all the sciences and techniques which can contribute to the study and safeguarding of the architectural heritage. Article 3. The intention in conserving and restoring monuments is to safeguard them no less as works of art than as historical evidence. CONSERVATION Article 4. It is essential to the conservation of monuments that they be maintained on a permanent basis. Article 5. The conservation of monuments is always facilitated by making use of them for some socially useful purpose. Such use is therefore desirable but it must not change the layout or decoration of the building. It is within these limits only that modifications demanded by a change of function should be envisaged and may be permitted. Article 6. The conservation of a monument implies preserving a setting which is not out of scale. Wherever the traditional setting exists, it must be kept. No new construction, demolition or modification which would alter the relations of mass and colour must be allowed. Article 7. A monument is inseparable from the history to which it bears witness and from the setting in which it occurs. The moving of all or part of a monument cannot be allowed except where the safeguarding of that monument demands it or where it is justified by national or international interest of paramount importance. 77 P a g e

7 Article 8. Items of sculpture, painting or decoration which form an integral part of a monument may only be removed from it if this is the sole means of ensuring their preservation. RESTORATION Article 9. The process of restoration is a highly specialized operation. Its aim is to preserve and reveal the aesthetic and historic value of the monument and is based on respect for original material and authentic documents. It must stop at the point where conjecture begins, and in this case moreover any extra work which is indispensable must be distinct from the architectural composition and must bear a contemporary stamp. The restoration in any case must be preceded and followed by an archaeological and historical study of the monument. Article 10. Where traditional techniques prove inadequate, the consolidation of a monument can be achieved by the use of any modern technique for conservation and construction, the efficacy of which has been shown by scientific data and proved by experience. Article 11. The valid contributions of all periods to the building of a monument must be respected, since unity of style is not the aim of a restoration. When a building includes the superimposed work of different periods, the revealing of the underlying state can only be justified in exceptional circumstances and when what is removed is of little interest and the material which is brought to light is of great historical, archaeological or aesthetic value, and its state of preservation good enough to justify the action. Evaluation of the importance of the elements involved and the decision as to what may be destroyed cannot rest solely on the individual in charge of the work. Article P a g e

8 Replacements of missing parts must integrate harmoniously with the whole, but at the same time must be distinguishable from the original so that restoration does not falsify the artistic or historic evidence. Article 13. Additions cannot be allowed except in so far as they do not detract from the interesting parts of the building, its traditional setting, the balance of its composition and its relation with its surroundings. The Australia ICOMOS Charter for the Conservation of Places of Cultural Significance/ Burra Charter (1979; revised 1999): The Charter is particularly significant for its definition of cultural significance and the standards it outlines for using cultural significance to manage and conserve cultural sites. It provides an example of how international principles can be adapted to the values and needs of a particular nation or particular cultural groups within that nation. Article 2 Conservation and management 2.2 The aim of conservation is to retain the cultural significance of a place. 2.3 Conservation is an integral part of good management of places of cultural significance. 2.4 Places of cultural significance should be safeguarded and not put at risk or left in a vulnerable state. Article 3. Cautious approach 3.1 Conservation is based on a respect for the existing fabric, use, associations and meanings. It requires a cautious approach of changing as much as necessary but as little as possible. 3.2 Changes to a place should not distort the physical or other evidence it provides, nor be based on conjecture. Article 4. Knowledge, skills and techniques 79 P a g e

9 4.1 Conservation should make use of all the knowledge, skills and disciplines which can contribute to the study and care of the place. 4.2 Traditional techniques and materials are preferred for the conservation of significant fabric. In some circumstances modern techniques and materials which offer substantial conservation benefits may be appropriate. Article 5. Values 5.1 Conservation of a place should identify and take into consideration all aspects of cultural and natural significance without unwarranted emphasis on any one value at the expense of others. 5.2 Relative degrees of cultural significance may lead to different conservation actions at a place. Article 6. Burra Charter Process 6.1 The cultural significance of a place and other issues affecting its future are best understood by a sequence of collecting and analysing information before making decisions. Understanding cultural significance comes first, then development of policy and finally management of the place in accordance with the policy. This is the Burra Charter Process 6.2 Policy for managing a place must be based on an understanding of its cultural significance. 6.3 Policy development should also include consideration of other factors affecting the future of a place such as the owner s needs, resources, external constraints and its physical condition. 6.4 In developing an effective policy, different ways to retain cultural significance and address other factors may need to be explored. 80 P a g e

10 Article 7. Use 7.1 Where the use of a place is of cultural significance it should be retained. 7.2 A place should have a compatible use Article 8. Setting Conservation requires the retention of an appropriate setting. This includes retention of the visual and sensory setting, as well as the retention of spiritual and other cultural relationships that contribute to the cultural significance of the place. New construction, demolition, intrusions or other changes which would adversely affect the setting or relationships are not appropriate. Article 9. Location 9.1 The physical location of a place is part of its cultural significance. A building, work or other element of a place should remain in its historical location. Relocation is generally unacceptable unless this is the sole practical means of ensuring its survival. 9.2 Some buildings, works or other elements of places were designed to be readily removable or already have a history of relocation. Provided such buildings, works or other elements do not have significant links with their present location, removal may be appropriate. 9.3 If any building, work or other element is moved, it should be moved to an appropriate location and given an appropriate use. Such action should not be to the detriment of any place of cultural significance. Article 10. Contents Contents, fixtures and objects which contribute to the cultural significance of a place should be retained at that place. Their removal is unacceptable unless it is: the sole means of ensuring their security and preservation; on a temporary basis for treatment or 81 P a g e

11 exhibition; for cultural reasons; for health and safety; or to protect the place. Such contents, fixtures and objects should be returned where circumstances permit and it is culturally appropriate. Article 11. Related places and objects The contribution which related places and related objects make to the cultural significance of the place should be retained. Article 12. Participation Conservation, interpretation and management of a place should provide for the participation of people for whom the place has significant associations and meanings, or who have social, spiritual or other cultural responsibilities for the place. Article 13. Coexistence of cultural values Co-existence of cultural values should always be recognised, respected and encouraged. This is especially important in cases where they conflict. Article 14. Conservation Processes Conservation processes Conservation may, according to circumstance, include the processes of: retention or reintroduction of a use; retention of associations and meanings; maintenance, preservation, restoration, reconstruction, adaptation and interpretation; and will commonly include a combination of more than one of these. Conservation may also include retention of the contribution that related places and related objects make to the cultural significance of a place. Article 16. Maintenance Maintenance is fundamental to conservation. Maintenance should be undertaken where fabric is of cultural significance and its maintenance is necessary to retain that cultural significance. Article 17. Preservation 82 P a g e

12 Preservation is appropriate where the existing fabric or its condition constitutes evidence of cultural significance, or where insufficient evidence is available to allow other conservation processes to be carried out. Article 18. Restoration and reconstruction Restoration and reconstruction should reveal culturally significant aspects of the place. Article 19. Restoration Restoration is appropriate only if there is sufficient evidence of an earlier state of the fabric. Article 20. Reconstruction 20.1 Reconstruction is appropriate only where a place is incomplete through damage or alteration, and only where there is sufficient evidence to reproduce an earlier state of the fabric. In some cases, reconstruction may also be appropriate as part of a use or practice that retains the cultural significance of the place Reconstruction should be identifiable on close inspection or through additional interpretation. Article 24. Retaining associations and meanings 24.1 Significant associations between people and a place should be respected, retained and not obscured. Opportunities for the interpretation, commemoration and celebration of these associations should be investigated and implemented Significant meanings, including spiritual values, of a place should be respected. Opportunities for the continuation or revival of these meanings should be investigated and implemented. Nara document on Authenticity (1994): Values and authenticity The Nara Document builds on the Venice Charter in light of an expanding scope of cultural heritage concerns. It addresses the need for a broader understanding of 83 P a g e

13 cultural diversity and cultural heritage as it relates to the conservation. The document underscores the importance of considering the cultural and social values of all societies. It emphasizes respect for other cultures, other values, and the tangible and intangible expressions that form part of the heritage of every culture. There are no fixed criteria to judge value and authenticity of cultural property; rather it must be evaluated within the cultural context to which it belongs. Though responsibility for the care and management of heritage belongs primarily to the culture that produced it, the document calls for adherence to the principles and responsibilities imposed by international charters. CULTURAL DIVERSITY AND HERITAGE DIVERSITY Article 5. The diversity of cultures and heritage in our world is an irreplaceable source of spiritual and intellectual richness for all humankind. The protection and enhancement of cultural and heritage diversity in our world should be actively promoted as an essential aspect of human development. Article 6. Cultural heritage diversity exists in time and space, and demands respect for other cultures and all aspects of their belief systems. In cases where cultural values appear to be in conflict, respect for cultural diversity demands acknowledgment of the legitimacy of the cultural values of all parties. Article 7. All cultures and societies are rooted in the particular forms and means of tangible and intangible expression which constitute their heritage, and these should be respected. Article 8. It is important to underline a fundamental principle of UNESCO, to the effect that the cultural heritage of each is the cultural heritage of all. Responsibility for cultural heritage and the management of it belongs, in the first place, to the cultural community that has generated it, and subsequently to that which cares for it. However, in addition to these responsibilities, adherence to the international charters and conventions developed for conservation of cultural heritage also obliges consideration of the principles and responsibilities flowing from them. Balancing their own requirements with 84 P a g e

14 those of other cultural communities is, for each community, highly desirable, provided achieving this balance does not undermine their fundamental cultural values. VALUES AND AUTHENTICITY Article 9. Conservation of cultural heritage in all its forms and historical periods is rooted in the values attributed to the heritage. Our ability to understand these values depends, in part, on the degree to which information sources about these values may be understood as credible or truthful. Knowledge and understanding of these sources of information, in relation to original and subsequent characteristics of the cultural heritage, and their meaning, is a requisite basis for assessing all aspects of authenticity. Article 10. Authenticity, considered in this way and affirmed in the Charter of Venice, appears as the essential qualifying factor concerning values. The understanding of authenticity plays a fundamental role in all scientific studies of the cultural heritage, in conservation and restoration planning, as well as within the inscription procedures used for the World Heritage Convention and other cultural heritage inventories. Article 11. All judgements about values attributed to cultural properties as well as the credibility of related information sources may differ from culture to culture, and even within the same culture. It is thus not possible to base judgements of values and authenticity within fixed criteria. On the contrary, the respect due to all cultures requires that heritage properties must be considered and judged within the cultural contexts to which they belong. Article 12. Therefore, it is of the highest importance and urgency that, within each culture, recognition be accorded to the specific nature of its heritage values and the credibility and truthfulness of related information sources. Article 13. Depending on the nature of the cultural heritage, its cultural context, and its evolution through time, authenticity judgements may be linked to the worth of a great variety of sources of information. Aspects of the sources may include form and design, materials and substance, use and function, traditions and techniques, location and 85 P a g e

15 setting, and spirit and feeling, and other internal and external factors. The use of these sources permits elaboration of the specific artistic, historic, social, and scientific dimensions of the cultural heritage being examined. 'Living Religious Heritage: Conserving the Sacred' ICCROM Forum 2003 Many of the International charters reveal the explicit concern on cultural heritage conservation at the international level. Guidelines for conservation were developed for the conservation approach of each specific type of cultural heritage. But one of the distinct types of cultural heritage still has unclear guidelines in the form of a Charter, The living Religious Heritage, is the issue requiring its own specific conservation approach. The historic temples are part of the Living Religious Heritage and their need to be conserved along with the tangible and intangible traditional systems is undisputable. In the ICCROM Forum on the theme of 'Living Religious Heritage: Conserving the Sacred', the experts with experience of managing 'Living Religious Heritage' in different regions of the world were asked to prepare papers in case-study form. By the way of conclusion, the papers from the ICCROM Forum 2003 were proposed with regard to understanding living religious heritage as follows: 1. Living religious heritage is of particular importance, given its vital role in conveying, expressing and sustaining the faiths which give spiritual identity, meaning and purpose to human life. Living religious heritage is the tangible and intangible embodiment of the many and diverse failths which have sustained human life through time. 2. Understanding living, religious heritage requires recognizing that the intangible significance of the tangible religious objects, structures and places is the key tp their meaning. The tangible and intangible cannot be separated since all cultural material has intangible value. Living religious heritage is expressed in cultural material: the tangible structures, objects and works of arts created to support forms of worship within a particular faith and in associated intangible rituals, 86 P a g e

16 celebrations and devotional activities. In all cases, the tangible and intangible manifestations of the heritage carry intagible values, expressing the significance of the heritage communities who consider it important. 3. Living heritage is as risk in a number of ways: from fluctuating commitment to faith itself in different parts of the world, from lack of understanding of the nature of religious heritage and the role that conservation can play in sustaining faith, and from a lack of respect for the aspiration of religious communities. Conservation policy making must recognize the special nature of the living religious heritage, and give it priority. They also need to be developed following the dialogue within the religious community and between it and the secular authorities. 4. The care of this heritage is primarily the responsibility of the religious community from whom this heritage has importance, at local and/or global levels. The conservation of living religious heritage is ideally initiated by the religious community and carried out in collaboration with the conservation professionals. 5. The evolution and adoption of religious practices, rituals, or festivals to contemporary circumstances should be understood as a normal part of the continuity of religious heritage and should be respected in conservation decisionmaking. Lay authorities uniquely responsible for conserving heritage may impose limits on the degree of change to be tolerated in living religious heritage. It is important that conservation efforts do not attempt to freeze either forms or traditions at a moment n time, but rather guide the inevitable changes in ways which are sympathetic to the survival of past expressions Conservation Principles- National The National Conservation Policy s exclusive focuses on the preservation of ASI monuments. It pertains to monuments, archaeological sites and remains protected by the ASI. The draft represents a serious relook of conservation guidelines followed by the ASI. Though, it does not specifically address the conservation of the living religious heritage structures in India, it provides an approach towards conservation of heritage 87 P a g e

17 structures. and incorporates new developments and technologies for monument preservation and also highlights the role of craftsmen in the conservation process. Excerpt from the "National Policy For Conservation Of The Ancient Monuments, Archaeological Sites And Remains" (NPC AMASR) protected by the Archaeological Survey Of India Article 3 Conservation of Monuments (Value based intervention) Article 3.01 It is important to define nature of conservation intervention for monuments based on their value / significance which is to determine nature and extent of intervention required for the conservation of a monument. The imperative of such value based approach derives from the nature / typology of a monument and interpretation of its value / significance, for instance:. Article 3.02 Preservation should be attempted on monuments with a high archaeological value such as archaeological sites and remains, portions of monuments with decorative features such as wall paintings, inscriptions and calligraphy, sculptures, etc.; Article 3.03 Restoration may be undertaken on monuments with high architectural value and only in parts of a monument wherein there are missing geometric or floral patterns, or structural members of a monument if damaged recently. At no cost, there should be an attempt to restore an entire building as it will attempt to falsify history and will compromise its authenticity. Similarly, decorative features such as wall paintings, inscriptions and calligraphy and sculptures should not be restored. Article 3.04 Reconstruction may be undertaken for such monuments wherein such an intervention is the only way to retain or retrieve their integrity / context and without which its survival is imminently impossible. Reconstruction should be attempted only for a monument that is damaged on account of a disaster or that has collapsed due to failure of its structural and material integrity. Reconstruction should be attempted only in extreme cases. 88 P a g e

18 Article 3.05 Reproduction of a part of a monument may be undertaken for such a monument whose original members (structural and / or ornamental) have deteriorated and lost their structural and material integrity and removing these from their original location is the only way to saving those members and also monuments. Article 4 Conservation Principles Article 4.01 Conservation of monuments, archaeological sites and remains constitutes all necessary action or intervention within and around a monument to a) prolong its existence; b) prevent its decay, and c) minimise the impact of external agents of decay (natural and human induced) on its setting, structure and material. Article 4.02 A monument or an archaeological site should be subject to minimum - whilst only necessary - interventions in order to maintain its authenticity and integrity. Original/Historical material or an architectural / ornamental detail (structural or nonstructural) must be retained for as long as possible and should not be replaced without a proper investigation or simply because these have been slightly eroded / deteriorated. Article 4.03 All efforts to conserve a monument shall be to retain its value / significance, its authenticity and integrity, including visual connections to and from the monument, and shall truly represent its original / historic appearance. All efforts to maintain their authenticity and integrity shall be to ensure that they are kept in their original state or, in certain cases, in an earlier known state or in a state as they were discovered at the time of their notification (or protection). Article 4.04 Conservation of a monument is a continuous process. Adequate resources (human and financial) would be made available to conserve a monument for posterity. Article 4.05 Any intervention to be proposed for the conservation of a monument should in no case be based on any conjecture or artistic imagination and should be based on reliable documentary evidences (past conservation records, documents, paintings, photographs, travelogues, etc.), in-situ architectural and / or archaeological evidences. 89 P a g e

19 Article 4.06 Conservation should be treated as a multi-disciplinary enterprise focusing on developing a holistic solution to prevent various agencies of decay to act upon a monument. It will be critical to have multiple studies undertaken so as to develop an overarching conservation philosophy and approach. Article 4.07 Conservation of the original / historical material should be an essential prerequisite in order to sustain the time-dimension of a monument which confirms its antiquity. Article 4.08 All interventions carried out within a monument should, as far as possible, be clearly discernible as a later alteration / repair / restoration, etc., to be able to clearly identify them from the original. However, in certain cases where the intention is to merge the new intervention into the original fabric of the monument, for the sake of maintaining architectural integrity, work must be done very carefully by matching the original material / detail in terms of form, colour and specification. The decision for achieving such objectives should be carefully recorded / documented for posterity Article 5 Conservation Approach Article 5.01 Conservation of a monument should employ state-of-the-art scientific equipment and technology to facilitate research and understanding of the physical nature of monuments, analysis of its materials and construction technology, and that of its current condition (due to natural or human induced causes). Use of appropriate technology should also be mandated for documentation purposes. Article 5.02 Conservation should not only limit itself to the intervention within the structure / fabric of a monument but shall also include protection and maintenance of the setting or environment integral to it. Article 5.05 The entire process of conservation should be documented prior to, during and after conservation through maps, drawings, photographs, digital records and field notes in order to create records of interventions. The documentation should capture various stages of intervention and should be undertaken to capture all relevant details of an intervention. 90 P a g e

20 Article 5.06 Critical attention should be paid in case a monument is in use and continues to perform its original intended function. In such cases, it is important to review existing conservation approaches / philosophies keeping in mind conservation concerns as well as functions that are being performed within the monument and intrinsic to its being a living heritage. Thus, conservation and functional issues pertaining to such a monument should be seen as a harmonious and complementary activity and should be balanced in a way that there is no compromise to its authenticity and integrity. Article 5.07 Original / historical material or details may or may not be replaced depending upon whether or not the archaeological or architectural integrity of the monument is to be retained. Replacement of parts of the material fabric or a detail may be considered only if it has completely lost its inherent material strength or structural integrity. Replacement may only be undertaken to prevent further deterioration, formation of faults or decay of other portions of the structure. Article 5.08 If the original material or detail is at all to be replaced it must be the last option to be exercised and shall be undertaken only upon ensuring that no other conservation action can ensure its survival. Original material / detail, once it is decided for replacement, as far as possible, should be stored in a safe environment for the purpose of conducting further investigations / research, or it may even be put on display for the purpose of education / interpretation. Article 5.09 Time-dimension (i.e., antiquity or age) should be maintained by preserving the patina (surface encrustation) of the material or its surfaces (exterior and interior). Hence, care should be taken to clean the material in a way that whilst all biodeterioration agents are removed, the patina, which is the protective layer, is maintained. Any intervention to clean surfaces should be undertaken after a thorough research and documentation. Article 5.10 The use of inappropriate and modern synthetic chemicals for cleaning or conservation may be avoided keeping in view their incompatibility with the original fabric 91 P a g e

21 of a monument. Their likely action towards acceleration of the decay process must be properly investigated before its actual use in conservation work. Article 6 Role of Building Craftsmanship in Conservation Article 6.01 India is blessed with the continuing existence of traditional masons, crafts persons, carvers, etc., with their practices still available and functioning in different parts of the country. They practice Indian ancient traditions of construction, detailing, sculpting, carving and painting, and their traditional knowledge systems are replete with the understanding of ritualistic aspects and principles and elements of design employed in the production, construction or carving of architectural or ornamental members embellishing a monument. In most cases these traditional knowledge have been transferred within families from a parent to his / her child for generations or following Guru-Shishya parampara (teacher-disciple tradition). Article 6.02 Craftspersons that comprise traditional builders and masons such as Sthapatis, stone carvers, carpenters, woodcarvers, ironsmiths, painters, etc., to name a few, can play a great role in the conservation process as they are living repositories of building and artistic traditions which have been sustained through generations and, thus, their role in conserving a monument is paramount. Article 6.03 Traditional and ritualistic knowledge in building construction and in the understanding of a material and its application should not only be respected but should be widely applied for the conservation of a monument In Summary: The need for development of guidelines for conservation of living heritage temples in Tamil Nadu: The living heritage temples have always been the centre of the socio-cultural system and their functioning is important for the continuity of the traditional and cultural values, art forms, and practices. Merely the conservation of the temple structure alone cannot ensure this continuity. While, several international charters highlight the need for 92 P a g e

22 the conservation of intangible heritage such as these traditional systems, it is a prerogative to formulate guidelines that ensure the continuity of both the tangible material structure of the temple as well as the intangible cultural system in the conservation of the living heritage temples. The principles of conservation discussed in the preceding paragraphs are essential in guiding the conservation and maintenance of temple structures. However, the conservation concept for these living heritage structures should be different from other cultural heritage places. Its conservation concept must recognize the intangible religious values inherent in the tangible temple design. It is important that conservation does not attempt to freeze them at a moment in time, but rather guide the inevitable changes in ways which are sympathetic to the past as well as present expressions. Thus, there is a need for providing specific guideline for the conservation the living temples, a new approach for the conservation of living temples must be adopted to ensure all heritage values of the living temples are carried over truthfully to the future generations. 1.2 DEVELOPMENT OF CONSERVATION POLICY FOR TEMPLES: 93 P a g e

23 Management of a living heritage is not only the conservation of the built structure but also the conservation of the traditional systems of construction and the ritual functioning of the structures. This is vastly different from the conservation principles followed in purely archaeological sites. Integrating the living practice and the conservation practice seems the only sustainable way of preserving this type of heritage. The traditional knowledge system, based on aagamas and shasthras advocate the concept of jeernodharana (as discussed in introduction chapter).the emphasis is on the continuation of traditional rites and the built structure as such holds secondary priority. Periodic renewal of the structures is encouraged embracing change, always within continuity, and thus ensuring the relevance of a site to the present situation. When dealing with restoration of temple structures, the traditional texts strongly advocate restoration to the original state. The emphasis of traditional texts on retaining the same material, compositional and sculptural program and restoration to the original dimensions is consistent with the principles of conservation. However, demolition, relocation, the restoration or reconstruction to grandeur are also important themes 94 P a g e

24 discussed in the Agama shastras. Different temples are born from different ways of worship and the architectural manifestation and their significance is also based on different agama shasthras (as discussed in the introduction chapter). Hence an informed decision must be taken on a case to case basis when dealing with any discrepancy between conservation principles and traditional texts Need for grading of temples: Since there is a wide spectrum of temples under HR&CE ranging from sites of historic importance to new constructions, temples of archaeological/architectural importance may be mandated to follow the conservation principles as laid down, while there may be more flexibility in dealing with some of the other cases. There is a need to evaluate the temples for appropriate conservation strategies using criteria relevant to the structures and initiate steps for conservation, renovation or maintenance that are specific to the nature of the temple. Therefore it is necessary to grade the temples based on their value, in such a way that there is room for flexibility for renovation and reconstruction work in most temples provided it does not affect the intrinsic value of the structures. Traditional knowledge systems should also be recognized as part of the heritage management Grading of temples based on their values: Historic value: Value based on the age of the structure, association with historic events. Ancient temples with a history behind their establishment: Certain temples have a special sacred status and are called puradhana koil. The puradhana koils are temples that have a sacred history behind their establishment, they may be 1)deiva prathistai: The icon or symbol which is believed to be installed and worshipped by divine personage viz. Bhrama, Indra, Vayu, Varuna, etc 95 P a g e

25 2) siddhar prathistai: established by are saints 3) Swayambu: means "self-manifested" or "that which is created by its own accord". There should be minimum intervention in these puradhana temples unless there is any structural distress in the temple structure that may affect the safety of the structure or the safety of the devotees. Literary value: mention of temple in ancient hymns. These temples are called 'Padal Petra Sthalam'.This includes 274 Saivite temples sung in the ancient Thevarams and Thirumurai hymns by the Adiyars and 108 Vaishnavite temples sung in the ancient Divyaprabandha hymns by the Alwars. Architectural Value: based on physical characteristics of design, construction or form representing a particular style or period in architectural history Inscriptional And Artistic Value: temples with inscriptions, mural or relief work that need to be preserved in their original state. Emotional/Cultural Value: temple's association with the culture and cultural practices of a community or a region. Sites with high historic, architectural or artistic value Follow traditional texts within conservation principles Sites with comparatively lower value Follow traditional texts beyond conservation principles Value-based approach Living heritage approach 96 P a g e

26 Such a system of grading highlights a structure of special interest and its value and gives it priority for conservation with minimal intervention and further protection under law or policy. The listing process requires collection of information from various sources on a vast number of temple structures and must be supported by field work reviewing the temple structures which may be further developed into formulating a means of grading the structures. The above discussed parameters shall be a criteria for such a listing process based on their heritage value. 1.3 CONSERVATION PROCESS Methodology: The conservation process must include a detailed documentation, diagnosis of the structure and Stake-holder consultation after which A Comprehensive Conservation Management Plan is to be prepared. This proposal should then be examined by experts in the field before implementation Documentation: Documentation should be taken up before, during and after any conservation intervention, repairs, alteration, reuse or other intervention to the heritage structure. Documentation process may include various levels of detail. The simplest form of documentation would be a visual record through photographs supplemented by a description of the architectural features. Further documentation is essential when any intervention is to be made to the built structure. This may include survey of the structure and its damage, survey of materials and their decay and any other signs of distress. With the information from the survey a diagnostic study is to be done. 97 P a g e

27 1.3.2 Diagnosis: Diagnosis is a judgment on the cause and nature of damage, cracks, decay and other phenomenon that have affected the structure. An effective conservation method can be adopted with diagnostic studies which may include Geo-technical Survey, Material Analysis and Mapping of Structural Distresses. These investigations must be done with minimal intervention to the structure using 'Non-Destructive Testing Techniques' wherever possible Stakeholder consultation: Conservation of heritage structures is an interdisciplinary effort, wherein traditional knowledge on building materials, techniques and specifications are brought to the realm of current practitioners of conservation engineering, with the intent of merging them with modern tools and practices. Stake-holders in Temple Conservation: Role of Conservation Architects, Experts from the Archaeological Survey of India, State Departments of Archeology, and the State Museum: The commissioner should get the opinion of the experts in the field before approval of the conservation proposal. The experts may include conservation architects, retired or serving experts in the archaeological survey of India, state archeology department, museum and non-government professionals working in this field. This panel may be reviewed every 6th year. Before any major work which may affect the structure of temples with high value, conservation experts specializing in structural conservation must be consulted. 98 P a g e

28 Stapathi: The Stapathi has the most important role when dealing with non-secular constructions. In the conservation process the Stapathi's role is crucial when dealing with temple structures, the idols of the deities, worshipped in the temples as well as the sculptural program. The stapathi can be consulted to offer solutions based on shilpa shastras. The Stapathi must also be involved in the preparing of estimates, which must be as per the HR&CE act. In case of any restoration or reconstruction work involving changes in the geometry of the temple, the Stapathi must be consulted and these changes must be done according to the ayadi calculations and other traditional practices prescribed in the shastras. Agama-experts: 1. Agama experts play an important role in new constructions in establishing the spiritual rites before and during the temple construction. 2. They should also be consulted during renovation to give their opinion about the suitable dates and time for balalayam, asstabandhanam and Kumbabishkam. 3. They must be consulted for any repair or replacement or conservation work related to the main idols that are worshipped in the temple. Public Participation The temples in use also have certain emotional values attached to their physical structure as well as the ritual practices. The involvement of the people who use the structure can help throw light on the necessary steps to be taken to ensure the satisfactory use of the temples, without disturbing the temple fabric. Role of Trustees The trustees of the temple are responsible for taking policy decisions, resolutions and bring to the notice of the department any signs of distress in the temple structure. They have responsibility to perpetuate the heritage, archeological and architectural value of the temples tangible and intangible assests. 99 P a g e

29 Role of Donors: Donors willing to fund renovation work must give a written statement that they will abide by procedures an prescriptions set under the Act and rules relevant to temple structures. They must follow the prescribed format in order to get approval from the department. The preparation of estimates must be as per the HR&CE Act and Rules. They must take the responsibility to record and allow department measurement and supervision of any work done Development Of Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan. The Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan is an important tool in caring for heritage structures. It is a document that sets out the significance of the structure and what policies are appropriate to enable that significance to be retained in its future use and development. The document should provide information to help assess the application including clear identification of constraints and opportunities that affect the conservation process and clear policies as to which fabric or elements are to be conserved. The CCMP must suggest programmes of action and priorities for any conservation work that is to be followed. This may be given in order of priority as follows: Immediate work that must be done straight away for the safety of the structure or its users. Urgent work that is required to prevent active deterioration by natural or man-made causes. 100 P a g e

30 Necessary work that is required for continued, uninterrupted use of the structures. heritage Desired work that is recommended by the HR&CE department in context to the needs of the users. The CCMP sets the target dates for implementation as well as an operational management framework for its implementation Implementation: Once the final draft of the document is approved by the commissioner in consultation with the stake holders and experts in the field, drawn from various departments in the centre and state, conservation work may be carried on as per the CCMP. 1.4 CONSERVATION PRACTICE The Burra Charter has laid out the important aspects of conservation practice that are highly recommended for the conservation of the temple structures of historic significance. Some of these practices are highlighted in this manual and these should be abided by during the conservation process Implementation of the Conservation Process Work on a place should be preceded by studies to understand the place which should include analysis of physical, documentary, oral and other evidence, drawing on appropriate knowledge, skills and disciplines. Written statements of cultural significance and policy for the place should be prepared, justified and accompanied by supporting evidence. The statements of significance and policy should be incorporated into a management plan for the place. 101 P a g e

31 Statements of cultural significance and policy for the place should be periodically reviewed, and actions and their consequences monitored to ensure continuing appropriateness and effectiveness. Existing fabric, use, associations and meanings should be adequately recorded before and after any changes are made to the place. Disturbance of significant fabric for study, or to obtain evidence, should be minimised. Study of a place by any disturbance of the fabric, including archaeological excavation, should only be undertaken to provide data essential for decisions on the conservation of the place, or to obtain important evidence about to be lost or made inaccessible Disturbance of fabric Investigation of a place which requires disturbance of the fabric, apart from that necessary to make decisions, may be appropriate provided that it is consistent with the policy for the place. Such investigation should be based on important research questions which have potential to substantially add to knowledge, which cannot be answered in other ways and which minimises disturbance of significant fabric Responsibility The individuals responsible for management and decisions should be named and specific responsibility taken for each decision Direction, supervision and implementation Competent direction and supervision should be maintained at all stages, and any changes should be implemented by people with appropriate knowledge and skills Keeping a log New evidence may come to light while implementing policy or a plan for a place. Other factors may arise and require new decisions. A log of new evidence and additional decisions should be kept. 102 P a g e