Stage set for demolition of Saraswati temple

The stage is set for the demolition of 1500 year old Saraswati temple situated at Kolanu Bharati Kshetram in Kottapalli mandal in Kurnool district. The Endowment department has decided to demolish the oldest structure and replace it with a new temple and on June 3 the temple would be demolished.

However, several people raise their concern over the decision to demolish the structure which was built about 1531 years ago as per the records available with the temple. They point out that such an old temple should be preserved as cultural heritage.A It may be recalled that seven Siva temples were already demolished and rebuilt on the premises of Kolanu Bharati Kshetram last year.

The devotees also point out that the sanctum sanctorum of the presiding deity and the Sri Chakram, established by Adi Sankaracharya should be kept intact and the new temple could be constructed over it. Out of the three Saraswati temples situated in the country the temple at Kolanu Bharati Kshetram is the second one in prominence.

Some experts suggest that the new temple could be built on the western side without demolishing the existing temple. They said that the Endowment department was carried away by some elements who are out to demolish the temple for reasons better known to them.