12th-century Kapilash temple in Dhenkanal wallows in neglect

Famous Shaivite pilgrimage site Kapilash nestled in the Dhenkanal district is enduring significant neglect. Although the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) previously undertaken restoration efforts, the temple's structural condition has rapidly deteriorated.

According to sources, the roof has developed cracks and exposed iron rods, leading to water leakage into the sanctum sanctorum during rainfall. The once vibrant surrounding landscape has also succumbed to deterioration, evident to all who visit.

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The temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati, located within the same complex, also exhibits signs of disrepair. Maintenance and renovation efforts appear insufficient, sparking strong dissatisfaction among devotees coming to the shrine and the temple’s servitors.

An ASI team had conducted repairs, but the impressive heritage structure quickly relapsed back into its neglected condition, some of the servitors alleged.

Standing at around 2,200 feet above sea level, the temple of Lord Chandrasekhar, which dates back to the 12th century, continues to draw devotees from across Odisha and beyond. However, concerns have been raised regarding inadequate lighting along the path to this hilltop shrine, creating challenges for visitors.

Moreover, the absence of rest sheds has left the devotees exposed to harsh sunlight while waiting for darshan.

“Water tank is leaking, so also the sanctum sanctorum. Everywhere you will see leakages. Housekeeping is very poor and you will get to see heaps of garbage at all places inside the temple,” a devotee Gangadhar Samal rued.

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“Neither the premises are being cleaned nor are the rituals being performed properly. The servitors are also not getting their remuneration. So to say, nothing is done in proper order. A demand was earlier made to appoint an executive officer or assistant executive officer for the temple, which has not been done yet,” another devotee Ratan Nayyar said.

In response to these concerns, Dhenkanal endowment official Bibuddha Gadanayak stated, “Lightings at eight points, which had some timer problem, have been repaired. We have given instruction to TPCODL to install one more transformer.”

“We are unable to take up any repairing work as the temple is under the control of ASI. Goddess Parvati’s temple has run down and needs repair,” the endowment official added.