K. Munirathnam Reddy, Director (Epigraphy), Archaeological Survey of India, Mysuru, during his visit to the Sri Panakala Narasimha Swamy Temple at Mangalagiri to review scientific conservation measures.

| Photo Credit: ARRANGEMENT

The Archaeological Survey of India has initiated scientific conservation measures for the historic Sri Panakala Narasimha Swamy temple at Mangalagiri, with experts assessing the structural condition of its centuries-old monuments for their long-term preservation.K. Munirathnam Reddy, Director (Epigraphy), Archaeological Survey of India, Mysuru, told The Hindu that the Ministry of Culture and the ASI had been extending continuous support for the conservation and development of ancient temples in Andhra Pradesh. Following his request, the ASI’s Science Branch in New Delhi deputed Kotayya Vinjamuri, Deputy Superintending Archaeological Chemist and Head of Office, Science Branch, Hyderabad, to undertake a scientific inspection of the temple.Dr. Kotayya visited the temple on July 17 and examined the 16th century mandapam and the 19th century gopuram, which rises to about 153 feet. He submitted a detailed report from the scientific conservation perspective and recommended measures for the long-term preservation of the heritage structures.Mr. Munirathnam Reddy said he had earlier coordinated scientific conservation works at several prominent temples and heritage monuments, including Tirumala, Srinivasa Mangapuram, Vontimitta, Gudimallam, Srisailam, Simhachalam, Srikalahasti, Alipiri Padala Mandapam, Gundluru and Krishnapatnam, and was pleased that similar efforts had now begun at Mangalagiri.He thanked Mangalagiri MLA and Information Technology Minister Nara Lokesh and Andhra Pradesh Endowments Minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy for extending support to the initiative.Calling for greater public participation in heritage conservation, Mr. Munirathnam Reddy appealed to all stakeholders to work together to safeguard the State’s historic temples for future generations. Published - July 18, 2026 05:55 pm IST