Ancient stone steps unearthed during Mahalaxmi Temple conservation works in Kolhapur

Kolhapur: Ongoing conservation and development works at the Mahalaxmi Temple on Monday revealed four intricately carved stone steps of the Garud Mandap, which were buried underground.The Paschim Maharashtra Devasthan Samiti (PMDS) has informed the state archaeology department about the discovery and proposed that these steps be excavated 2-3 ft further, so that the original construction of the temple buried underground can be unearthed.Out of the Rs1,400 crore Mahalaxmi Temple Development Plan, the first phase of conservation works of Rs144 crore are being carried out at the moment. Fifteen years ago, a non-heating floor was installed on the outer premises of the temple so that the devotees would not face inconvenience. However, as this flooring was not suitable for the temple architecture, a decision was made to remove the flooring and lay new stone tiles of 9-10 inches.On Monday, the tiles adjacent to the Garud Mandap were removed. At this time, one stone step was unearthed. After carefully digging further, three more steps were unearthed, of which two steps have intricate stone carvings on them.Shivraj Naikwade, secretary of the PMDS, said, "We have informed the archaeological department about the discovered steps and proposed that they be excavated down to 3ft. New floors can be laid there to prevent them from sinking underground again and to expose the original construction buried in the soil."Meanwhile, PMDS officials also informed that the height of the Garud Mandap will be increased by 7 inches to provide more space for sunrays to enter the temple and make enhance the ‘Kirnotsav' phenomenon of the Goddess Mahalaxmi temple.