Global Heritage Networkghn.globalheritagefund.com/uploads/documents/document_1948.pdf · Bishnupur,...

Global Heritage Network

Site Conservation Assessment (SCA)

Date: 28/12/2010

Site Name: Jor Bangla, Bishnupur, Bankura, West Bengal

Country: India

GHN Site Monitor’s Name: Dr. S.S. Biswas and Goutami Bhattacharya

Institution: Centre for Research in Art, Archaeology and Palaeo-Environment.

Profession: Research Academic

Affiliations: Indira Gandhi National Open University.

Dates of visit: 22nd – 27th November 2010.

World heritage Status: National Heritage.

Annual Visitations and Revenues:

National Tourism Income (% of total): Not Available

Entrance Fee Revenue: Rs. 480835/- (Financial year 2009-10)

Concession Revenues: Not Available

Approximate number of visitors annually:

National: 84747 (Financial year 2009-10) Foreign: 571 (Financial year 2009-10)

Growth from 2000: 64% 2005: 25%

Site Historical Archives:

Bishnupur, the ancient Mallabhum (Lat 23° 05' N Long 87° 19' E), a sub

divisional headquarters of Bankura district in West Bengal, is a celebrated temple town of

West Bengal for a large number of brick built temples representing all varieties of

structural forms of medieval Bengali styles of temple architecture. These temples were

built by the Malla rulers from AD 695 onwards. Though many of the temples were in a

state of deterioration the continuous conservation and preservation carried out by the

Archaeological Survey of India has restored the lost glory and grandeur of these temples.

There are at present approximately 30 temples around Bishnupur of which 20 temles

have been taken u by the Archaeological Survey of India for protection.

The Jor-Bangla also known as the Ksheta-Raya temple is famous for its structural

configuration and exclusive terracotta sculptures. As per the evidence of the dilapidated

inscriptions, the temple is said to have been erected by Raghunatha Singha in 1655 AD.

The structural pattern is quite unique in itself. It resembles the union of two hut-like

structures (known as Bangla style), having two sloping roofs combined to form a single

architecture surmounted with a char-chala tower (having sloping roofs on four sides).

The temple stands on an almost square platform facing south. The temple is exquisitely

decorated with terracotta ornamentations on the façade of the porch and on the other three

sides. The interior of the temple is bereft on any kind of ornamentation except a stucco

figure of six-handed Sri Chaitanya placed on a high pedestal against the back wall of the

inner chamber. The image is no longer worshipped.

The decorations on the walls of the exterior are arranged in panels of horizontal,

vertical and curved bands filled with plaques put up in rows. The main façade of the

temple is decorated with panels divided by means of octagonal pilasters rising to the full

height on either sides of the three arched entrances, while above the entrance also exists

such pilasters, less that half the height of the others, which are used to form panels

arranged in groups of four. The raised wall bands are found decorated with foliate

ornaments, flowers, scroll works or lozenge-shaped ornaments shown on medallions or

diamond-shaped patterns. Pilasters are partly octagonal in shape which is found richly

decorated with figures of drummers and dancers. The panels depict a wide variety of

subjects from the epics- Ramayana and Mahabharata, episodes of Krishna-lila, depiction

of semi-divine beings like kinnaras (half-human and half-animal) and gandharvas

(celestial beings), and panels depicting secular scenes like hunting, scenes from social life

etc. The panels vibrate with the widest extravagance showing movements and actions in a

dynamic way. For the richness of ornamental decoration and the finest quality of

workmanship the temple of Jor-Bangla is regarded as the finest among the temples of

Bishnupur.

GHN Site Conservation Assessment (SCA)


Entry Fee (Domestic): Rs. 10 (International): Rs. 250

Charge for Camera: Rs. 25 Video: Rs. 25

(However, prior permission in case of use of tripod is required from the Archaeological

Survey of India)

Guides available: No

Quality of Guides: Not Applicable

Languages Available: Not Applicable

Literature Available: Yes

Quality: A variety of literatures on the history, culture, archaeology, tradition associated

with Bishnupur Group of Temples in general are available to cater to the demands of

different sections of visitors. In addition to these books/ articles etc., a Guide book of the

Bishnupur Temples published by the Archaeological Survey of India is also available.

The guide book published is available in three languages- English, Hindi and Bengali.

Custodians: Archaeological Survey of India

Quality: The Archaeological Survey of India has been carrying out a commendable work

with respect of the conservation and preservation of the Jor Bangla Temple.

Supervisory Staff: Superintending Archaeologist, Archaeological Survey of India,

Kolkata Circle. At the local level is the Conservation Assistant, Gr.-I, Archaeological

Survey of India.

Quality: The work at the local level has so far been good, the ambience and the setting of

the monument has been greatly improved and is appreciated by the visitors. However,

there is lack of Visitor amenities like drinking water, toilets, guides, etc.



General Condition

The temple is structurally sound with no major immediate threat to its stability. However,

the terracotta brick ornamentation has been lost to the vagaries of time from some places.

This aspect requires conservation intervention.

Conservation or Restoration work completed or in progress:

Conservation works that are regularly carried out at the site are in the nature of pointing,

underpinning and re-terracing works, replacing of damaged bricks with new bricks,

cleaning and removal of biological growth etc.

Condition of setting and environment:

While the immediate surrounding of the Jor Bangla temple has been beautified by laying

out a garden but the condition beyond it is far from satisfactory. Even the approach road

to the temple is not in a good condition. The surrounding area has a lot of wild vegetation

which hampers the ambience of the monument.

Threats to the integrity and authenticity of the property:

Major threats to the integrity and authenticity of the Temple come from local population

growth and modernization of Bishnupur town.

Signage leading to and inside the property:

A Cultural Notice Board and a Protection Notice Board have been put up by the

Archaeological Survey of India in front of the Temple premises. There are no signages

inside the Temple area.

Integrity and Authenticity of the Site according to its Universal Values?:

Efforts are being made by the Archaeological Survey of India to maintain the integrity

and authenticity of the Temple.

Site values: Are these values readily communicated to the public?

Yes



Recommendations:

Movement to and from the Jor Bangla Temple is not visitor friendly. While one may get

conveyance from the railway station or even from the town centre the return journey is

not so easy. It is difficult to find vehicles while coming back from the Temple. Since the

tourist inflow is not very regular getting conveyance for the return journey is that much

more difficult. It is advisable to book one’s conveyance for the entire day so that one may

visit the different temples at ease. Furthermore, the roads, rather the lanes in the interior

are not well maintained and not suitable for heavy vehicles. Since the Jor Bangle Temple

is located at one end of the town the lanes are very narrow. Development of Visitor

amenities like toilets, drinking water facilities, eateries, kiosks, guides etc are need of the

hour. Broad and metalled roads coupled with easy conveyance are necessary for

increasing the visitor movement in the area. Cleanliness around the site has to be taken up

at the earliest.

Photography and Mapping:

Please use GPS camera when possible and use photos to identify on satellite imagery

current threats, issues and positive developments at the site. Use detailed captions for all

photos.

Estimation of your Personal Experience (scale of 0-10 points): 6

Additional comments:

The immediate vicinity of the Temple has to be developed. A point that emerged from the

study of the visitor profile at the Temple is that a large percentage of the tourists come

from within the state of West Bengal. The site has not been properly focused among the

national and international tourists. The less number of visitors is the main reason for the

lack of good roads and even the basic visitor amenities at the site.


Quantitative Assessment: site Conservation and Responsible Development


Date:

Area of Assessment Scoring Comments

1. Site Conservation Plan - There is no Conservation Plan for the site,

conservation measures are taken up as an when

required.

2. Site Conservation and

Maintenance

6 Attention has to be given for maintaining the

local setting and environment.

3. Site Integrity

7 Efforts are being made to maintain the integrity

of the site.

4. Intactness (lack of

encroachment)

8 Regular inspection has resulted in

minimization of encroachment.

5. Authenticity

9 The authenticity of the site has been

maintained.

6. Management

- There is no management plan for the site.

7. Community Involvement

- The upkeep and maintenance is solely the

responsibility of the ASI with no private

involvement.

8.Responsible Development

- The region has not been developed in a tourist

destination.

9. Living Heritage

9 The Jor Bangla Temple is the embodiment of

local architecture and art of Bengal. The

terracotta art so exquisitely composed on the

Temple walls are still being practiced in the

town. In fact the town of Bishnupur is noted

for its terracotta craftsmanship. There are

numerous artisan families who earn their

livelihood by practicing this art form.

10. Visitor Experience

6 There can never be complete Visitor

Experience until and unless an Interpretation

Centre of some kind is developed in the area.

Total Average Score: 45


Qualitative Assessment:


Site Background:

Statement of Outstanding Universal Value:

The Jor Bangla Temple is unique as a statement of architectural style in which the

rudimentary domestic village hutment was transformed into a grand temple style. It

resembles the union of two hut-like structures (known as Bangla style), having two

sloping roofs combined to form a single architecture surmounted with a char-chala tower

(having sloping roofs on four sides). This architectural style is the happy union of

Bengali architectural style with imported Islamic elements like the dome and arch along

side local elements such as the curved cornice, octagonal minarets and brick

ornamentation. Adding to this unique architectural style is the equally unrivalled rich

terracotta ornamentation. The intricate decoration covers all its walls. The temple is

unique for the quality and subject-matter of the terracotta panels that cover all visible

surfaces.

The terracotta art as reflected in the Temple is a living heritage among the local

populace. Apart from the temples, pottery, handicraft items and even jewellery are made

in this very traditional material. The craftsmen derive their inspiration from the glorious

history of kings, soldiers and wars. The secular and religious scenes that are found in the

terracotta panels are even to this day replicated on the silk sarees, another flourishing

local industry.

Boundaries and Buffer Zone:

As the site is within the purview of the AMASR (Amendment and Validation)

Act, 2010 apart from the protected monument and its immediate vicinity there is a

prohibited area which measures 100m all around the protected area. Apart from this there

is a regulated area of an additional 200m around the prohibited area.

Statement of Authenticity and Integrity:

The authenticity and the integrity of the site has so far been maintained by the

Archaeological Survey of India.

Threats:

The threat to the Temple is from the growth of local population and pressure of

modernization and urban growth.

Management Organization and Level of Support:

Overall management is made at the local, regional and national levels of the


Current Protection Level:

The actual legal and contractual protection is maintained through the Ancient

Monument and Archaeological Sites and Remains (Amendment and Validation) Act,

2010.

Management Plans:

There are no management plans for the site.

Funding

Archaeological Survey of India, Govt. of India provides funds for the

conservation and maintenance of the monument and the financial allotments is regulated

by the Director General, Archaeological Survey of India, Government of India, New

Delhi.

Staffing Levels (Human Resources):

The staff at the local sub-Circle office comprises of one Conservation Assistant

and fourteen Monument Attendants.

Sources of Expertise and Training in Conservation and Management Techniques

The sources are provided by the Government of India through the Archaeological

Survey of India

Scientific Studies

No Scientific studies have been carried out on the Temple.

Education and Awareness building

By celebrating World Heritage Day (18th April) and observing World Heritage

Week (19th November to 25th November). Photo exhibitions, drawing and essay writing

competitions are organized for this purpose.

Training and Capacity Building: Transmitting Heritage to Future Generations

By celebrating World Heritage Day (18th April) and observing World Heritage

Week (19th November to 25th November).

Factors affecting the Property

Population growth and developmental pressures.

Governance and management

Governance and management of the core area is the sole responsibility of the


Agencies Responsible

Archaeological Survey of India through its local offices at Kolkata and sub- circle

office at Bishnupur.

Latest Events and Current Situation

The Kolkata Circle of the ASI currently does not have any events or programmes

planned in respect of the Jor Bangla Temple.

State of Site Planning:

There are no plans for the management or conservation of the site at present.

Scientific conservation:

Apart from the periodical pointing and cleaning nothing of considerable

importance has been done on the Temple recently.

Site Infrastructure:

Visitor amenities at the site are lacking.

Community Development

The local community has developed a strong living heritage through the

development of craft activities like terracotta and textiles which draw inspiration from the

Temple art and architecture.

Private Sector Involvement:

There is no private sector involvement in the Temple.

Top Priorities for Conservation

The development of the surrounding ambience should be the immediate priority

of the concerned officials.


Boundaries and Buffer Zones:

As the site is within the purview of the AMASR (Amendment and Validation)

Act, 2010 apart from the protected monument and its immediate vicinity there is a

prohibited area which measures 100m all around the protected area. Apart from this there

is a regulated area of an additional 200m around the prohibited area. This total area of

300m around the protected monument/ area act as the buffer zone for the Monument. The

protected monument and the prohibited and regulated area all come under the purview of

the act.

Statement of Authenticity/ Integrity

The authenticity and integrity of the site has been maintained.

Management Systems:

Has a World Heritage Site steering group or similar management committee been

set up to guide the Management of the Site?

No.

How could the overall management system of the site best be described?

The overall management system of the site comes under the purview of protective

legislation.

Please indicate which level or levels of public authority are primarily involved with

the management of the site.

The core and buffer areas are maintained by the ASI.

Are the current management systems effective and/ or sufficient?

There is no Management Plan for the site.

Is there special national or regional legislation for World Heritage site?

India does not have any specific legislation for the World Heritage sites, but the

sites of national importance are administered under the AMASR Act (Amendment Act,

2010). The World heritage sites as such are also governed under the said act.

Does the site have special legislation or administrative arrangements (such as

specific spatial planning and zoning requirements)?

No.

Have there been any significant changes in the ownership, legal status, contractual

or traditional protective measures for the site since the time of inscription?

No.

Are the current protection arrangements effective and/ or sufficient?

Yes, the present legislative and administrative arrangements are adequate.

Funding

Is site funding sufficient?

Yes

Has extra funding been drawn through the World Heritage status?

Not Applicable.

Does the site have sufficient funding available for the adequate management of the

site?

Yes.


Has the site received financial assistance?

Government

National Yes

Regional

International

Bi-lateral co-operation

Other

Staffing Levels (Human Resources)

Are adequate professional staff available across the following disciplines?

Conservation- Yes.

Management- No.

Promotion- No.

Interpretation- No.

Trained and professional hands are required in the fields of Management, Promotion and

Interpretation. Not much effort has been made to highlight the tourist potential of the site,

both nationally as well as internationally.

Management Techniques

Is training available for home-owners at the site?

No.

Is on-site training available for all stakeholders (i.e., homeowners, others)?

No.

Are there visitor statistics available for the site?

Yes.

Are these facilities adequate?

There are no Visitor amenities at the site.

Is there a tourism/ visitor management plan for the site?

No.

What different methodologies are used for counting visitors?

Counting the entry tickets is the only method of counting visitors.

As tourism pressure poses a growing threat to World heritage properties, what is

the tourism/visitor management plan to manage growing visitation?

The region does not have any threat from tourism pressure as it does not receive

tourists in large numbers.

Is signage adequate?

There is only one Cultural Notice Board outside the gate of temple.

Is there awareness of the Heritage property among various groups?

Yes, efforts are made by the ASI, Kolkata Circle to raise heritage awareness

among the different groups through various programmes having target audiences.

Development Pressures

Modernization and local population growth affects the environment of the

monument.

Visitor/tourism pressure?

The site does not attract many visitors.

Traffic pressure?

No.

Threat of fires for sites with wooden architecture?

Not Applicable.

Are monitoring systems adequate?

Yes.

Is training required in the use of relevant modern technology?

Yes.


Has the site been subject of (a) Reactive Monitoring Report(s) to UNESCO World

Heritage Committee?

No.

What do you consider to be the main benefits of World Heritage status?

Not Applicable.

Are there weaknesses in management, such as the absence of coordinators,

management plans and strategies?

There is no management plan for the site.

Have good examples of management plans for similar Heritage properties been

distributed?

No.

Is there guidebook for the site?

Yes. The guidebook for the site has been published by the ASI.

Have information channels been identified for reaching relevant groups at local,

national and international levels?

Yes, periodic discussions/ workshops are held inside the country at different

archaeological sites and attended by concerned officers. Their opinions/suggestions are

considered while executing various conservation measures.

Have mechanisms been established for effective communication between site,

national and UNESCO levels?

Yes.

Has information material encouraging sustainable tourism, such as a ‘Code of

Conduct’ been developed?

No.

Is there a website for the Heritage site(s) focusing on conservation and community

development?

No.

Disaster Preparedness

Which natural disasters threaten the site’s integrity or may compromise its values?

The site does not have any threat of natural disasters as of now.

How can local communities reach the full potential of their heritage, both tangible

and intangible?

As already mentioned above terracotta art and textile industry both have

flourished in the backdrop of the Temple art and architecture of the region. They draw

heavily from the subject-matter of the panels on the walls of the Temple.

How can the sites disaster risk be reduced?

Not Applicable.

Which traditional skills must be maintained essential to enhance conservation and

prevention and mitigation of disasters?

Local terracotta craftsmanship.

Which gradual cumulative processes and factors, such as pollution, tourism, or

urban encroachment are affecting the authenticity and integrity of the site?

Modernization and local population have the potential of causing long-term harm

to the monument.

How can we strengthen support at the regional, national and local institutions for

reducing natural and man-made risks at the Heritage site?

A full time agency to co-ordinate all the Government Organizations and Non-

Government Organizations is necessary. Preparedness and personnel training; Mitigation

of risk; Prompt and effective response to disasters (both natural and man-made);

Emergency measures and immediate treatments as post-disaster action at the site will go

a long way in minimizing loss.

General view of the Jor-Bangla Temple, Bishnupur.

Close-up of the Jor-Bangla Temple, Bishnupur.

Cultural Notice Board and Protection Notice Board at the gate of the Temple.

General view of the Temple from south.

Close up of the characteristic sloping roofs of Temple.

View of the main entrance of Jor-Bangla Temple.

Close-up of the arched main entrance of Jor-Bangla Temple.

View of the Temple from the northern side.

Close-up of the superstructure, showing the union of two huts and the char-chala roof on the top of the Temple.

Close-up of the sloping roofs of the Temple, it is exact replica of a village hut.

View of the joining of two huts in the centre of the Temple.

The image of the principal deity, Sri-Chaitanya, in terracotta, appliquéd to the wall of the sanctum-sanctorium

The entire ceiling and the adjoining walls of the interior of the porch is covered with terracotta plaques.

The inscription on the main entrance of the Temple, recording the name of the king and the date of constructon.

Terracotta panel depicting mythical animals and warriors.

Friezes of elephants followed by depiction of mythical creatures.

Close-up of the panels adorning the pillars of the arched entrances.

Panel depicting the battle scene.

Depiction of Kartikeya, riding on his mount the peacock.

Panel depicting an episode from the epic Mahabharata.

Panel depicting Krishna-lila scene.

Terracotta plaque depicting dancers.

Panel depicting classical Indian dance postures.

The damaged portion of the Temple restored through plastering.

The broken and damaged brick plaques replaced by new unornamented terracotta slabs.

Replaced plain terracotta panels in place of the damaged/ lost original panels.

Broken and damaged brick offsets of the Temple.

Relaying of the platform on which the Temple stands.

Light arrangements within the Temple premises, they are an eye-sore for a visitor.

Layout of the garden all around the Temple.

The condition of road leading up to the Jor-Bangla Temple.

The growth of wild vegetation along the road leading to the Temple.

The condition of road and the garbage dump to the right side of the road leading to the Temple.

Local terracotta craft items on sale near the Temple.

Shop selling local terracotta craft products in the vicinity of the Temple.

The famous Bankura Horse, adopted as a symbol of Bengal Handicraft industry.

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