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Kaleshwar Temple Complex, Indore, India
The Kaleshwar Temple. 
Kaleshwar Temple Complex with the sacred Narmada River in the background. 
Original medieval retaining walls collapsed due to river flooding. 
Holkar Palace in Maheshwar. |
SACRED SITE The mighty Narmada River has been a Hindu pilgrimage destination since the beginning of time and memory. The thousand-mile walk takes place over a period of three years, three months, and three days. One of the most Sacred Sites along this route of spiritual quest is the 12th Century Kaleshwar Temple, which is centered within fortified battlements on the northern shore of the river in the old Princely State of Indore. GOAL The Landmarks Foundation has committed to supporting the restoration of the Temple and reviving the ancient Dharmashala (pilgrims rest-house), so that pilgrims can stay in its precincts to offer their prayers to the Lord Shiva. In reviving its original purpose, the Dharmashala will provide shelter, cooking, and bathing facilities to over 50,000 pilgrims each year at no cost to them. ACTION The battlements and Temple Complex will be restored to their original beauty and function, and the fallen retaining wall replaced. Because labor in India is so inexpensive, the entire cost of the 20,000 square foot project will not exceed $90,000. As the Temple Complex is a part of the bigger plan for the rejuvenation of Maheshwar by Richard Holkar, the Prince of Indore he will, in gratitude to individuals contributing more than $5,000, invite them to tour Indore and be his guest at his 18th Century palace-home at the Ahilya Fort in Maheshwar, a short distance from the Kaleshwar Temple. Please contact the Landmarks Foundation for more information regarding making a donation and arranging a tour. samgreen@landmarksfoundation.org |