5-century-old temple in ruins

A Shib mandir (temple) in Bogra over 500-year-old is on the verge of collapse due to lack of maintenance and renovation. 

The temple still bearing the signature of past artistic designs is in Anchalai area of Shibganj upazila in the district.

The once exquisite structure is now in shambles as no restoration has been done.

The mandir, located 25 kilometers to the north of the district town, is believed to have been built during the reign of Emperor Sher Shah Suri or before his time.

Although time and nature have damaged most of the terracotta plaques on the temple walls, their shape and structure still bear authenticity of the heritage they are part of.

The roof of the Shib mandir is inwardly concave with a thickness of 2 feet, and the temple stands 20 feet high. Cracks have developed in the walls. Weeds are growing all over the structure. 

According to locals, Hindu devotees are coming to the temple even though the structure has become hazardous. They added that if the temple is not restored, a heritage site would be lost.

Locals request everyone to come forward for renovating the temple.

With the help of the devotees in the area, reform work is going on, which is insufficient.

At present the temple is closed. If the temple can be renovated, the architectural monument will be protected from destruction, locals also said.

Nikhil Chakraborty, president of the mandir committee said that no fund has been sanctioned for the repair of the temple since he was elected. 

Bipul Chanra, general secretary of the committee, said the committee can repair the temple if the government comes forward and grants necessary funds.

When contacted, Razia Sultana, the custodian in charge of the Mahasthan Museum in Bogra said she will visit the mandir next Tuesday and steps will be taken then.