6th-Century Swapneswar Mahadev Temple Declared Protected Monument by ASI

6th-Century Swapneswar Mahadev Temple Declared Protected Monument by ASI

In a significant move to preserve Odisha’s heritage, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has declared the ancient Swapneswar Mahadev Temple in Punjiama village, Banapur block of Khordha district, as a protected monument.

This follows a gazette notification issued by the Government of India on July 3, officially recognizing the temple for its deep historical and cultural value.

According to ASI sources, the Swapneswar temple is a rare relic of Odisha’s ancient architectural and spiritual heritage and is believed to have been established during the Shailodbhava dynasty in the 6th century.

Nestled in the Niladri Prasad Panchayat area, the temple has long been admired by historians and locals alike for its enduring link to Odisha’s classical era. The ASI’s declaration represents the culmination of long-standing efforts to secure national recognition and protection for the site.

Welcoming the announcement, Odisha’s Law, Works, and Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan for their pivotal roles in the initiative. He called it a “moment of pride for Odia identity.” He also emphasized that the recognition will not only help preserve the temple for future generations but also enhance Odisha’s presence on India’s cultural heritage map.

The Swapneswar Temple had first come under the spotlight in 1977–78 when senior BJP leader Biswabhusan Harichandan, then serving as Odisha’s Culture Minister, entrusted its care to the state archaeology department.

Despite that early attention, the temple gradually fell into neglect due to the lack of sustained conservation and restoration efforts. It was only in the past decade, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, that renewed focus was brought to the site. The ASI undertook detailed field evaluations and heritage assessments, ultimately setting in motion the process to grant the temple national-level protection.