Patna: At the confluence of the Ganga and Gandak rivers at Konhara Ghat in Hajipur, an 18th-century shrine with a distinctive architectural legacy is in need of urgent attention. The Nepali Temple, also known as Chhawani Temple, has drawn renewed focus for its conservation.Built in the traditional pagoda style, the temple is popularly described as the ‘mini Khajuraho of Bihar’ for its intricate wooden carvings. The craftsmanship reflects the architectural traditions of its period and makes the structure an important part of Vaishali’s cultural heritage.Years of neglect, however, have taken a toll on the temple, resulting in structural deterioration. The adjoining historic Pushkarini pond has also suffered neglect. The need to preserve both has gained attention following a recent visit by a study team of the Bihar legislative assembly’s Estimates Committee along with the Vaishali DM.Art, culture and youth minister Pramod Kumar said the govt was committed to protecting the state’s heritage sites. “We will not leave any stone unturned for the development and restoration of heritage sites, right from Kaimur to Vaishali,” he said, adding that conservation of the country’s cultural heritage was part of the broader ‘panch pran’ vision.The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (Intach), Patna chapter, has been consistently advocating the conservation and restoration of the temple. Bhairav Lal Das, convener of the chapter, said the temple deserved immediate attention as an important example of Bihar’s architectural heritage.“Restoration will not only extend the life of the structure but also give a major boost to tourism in the region,” Das said.With Vaishali already attracting visitors for its Buddhist and ancient historical sites, conservation of the Nepali Temple and Pushkarini pond could add another significant destination to the region’s heritage circuit.
