Stone Pillars in a Mandapam
Dimensions – 7ft X 1ft X 1ft (HXLXB)
Number of Pillars - 64
Age of the Monument ≈ 250yrs
A private property, this stone monument is located alongside the river Thamirabharani in the scenic village of Papanasam situated 60kms from Thirunelveli, Tamilnadu.
Stone Pillars in a Mandapam
Dimensions – 7ft X 1ft X 1ft (HXLXB)
Number of Pillars - 64
Age of the Monument ≈ 250yrs
Decorative low-relief carvings were found on all the pillars but the beauty of these carvings were marred by the presence of layers of lime wash over them.
Stone Pillars in a Mandapam
Dimensions – 7ft X 1ft X 1ft (HXLXB)
Number of Pillars - 64
Age of the Monument ≈ 250yrs
Removal of the superficial layers of lime wash exposed the numerous coats below. It was found that the successive application of lime wash built up its thickness to more than 5mm.
Stone Pillars in a Mandapam
Dimensions – 7ft X 1ft X 1ft (HXLXB)
Number of Pillars - 64
Age of the Monument ≈ 250yrs
This monument was previously being used as a Marriage Hall which necessitated the conversion of a section into a make-shift kitchen. Burning of wood covered the entire area in a thick deposit of soot and other particulate matter.
Stone Pillars in a Mandapam
Dimensions – 7ft X 1ft X 1ft (HXLXB)
Number of Pillars - 64
Age of the Monument ≈ 250yrs
Cleaning the pillars using both mechanical means (brushes and tools) and chemical treatment (solvents) was undertaken so that the pillar was completely free of lime wash.
Stone Pillars in a Mandapam
Dimensions – 7ft X 1ft X 1ft (HXLXB)
Number of Pillars - 64
Age of the Monument ≈ 250yrs
The decorative details, on pillars that were completely obscured, were revealed in full glory which added to the aesthetic charm of the entire complex.
Stone Pillars in a Mandapam
Dimensions – 7ft X 1ft X 1ft (HXLXB)
Number of Pillars - 64
Age of the Monument ≈ 250yrs
The monument was suitably modified and adapted by the present owners so that this venue could be appropriately utilized by pilgrims visiting Papanasam. From an uninspiring often-seen stone monument, it became a sacred place befitting Lord Papavinasa Eeshwarar who is brought to this monument once a year for sacred ablutions with the waters of river Thamirabharani.
