【Central Indian temple that inspired Parliament lies in neglect】
An eighth century temple in Madhya Pradesh which bears a striking resemblance to the Parliament House has been lying in a state of utter neglect for a number of years.
Located in the non-descript Mitawali village of Morena district, the magnificent circular structure lies in a radius of 170 feet. The temple, dedicated to Hindu God, Lord Shiva, has figurines of 64 demigoddesses engraved on the circular inner wall. It also has 64 rooms, each with a 'Shivlingam'- Shiva's phallic symbol.
Archaeologists opine that the holy structure could have inspired the architects of Parliament House in New Delhi.
"The structures of Indian Parliament House and Mitawali temple are strikingly similar. It seems that the architects drew inspiration from this temple in designing and building the Parliament House," said Ameen Khan, a local archaeologist.
The Parliament building, designed by renowned architects Sir Edwin Lutyens and Sir Herbert Baker, was constructed in 1927, 20 years before India's independence in 1947. The building has been highly appreciated for its design across the world .It is touted to be among one of the world's best architectural wonders.
But the temple, which the archaeologists and locals in Mitawali believe might have inspired the magnificent building, is in a state of dilapidation.
The Archaeological Survey of India, the autonomous body in-charge of India's historical sites has only deputed a caretaker at the temple premises. Absence of any concerted renovation work is affecting the entire structure, especially the sculptures on the temple wall.
"This is the same temple that has inspired New Delhi's Parliament House. But no one takes care of such an important structure. Officials just come here and leave but don't do anything," says Rajaram, a local resident.
Rajaram adds that a number of "Shivlingams" have been stolen from the temple as the caretaker is rarely present at the temple premises.
Archaeologists claim that the temple was a seat of Vedic and astrological studies in the olden days. (ANI)