Hyderabad: The Telangana government is working to restore a temple heritage site in the historic Old City. The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), along with the revenue and endowment departments, are taking action against illegal structures on the 2,000-year-old Prachina Gopala Krishna Kshetra in Misrigunj near Ghazi Banda.
Yamuna Pathak, a Temple Conservation Activist and president of the Vishva Hindu Raksha Parishad National Women’s Wing, has been leading efforts to save the temple. The Hans India and hmtv have highlighted the neglect of Hindu temples, important parts of the city’s heritage, through various reports over the years.
The temple’s story is significant as it has been forgotten by many. Pathak said, “I brought attention to this issue, and the details uncovered were startling.”
Discussions with celebrities, former officials, and religious experts have shown how the temple’s importance diminished both in United Andhra Pradesh and after Telangana was formed. Pathak mentioned that many petitions were sent to local and state authorities. People from the Old City, regardless of faith, have joined the cause, sharing personal stories and evidence from the Nizam’s era about the temple.
Frustrated with the lack of coordination, Pathak went on a hunger strike, broadcasted live on hmtv, which lasted nine hours. This act prompted officials from the Endowment Department to promise swift action, leading her to end the strike.
Petitions to the GHMC commissioner have called for the removal of illegal structures. Court rulings from civil to the State High Court have confirmed temple ownership of the lands. Appeals were also sent to the Additional Collector and the HYDRAA Commissioner to protect temple properties and ensure justice.
Pathak launched a campaign, conducting a padayatra, to raise awareness and support for the temple. Thousands gathered, chanting the Vishnu Sahasranama, praying for the temple’s liberation. Social media helped spread the campaign further.
These efforts led the state government to act against the illegal encroachers. A joint survey was conducted with police support and officials from the temple endowment department, GHMC, and revenue. The temple area in Shri Prachina Gopala Krishna Mandir covers around 4,224 square yards, with specific municipality numbers.
Reports revealed illegal constructions of 73 square yards, 100 square yards, and 127 square yards in different house numbers. Recently, two houses and two shops were seized by GHMC, Revenue, and Endowment Department officials, with police help, due to these illegal activities at Shri Prachina Gopala Krishna Mandir.
