Urgent Call to Save the Historic Jaypal Devalaya in Nalbari
Preserving a Heritage Site
Jaypal Devalaya of Dingdingi village in Nalbari
NALBARI, April 17: The Jaypal Devalaya, a significant historical temple located in Dingdingi village within the Barbhag revenue circle of Nalbari district, is facing severe threats of deterioration. Originally constructed under the auspices of King Jaipal from the Pala dynasty and later reconstructed during the Ahom dynasty, this temple is now at risk due to a lack of government intervention.
Despite the absence of official protection for this cultural landmark, local residents have taken it upon themselves to safeguard the temple by erecting bamboo barriers. The community has been actively involved in maintaining this heritage site, conducting regular worship rituals to honor the temple's significance.
Dingdingi, a quaint village in the Barbhag Revenue Circle, is home to this royal temple, which is now in a precarious state. The villagers express their frustration over the government's indifference towards preserving their historical monument.
Significant portions of the temple's Manikut have been lost over time, buried beneath the earth due to the devastating earthquakes of 1897 and 1950. Currently, the main Manikut, where devotees worship Lord Shiva, is situated underground, and the primary Shiva Linga remains submerged during the rainy season.
Situated along the banks of the Pagladia River, the Jaypal Devalaya was reconstructed during the reign of Ahom king Shiva Singha. However, as the surrounding land has gradually risen, only a fraction of the temple remains visible above ground. If this situation continues without intervention, the historic Manikut may soon vanish entirely. Immediate action from the government is essential to ensure its preservation.