Relevance: Art & Culture / UNESCO (GS-1) • Source: Indian Express, ASI

Chhattisgarh Seeks UNESCO Status for Sirpur Archaeological Site

Chhattisgarh is upgrading the Sirpur archaeological site—a 5th–12th century religious and urban settlement—to seek UNESCO World Heritage Site status. The revamp includes digital exhibits, guided pathways, and improved heritage management.

About the Sirpur Complex: History, Religion & Architecture

• Discovery: First identified in 1872 by Alexander Cunningham; major excavations from the 1950s onwards.
• Religious diversity: Site contains 22 Shiva temples, 5 Vishnu temples, 10 Buddhist viharas, and 3 Jain viharas—showing strong syncretic traditions.
• Urban heritage: Part of ancient Dakshina Kosala, Sirpur flourished under the Panduvanshi and later Somavanshi rulers.

Key monuments:

• Lakshmana Temple (7th century): Panchayatana style, intricate brick-and-stone work.
• Surang Tila complex: Multi-shrine structure accessed via a dramatic 37-step flight, built on a high terrace.
• Large monasteries, assembly halls, stupas, and a 6th-century marketplace reflect Sirpur’s role as a major religious and commercial hub.

Geography: Located on the Mahanadi river, adding to its historical urban value.

Conservation Efforts (Govt & ASI Initiatives)

UPSC Prelims Practice Question

Q. Sirpur in Chhattisgarh is known for:

1. Multi-religious monuments of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain traditions
2. The Panchayatana-style Lakshmana Temple
3. Being located on the banks of the Mahanadi
4. Gupta-era rock-cut architecture

Correct Answer Options:
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 1 and 4
(c) 2 and 3
(d) All of the above