NELLORE: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has given its nod for the restoration of the historic Padala Mandapam at Alipiri, Tirupati, a heritage structure dating back to the Vijayanagara period.
The Lord Venkateswara Charitable and Religious Trust, Pune, will undertake the restoration of Padala Mandapam under the guidance of ASI.
According to ASI officials, an 8-step scientific process will be followed for the restoration of Padala Mandapam. It includes documentation, drawing preparation, HD photo and video recording, careful dismantling, systematic stacking, foundation reinforcement, resetting, and water-tightening using traditional methods.
Restoration to enhance heritage value of Mandapam
ASI experts have designed a suitable foundation using traditional techniques for the resetting process. All architectural members, including roof slabs, beams, walls and floors, will be assigned documentation numbers, and their original orientations are marked with paint. Key levels, such as floor, beam, and roof, will be referenced on adjacent permanent structures using temporary benchmarks.
K Munirathnam Reddy, Director (Epigraphy), ASI, Mysuru, said, “This is one of the most significant restoration initiatives in Tirupati as the Padala Mandapam stands as a fine example of Vijayanagara architectural excellence. Our goal is to restore it with complete historical accuracy using traditional methods and scientific techniques.”
He explained that all structural members will be removed carefully with scaffolding, and propping to prevent damage. The removed members will be systematically stacked, and a layout will be prepared showing the position of each element.
“Each architectural member will be documented and preserved before reconstruction. We will use traditional craftsmanship, and modern digital tools like AutoCAD and photogrammetry to ensure restoration is authentic and durable. We are committed to preserving the original stones as far as possible. Broken pieces will be mended instead of replaced, and new stones will be used only when originals are missing. The aim is to conserve the historic structure, and not to recreate it,” he said.
The restored Padala Mandapam is expected to enhance the heritage value of the Alipiri foothills, the spiritual gateway for pilgrims trekking to Tirumala temple.
