Rajya Sabha MP Maharaj Sanajaoba from Manipur has urgently called for the central government’s intervention to preserve the historic Vishnu Temple located in Bishnupur district during the parliamentary Zero Hour. This 15th-century shrine, often referred to as the Brick Temple, is regarded as one of the most significant Vishnu temples in the state of Manipur and was established during the reign of King Kiyamba, between 1467 and 1508 AD. Historical accounts reveal that the temple’s construction was inspired by a Vishnu emblem given to Kiyamba by the King of Upper Burma, which symbolizes the cultural and diplomatic relationship between the two regions.
The temple, currently listed as a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), is characterized by its unique brick-and-lime architecture, reminiscent of a traditional Bengali hut. Its modest sanctum measures approximately 2 metres by 2 metres and features a corbelled roof that showcases an amalgamation of Bengali and Burmese architectural styles.
Sanajaoba highlighted the lack of proper maintenance for this culturally significant site, urging the ASI to enhance conservation efforts by appointing a permanent caretaker, a chowkidar, and a gardener. He also advocated for the temple to be promoted as a tourist destination to encourage public engagement with Manipuri cultural heritage. In his plea, Sanajaoba described the shrine as an essential part of the history of Vaishnavism in Manipur, prompting him to request immediate actions from the Government of India to protect and rejuvenate this historical monument.
