Idols found at Keezhadi kept unprotected at Madurai museum

When people enter the Gandhi Museum they would notice several sculptures and inscriptions lying without any protection on their left-hand side. When inquired, sources claim that they were little cared for by the officials.

More than 60 idols ranging from the 8th to the 19th C are present outside the museum. The oldest idol is that of Varaki of 8th C. Some rare goddess idols are also present. An inscription dated 1298 of King Kulasekara Pandiyan also lies among the neglected group. 

A local tourist, Balu, from Nagamalai Pudukottai, claimed that the idols have been left unprotected for long. As they have been exposed to rain and shine for long there is every possibility for severe damage. They are in a high state of neglect without a roof over them. The government must act in haste and allot funds to take care of the idols, claimed Balu.

Renowned Archeologist, Thavasimuthu, claimed that idols are the repository of History. As they date back to centuries, they are useful to learn about the lifestyle of the people who lived during that era. If the idols are not protected they would soon be damaged beyond recognition. Understanding their importance, officials should take steps to protect them, demanded Thavasimuthu. 

When the curator of the Government Museum, Madurai, Periyasamy, was asked about the condition of the idols he claimed that an expert team from Chennai is responsible in maintaining the idols present inside and outside the museum. The officials at Madurai had little role in the maintenance claimed Periyasamy. He also claimed, in a rather lethargic tone, that large temples constructed several hundreds of years before are in good conditions and similarly these idols would also stand the test of times.