Bhubaneswar, June 26 -- By Ashutosh Mishra

Bhubaneswar: Odisha's temple architecture is the most important reminder of its glorious past. Temples with intricate carvings and great miniature works are scattered across the state. Old Bhubaneswar houses some of these architectural marvels located mostly in its narrow lanes and by-lanes. The sad part, however, is that we have utterly failed to preserve this heritage. Most of these monuments lie in neglect.

Take the case the 7th century Swarnajaleswar temple. It could have been much better maintained and showcased to the outside world. The temple compound is still unkempt by modern standards. No wonder few tourists venture into the premises. But the carvings on its walls sing the glory of a by...