The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has reached a major milestone in the structural conservation of the Laxmi Narasimha Temple in Nuggehalli, Karnataka. During the removal of centuries-old soot and later-period plaster from the northern exterior wall, restorers uncovered a series of pristine soapstone carvings representing the Dashavatara (ten incarnations of Vishnu) that had been hidden from view for over 200 years.
The restoration project, which began in late 2025, utilizes non-invasive chemical cleaning and traditional lime-mortar strengthening to preserve the delicate Hoysala-style filigree work. Experts believe these newly revealed panels are some of the most detailed examples of 12th-century craftsmanship in the Hassan district, showcasing the pinnacle of medieval South Indian temple architecture.