The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has completed the first phase of restoration on an 11th-century temple in Odisha’s Cuttack district, revealing a secret acoustic chamber located directly behind the primary deity's pedestal. The chamber was found to be lined with hollow ceramic vessels of varying sizes, specifically designed to amplify the low-frequency vibrations of Vedic chanting.
Architectural historians suggest that this 'Sonic Sanctum' allowed priests to create a surround-sound effect during secret tantric rituals. The restoration also involved the delicate cleaning of sand-covered friezes that depict early forms of Odissi dance, providing new insights into the cultural life of the Bhauma-Kara dynasty before the rise of the Ganga kings.