AYODHYA: For three decades, artisans diligently chipping away at marble in the Ramjanmabhoomi Nirmaan Karyashala has been the most captivating picture of the temple movement in Ayodhya. But soon, the clank of chisel will cease at the workshop to make way for hi-tech machines at the Ramjanmabhoomi construction site to expedite carving and polishing with more finesse and grandeur. And these ubiquitous artisans, mostly from Gujarat who were relentless in their endeavour even when hope ebbed for temple crusaders, are set to become history.
Temple Trust office-bearers told TOI that the construction committee has set a stiff deadline and deployment of machines was inevitable to ensure speed. “Marble carvings have to be completed in two years and the artisans, though flag-bearers of the temple, cannot deliver as quickly,” said Prakash Gupta, office in charge of Ram Mandir Trust. Talking to TOI, Anubhai Sompura, who supervises work at the karyashala, said, “Carving and cutting of marble has been halted. Only stones are being cleaned now.”