Tourism as a Medium for Social and Economic Regeneration: A Case of Small Historic Town Morena, Madhya Pradesh

Indian subcontinent has diverse typology of cultural and religious heritage; one of its eminent typology is temple. These ancient temples of past stood against the force of natural calamities as well as religious dominance. One such cluster of Hindu temples lies embedded in the valleys of Chambal River in Morena, Madhya Pradesh. Region’s difficult geography mainly its ravines sustained its monumental heritage from the invaders and could thus prevent its further devastation. These temples representing the legacy of Kachhapagta period and Pratihara period stand still even today. Their architecture reflects technological skill of Indian craftsman and master builders. In the early 20th century the area was infested by dacoits, which prevented the monuments from harmful effects of urbanisation but lowered the socio-economic status of the settlements evolving nearby. This paper aims to highlight challenges of conservation of ancient religious structures in this area to serve as a tool for regeneration of these small towns. The religious tourism circuit thus developed will enhance the social and economic conditions of the population, with active participation of local government and residing population to serve as a major stakeholder. With the rising concern for heritage these monuments will also exhibit the grandeur of Hindu temples in the Chambal valley globally.