Every corner of India has monuments that stand as testimony to its rich heritage. Monuments that go back thousands of years. One such treasure trove of history is Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A historical town where every wall, every pillar echoes of that long lost glory. Conserving sites like Hampi is a real herculean task. The recent case of vandalism in Hampi has undoubtedly left people shaken, but this is not a first.

Incidents of damage being done to ancient sites by tourists have always been a serious concern, and this video containing a group of young men seen pushing down a historical pillar at Hampi captures the magnitude of the problem perfectly. If you have missed out, you can watch the video here.

While the country reels under this shameful episode, it is never too late to turn over a new leaf.Despite countless challenges, organizations like ASI and INTACH continue to work undeterred for the protection of such monuments.

These structures were made to last and even after braving a million perils, they are still here. They can continue to do so for the generations to come only if we join hands and take up the task of safeguarding these marvels. We can do our bit by vowing to be diligent and responsible tourists. Even small steps go a long way.