The wax figures of a Sikh constable (left) along with his British boss and a Chinese comrade are seen at the Shanghai Public Security Museum on Ruijin Road S. The Sikhs were referred to as Hongtou A San by the locals because of their red turbans.

The temple has survived the passage of time. However, preservation is still by no means easy.

"Funds are a big problem - to restore it needs a large amount of money, including a big part for the relocation of the current residents," says the museum official.

"Many other factors have also to be taken into account before we even apply for government aid for its restoration as a heritage structure, such as its historic value, economic value and international appeal.

"Our restoration of the old Ohel Moishe Synagogue on Changyang Road has been a huge success.

"It has not only recorded the history of Jewish refugees in Shanghai during World War II, but it has drawn visitors from home and abroad.

"It is on the itinerary of every Jewish traveler," she says.

The temple is currently home to six or seven families who have lived there for over three decades, which makes further preservation and restoration "almost impossible," says the official.

An elderly resident living in the temple is aware of its historical significance. "I know it was called Yindu Miao. I have been living here for more than 30 years."

She says living conditions are "really bad."

"The rooms are only separated from each other by a thin cardboard. There is no privacy here. I would love to move out and relocate elsewhere."

(Shanghai Daily August 12, 2009)